Can Folic Acid Really Help With Hair Growth? Experts Reveal The Truth
When it comes to growing out your hair, let’s face it – we’ll try anything to speed up the process. From scalp massaging to weekly hair masks and hair growth serums, the market is flooded with solutions claiming to deliver stronger, longer, and thicker hair.
But amidst the noise, one ingredient has emerged as a surprising contender in the quest for longer lengths: folic acid. Yes, the pregnancy-approved supplement that’s now taking the haircare world by storm, but does it really work? And is it safe to be taking folic acid long-term?
Below, we spoke to Dr Margo Gkini, consultant dermatologist and hair loss expert, to find out everything you need to know…
What is folic acid?
‘Folic acid is a synthetic form of vitamin B9, which is used in supplements and in artificially fortified foods,’ explains Dr Gkini. ‘It’s advised that adults should consume 400 micrograms of folic acid a day, but due to a decreased intake of vegetables, fruits or nuts, people may not get enough folate through their diet and may need supplementation with folic acid.’
While most women are familiar with folic acid as a prenatal supplement (it’s typically recommended three months before trying to conceive and during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy), its potential benefits for hair growth have brought it firmly into the beauty spotlight.
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Can folic acid help with hair growth?
‘During the last few years, folic acid has gained significant attention as a potential supplement for androgenetic alopecia as well as for other types of hair loss,’ says Dr Gkini. ‘Lack of folic acid may have an impact on hair growth due to the role of B9 in various cellular processes, such as DNA synthesis and healthy cell production.’
Sounds promising, right? But there’s a catch. ‘There is not enough evidence to suggest regular use of folic acid supplements in patients who are not folic acid deficient has a significant effect on hair growth or hair quality overall,’ Dr Gkini adds. ‘Some studies have explored its potential in inflammatory hair conditions like alopecia areata, but the results have been largely contradictory.’
In short, unless you’re deficient in folic acid, it might not deliver the transformative results you’re hoping for. The bottom line? Approach with caution and manage expectations.
Are there any adverse side effects of taking folic acid?
As with any supplement, it’s important to proceed with care. ‘Although supplements are generally considered safe by many people, taking significant amounts of folic acid isn’t advised,’ warns Dr Gkini. ‘Adverse events can include stomach upset, nausea, diarrhoea, irritability, confusion, behaviour changes, skin reactions, and more.’
The best course of action? Speak to your doctor. ‘If you’re concerned about hair loss, consult with a healthcare professional who can run blood tests to check for deficiencies that may be contributing to the problem,’ advises Dr Gkini.
For those simply looking to accelerate growth, she suggests exploring targeted hair growth supplements instead. And if you’re still curious about what works, don’t miss our feature on the 10 best ways to promote faster growing hair.
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