Which Hair Supplements
Actually Work?
We analyzed thousands of clinical studies on hair growth supplements. Every claim on HairCited is backed by peer-reviewed research from PubMed.
Hair loss and thinning affect millions worldwide. Dozens of supplements claim to help — but which ones have real clinical evidence? We analyze peer-reviewed studies from PubMed to grade every ingredient on a transparent A–D scale, so you can make informed decisions backed by science.
Featured Ingredients
Biotin
vitaminCofactor for carboxylase enzymes essential for keratin synthesis and fatty acid metabolism in hair follicles.
Finasteride
pharmaceuticalType II 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor reducing serum and scalp DHT by approximately 70%.
Iron
mineralEssential for hemoglobin synthesis; iron deficiency impairs oxygen delivery to hair follicle matrix cells.
Minoxidil
pharmaceuticalVasodilator that opens potassium channels, increasing blood flow to follicles and prolonging anagen phase.
Nutrafol
multi_ingredientMulti-target approach: ashwagandha (stress), saw palmetto (DHT), curcumin (inflammation), tocotrienols (oxidation).
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
fatty_acidAnti-inflammatory eicosanoids reduce perifollicular inflammation; DHA/EPA support scalp lipid barrier.
Top Conditions
Alopecia Areata
2% lifetime risk
Androgenetic Alopecia
50% of men by age 50, 25% of women by age 50
Female Pattern Hair Loss
40% of women by age 50
Telogen Effluvium
Second most common cause of hair loss
Recent Evidence Updates
Popular Comparisons
Latest Research
J Clin Sleep Med · 2017
Clinical Practice Guideline for the Pharmacologic Treatment of Chronic Insomnia in Adults: An American Academy of Sleep Medicine Clinical Practice Guideline.
Nature · 2010
Genome-wide association study in alopecia areata implicates both innate and adaptive immunity.
Annu Rev Nutr · 2004
Secular trends in dietary intake in the United States.
J Am Acad Dermatol · 1998
Finasteride in the treatment of men with androgenetic alopecia. Finasteride Male Pattern Hair Loss Study Group.
Endocrine · 2017
Androgenetic alopecia: a review.
J Am Acad Dermatol · 2002
A randomized clinical trial of 5% topical minoxidil versus 2% topical minoxidil and placebo in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in men.
Guides & Resources
Managing Age-Related Hair Thinning: Supplement Options
Age-related hair thinning is a nearly universal experience, yet it remains one of the least discussed forms of hair change compared to conditions like androgenetic …
lifestyleHow Stress Affects Your Hair: Evidence-Based Management
The link between stress and hair loss has been recognized for centuries, but only in recent decades has science begun to elucidate the specific biological …
lifestyleAnti-Inflammatory Supplements for Scalp Health
Inflammation is increasingly recognized as a contributing factor in multiple forms of hair loss, from the perifollicular microinflammation that accompanies androgenetic alopecia to the overt …
Evidence Grading System
Every supplement claim on this site is graded on an A–D scale based on peer-reviewed clinical research from PubMed. Our algorithm evaluates study design (RCTs rank highest), consistency of results, sample sizes, and the overall body of evidence. No manufacturer sponsorship influences our grades.
Multiple randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or meta-analyses with consistent positive results and large sample sizes.
At least one RCT with mostly consistent results across studies. Evidence suggests benefit but more research may be needed.
Small studies or observational data with some positive signals. Promising but insufficient for strong recommendations.
In vitro studies, case reports, or pilot studies only. Early-stage research that requires clinical validation.
How It Works
No ads. No sponsored rankings. Just science.
Search PubMed
We search PubMed for every clinical study on supplement ingredients.
Extract Findings
We extract the key findings — sample sizes, study types, and results.
Grade A through F
We grade the evidence like a school report card — from A (strong) to F (negative).
Clear Answer
You get a clear answer in seconds — does this supplement actually work?
Cited Health Network
Explore evidence-based research across multiple health domains.
Evidence-based sleep supplement reviews. Every claim backed by peer-reviewed res
GutCitedEvidence-based gut health supplement reviews. Every claim about probiotics, preb
ImmuneCitedEvidence-based immune supplement reviews. Every claim about vitamin C, zinc, eld
BrainCitedEvidence-based brain and cognitive supplement reviews. Every claim about nootrop
WeightCitedEvidence-based weight management supplement reviews. Every claim about green tea
HeartCitedEvidence-based cardiovascular supplement reviews. Every claim about omega-3, CoQ
SkinCitedEvidence-based skin health supplement reviews. Every claim about collagen, vitam
FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.