Biotin is the most heavily marketed hair supplement, yet it's the least evidence-backed unless you're actually deficient. Nutrients like iron, vitamin D and zinc have stronger links to hair health — and fixing a genuine shortfall matters more than any trendy pill.

Why is biotin everywhere if it barely works?

Biotin dominates hair marketing because true biotin deficiency does cause hair loss — so the logic sounds airtight. But here's the catch: deficiency is rare in people who eat a normal diet, and there's little evidence that taking extra biotin grows hair in people who aren't lacking it. Worse, high-dose biotin can interfere with certain lab tests, including thyroid and heart markers, which is a genuine reason for caution.

Which nutrients actually matter for hair?

Think of your hair follicles as high-maintenance tenants — they're among the first to suffer when the household runs short on key resources. Iron (measured via ferritin), vitamin D and zinc have the most consistent links to hair health, and low levels are frequently associated with hair shedding in women. Iron in particular is a common culprit, since many menstruating women run low without realising. Vitamin C helps iron absorption, which is why it often appears alongside it.

How do you know if you're deficient?

You don't guess — you test. A simple blood panel can check ferritin, vitamin D, thyroid function and more. This matters because supplementing blindly is at best a waste of money and at worst can cause its own problems (too much of some minerals is harmful). If your hair is shedding noticeably, getting these checked is the single most useful step you can take.

Where do hair supplements fit, then?

They're most useful for topping up nutrients you're genuinely low in, and for delivering supporting botanicals as part of good overall nutrition. Our Pomegranate Hair Vitality is designed to support hair alongside a balanced diet, not to override the fundamentals of iron, protein and overall health. Pairing it with enough dietary protein — the literal building block of hair — makes more sense than chasing biotin alone.

What else affects hair besides nutrition?

Plenty. Stress, rapid weight loss, hormonal shifts (including postpartum and perimenopause), thyroid issues and genetics all play major roles. This is why hair loss can be complex, and why a persistent problem is worth reviewing with a doctor or dermatologist rather than self-treating indefinitely.

Frequently asked questions

Will biotin hurt me if I take it anyway?

For most people it's low-risk, but it can distort important blood test results. Tell your doctor if you take it, and stop before any lab work.

How long until hair supplements show results?

Hair grows slowly — often a centimetre a month — so any genuine benefit typically takes three to six months of consistency to become visible. Patience is part of the process.

Is diet enough on its own?

Often, yes. A varied diet with enough protein, iron and micronutrients covers most people's needs. Supplements help fill gaps, not replace good eating.

This article is general education, not medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for concerns about your health.