Does fish oil help hair growth?
Fish oil is rich in beneficial nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants which promote hair growth and density. This article will cover the concern “Does fish oil help hair growth?”, its benefits, how to use it, whether it can help with hair loss or not, etc.
Does fish oil help hair growth?
Yes, Fish oil is believed to promote the overall health of hair. It’s a commonly used dietary supplement rich in omega-3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients. These fatty acids are involved in regulating the body’s natural functions.
Fish oil capsules or supplements may contain omega-3 fatty acids along with antioxidants. These ingredients act synergistically together, and both should be added to the supplements or capsules to increase hair growth.
What does fish oil contain?
Fish oil is extracted from fish like Tuna, Mackerel, Sardines, and Salmon. It’s an essential supplement as it’s high in Omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. These fatty acids promote healthy functioning of the brain, heart, skin, and eyes.
According to research, it’s discovered that there are two main omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Both reduce the risk of heart diseases, reduce cholesterol levels and inflammations, and help in age-related degenerative diseases.
However, omega-3 fatty acids are also involved in triggering hair growth, promoting hair strength, nourishing hair follicles, reducing dandruff, and improving scalp health. These fatty acids can also delay the signs of aging by improving hair and skin conditions.
What are the benefits of fish oil for hair?
Here is the list of fish oil benefits for hair:
Enhanced growth cycle
Fish oil enhances the hair growth cycle over time and prevents greying of hair. Considerable changes are observed after taking fish oil capsules for 3 months.
Hair growth
Fish oil promotes hair growth by increasing the blood supply to the hair follicles which in turn enhances the nutrients supply to hairs.
Hair density
Fish oil improves hair density because of omega-3 fatty acids and minimizes the symptoms of baldness.
Thickness of hair shafts
Fish oil works for hair by increasing the thickness of hair shafts, which gives the appearance of more hair on the head. Intake of fish oil supplements for longer duration increases the thickness of hair shafts.
Improved Shine
An increase in nutrient supply improves hair health, and hair looks lustrous and shiny.
Scalp health
Fish oil capsules regulate the amount of oil production by the scalp. The balanced production of scalp oil reduces the inflammation and irritation of the scalp.
Prevents infections
Fish oil reduces hair loss by preventing scalp and hair follicle infections.
Reduced Dandruff
Fish oil regulates the production of scalp oil and reduces itchy scalp and dandruff.
Dry scalp nourishment
Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids which nourish the dry and flaky scalp. It makes hair stronger and healthier.
Reduces hair loss
Fish oil capsules prevent hair loss and baldness. They also repair hair damaged due to the use of chemicals or heating appliances.
How to use fish oil for hair growth?
Different methods are known for the use of fish oil, some of them are mentioned below:
- Diet: You can improve hair growth by adding fish like tuna, and salmon to your diet as they are a rich source of fish oil.
- Supplements: There are fish oil capsules available in the market which are easier and more pleasant access to fish oil.
- Topical application: Fish oil can be directly applied to the scalp, skin, and hair roots. But keep in mind, it has a bad odor.
How much fish oil is considered safe for diet?
The amount of fish oil a person can intake depends on the health status and age of that person. However, one can take up to 5000 mg of Omega-3 supplements daily. Fish oil products nearly provide 120-375 mg of DHA and 180-465 mg of EPA per capsule.
What are the side effects of using fish oil?
The possible side effects of using fish oil are as follows:
- Nausea
- Nose bleed
- Diarrhea
- Indigestion
- Heartburn
- Fishy taste
- Bad-smelling breath and sweat
- Bleeding
Fish oil prevents blood clotting, so it should be avoided in people with the following conditions:
- Patients taking anti-blood-clotting medicines.
- Patients having bleeding disorders.
- People with high blood pressure.
- Women on contraceptive pills.
When to contact a doctor?
The person should immediately contact the doctor in case of the following conditions:
- Unexplained hair loss
- Unexplained weight gain
- Irregular or no periods
- Acne
- Oily skin or hair
- Allergies
- Cystic fibrosis
- Diabetes
- Osteoporosis
- Atopic eczema
Conclusion
Today, we covered the article “Does fish oil help hair growth?”, its benefits, how to use it, whether it can help with hair loss or not, etc. From the above discussion, it’s clear that fish oil helps in hair growth because of the omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants incorporated in it.
References
https://www.healthline.com/health/fish-oil-for-hair#benefits
https://www.everydayhealth.com/skin-beauty/what-are-the-benefits-of-fish-oil-for-your-hair/
