Niacin for Hair Growth: How to Use This Vitamin for Healthy Hair

If you're looking for a way to promote healthy hair growth, you may want to consider using niacin.

This vitamin is often recommended by dermatologists and hair professionals alike as a way to improve the health of your hair.

In this article, we will discuss how niacin can help promote hair growth and offer some tips on how to use this vitamin for optimal results.

What is Niacin

Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin that is typically found in foods like meat, poultry, fish, and eggs. It is also available as a dietary supplement.

Niacin is a vital nutrient that helps your body convert food into energy, and it plays an important role in the health of your skin, hair, and nails.

It can also help reduce inflammation throughout the body. This vitamin may be used to treat a variety of medical conditions such as high cholesterol levels (hypercholesterolemia) and a deficiency of niacin (pellagra).

Niacin has been used for decades as a treatment for acne, eczema, psoriasis and other skin disorders.

How niacin can help promote hair growth

Niacin is believed to help promote hair growth in a few different ways.

Increases circulation to the scalp

For one, this vitamin is thought to help increase circulation to the scalp. This can help bring essential nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles, which may promote healthy hair growth.

Stimulates hair follicles

Additionally, it may stimulate the hair follicles and encourage them to grow new strands. This can help reduce hair thinning and loss.

Reduces inflammation

Niacin is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties. This means that it can help reduce inflammation in the scalp, which may lead to healthier hair growth.

Supports cell growth

Lastly, niacin supports cell growth in the body. This means that niacin may help promote healthy hair growth by encouraging the growth of new cells in your scalp and hair follicles.

How to use niacin for hair growth

There are several ways that you can incorporate niacin into your daily routine to help promote optimal hair health.

Take a niacin supplement

You may choose to take a vitamin B complex supplement that contains at least 50mg of niacin in order to reap the benefits this nutrient has to offer.

This vitamin is water-soluble, so it's best to take this supplement with a glass of water. It can be taken up to three times per day if needed.

Add niacin to your diet

If you prefer not to take a niacin supplement, there are many foods that contain this nutrient. You can try adding more niacin-rich foods to your diet, such as:

-Lean beef

-Turkey

-Fish (especially salmon, mackerel, and tuna)

-Poultry

-Eggs

-Peanuts

-Green peas

Apply a Niacin Mask

You can also use niacin to treat your hair. You can try making a niacin mask using the following ingredients:

-One egg yolk

-Two tablespoons of aloe vera gel or juice

-¼ cup milk (full fat, raw milk is best)

Combine all of these ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Apply the mask to your hair and allow it to sit for about 30 minutes before rinsing with cool water.

Try Niacin Shampoo

You can also try using a niacin shampoo, which may help promote healthy hair growth by reducing inflammation of the scalp and nourishing your roots with this nutrient.

These shampoos are available at most drugstores and online.

Dosage and side effects of niacin

When taking niacin, it is important to follow the dosage instructions on the supplement or prescription label.

It is best to start with a lower dose and increase gradually as needed.

Niacin can cause side effects like flushing, itching, and nausea. It can also lower blood sugar levels, so people with diabetes should be careful when taking this vitamin.

People with liver disease or gout should also avoid taking niacin.

Niacin may also interact with certain medications, so be sure to discuss any supplements you are taking with your doctor.

Common symptoms of niacin deficiency

Niacin deficiency can cause a number of symptoms, including:

-Fatigue

-Depression

-Memory problems

-Headaches

-Poor circulation

-Digestive problems

-Skin problems, such as red, scaly skin, skin lesions, and a rash called pellagra

-Muscle weakness

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, be sure to consult your doctor. They may perform a blood test to determine if you have low levels of niacin in the body.

FAQs

Can I take too much niacin?

Yes, it is possible to take too much niacin. Excessively high doses of niacin can cause skin flushing, itching, and headaches. It's important to follow the dosage recommendations on any supplement you take and consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

How long will it take for niacin to show results?

You should start to see a difference in the overall health and appearance of your hair after taking niacin for two weeks.

What if I don’t see any results after taking niacin?

If you do not see any results after taking niacin, it is possible that you are not deficient in this vitamin. You should speak with your doctor to determine whether you need to take a supplement for niacin or not.

What is the best time of day to take niacin for hair growth?

There is no best time of day to take niacin for hair growth. It is important to take niacin regularly, whether you are taking it in the morning, afternoon, or evening.

Can I still use my regular shampoo and conditioner while taking niacin?

Yes, you can continue using your regular shampoo and conditioner.

Can I use other vitamins for hair growth, in addition to niacin?

Yes, you can use other vitamins for hair growth along with niacin. It is important to follow the dosage recommendations on any supplement that you take and consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

The takeaway

If you're looking for a way to promote healthy hair growth, niacin may be a good option. This vitamin helps improve circulation to the scalp, supports the function of the sebaceous glands, and reduces inflammation.

You can try taking a niacin supplement, adding niacin-rich foods to your diet, or using a niacin mask or shampoo. Whichever route you choose, incorporating niacin into your hair care routine may help improve the health of your hair.