Hair Skin And Nails Vitamin Reviews: Answering All Your Questions

Getting your hair, skin, and nails in optimal shape can be challenging. With so many vitamins and supplements on the market claiming to support hair, skin, and nail health, it can be difficult to know where to start.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Look for a vitamin containing nutrients like biotin, collagen, keratin, vitamin C, zinc, and silica. Opt for a well-reviewed product from a reputable brand. Take consistently for at least 2-3 months to see results.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide hair, skin, and nail vitamin reviews to help you determine what ingredients to look for, what to avoid, and the top products on the market.

What to Look for in a Hair, Skin, and Nail Vitamin

Biotin

Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is a water-soluble nutrient that plays an important role in the health and growth of hair, skin, and nails. Many studies have found that biotin supplements can help improve hair thickness, reduce hair shedding, and promote healthy hair growth.

According to the experts, the recommended daily intake of biotin is 30 mcg, however studies have used dosages ranging from 2,500 mcg to 10,000 mcg with positive effects on hair growth. When shopping for a hair, skin and nail vitamin, look for one that contains at least 2,500 mcg of biotin per serving.

Collagen

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and is a major component of skin, hair, and nails. As we age, collagen production slows down leading to wrinkles, brittle nails and hair loss. Taking a collagen supplement can help reduce these age-related symptoms by providing the raw materials for building healthy skin, hair and nails.

Look for a hair, skin and nail vitamin that contains hydrolyzed collagen or collagen peptides to maximize absorption. The clinically effective dosage is around 2.5-10 grams per day.

Keratin

Keratin is a fibrous structural protein that makes up over 90% of hair. Taking a keratin supplement can help strengthen hair, reduce breakage, and improve overall hair health. However, not all keratin supplements are created equal.

Look for hydrolyzed keratin rather than keratin amino acids, as studies show the hydrolyzed form is more bioavailable. Aim for around 500-1000 mg of hydrolyzed keratin per day for improved hair strength and growth.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an essential antioxidant that plays a key role in collagen production. Since collagen provides structure to skin and hair, getting enough vitamin C can improve the health and appearance of skin and locks. Look for hair vitamins that contain at least 60 mg of vitamin C per serving.

For additional antioxidant support, seek out formulas with vitamin E, selenium and zinc which work synergistically with vitamin C.

Zinc

Zinc is a mineral involved in protein synthesis, immune function, and growth and repair of body tissues. Studies show that zinc deficiency can lead to hair loss and skin problems. Adequate zinc intake has been associated with healthy hair growth.

Look for a hair, skin and nail vitamin with around 25-50 mg of zinc per serving. Zinc should be balanced with 1-2 mg of copper for optimal absorption and benefits.

Silica

Silica is a trace mineral that plays an essential role in collagen formation and connective tissue health. Horsetail extract is one excellent source of silica that has been used for centuries to support skin, hair, nails and bone health.

Look for hair vitamins with at least 100-200 mg of silica from horsetail extract. Silica works best when taken with vitamin C, vitamin D, calcium and magnesium.

What to Avoid in Hair, Skin, and Nail Vitamins

Unsafe Ingredients

When shopping for hair, skin and nail supplements, it’s important to read the ingredient list carefully. Some concerning ingredients to watch out for include:

• Synthetic colors – FD&C Red No. 40, Blue No. 1, etc. These artificial dyes provide no health benefit and may cause allergic reactions in some people.
• Artificial sweeteners – Aspartame, saccharin, sucralose. Studies link them to a variety of health issues like headaches, digestive problems, and even cancer.
• Hydrogenated oils – These unhealthy trans fats are linked to inflammation, heart disease, diabetes, and more.
• Talc – This mineral has been linked to lung issues and ovarian cancer when used in body care products.

The best hair, skin and nail supplements stick to natural, whole food ingredients free of synthetic additives.

Proprietary Blends

Many supplements use “proprietary blends” which combine multiple ingredients into a unique formula. While this sounds intriguing, there are a few problems with proprietary blends:

• You don’t know how much of each ingredient you’re getting. It may be mostly filler with only trace amounts of key active ingredients.
• Without seeing the amounts, it’s impossible to judge if the product is effective or safe.
• The blend contents can change without notice, making it inconsistent.

For optimal transparency, look for supplements that disclose the full amount of each ingredient on the label. This allows you to better evaluate the formula.

Overuse of Biotin

Many hair and nail vitamins pack in megadoses of biotin, a B vitamin that supports keratin production. While biotin is beneficial, getting too much can cause side effects like:

• Skin rashes
• Digestive upset
• Kidney damage
• Interference with medical tests like those checking thyroid hormone levels

The recommended daily intake for biotin is only 30 mcg. Amounts up to 10,000 mcg (10 mg) are likely safe for most people. But some supplements provide 20,000 mcg or more per serving, which may be excessive.

According to a 2021 study, biotin doses over 10 mg/day provide no added hair or nail benefits and come with increased risk of side effects (source). For best results without safety concerns, choose supplements with no more than 5000 mcg biotin.

Reviews of the Top 5 Hair, Skin, and Nail Vitamins

Vitafusion Gorgeous Hair, Skin & Nails

Vitafusion Gorgeous Hair, Skin & Nails gummies provide a delicious way to get your daily dose of beauty nutrients. These raspberry lemonade flavored gummies contain Biotin, Vitamins C and E to support healthy hair, skin and nails^[1].

With 5000mcg of Biotin, this supplement aims to reduce hair thinning and brittle nails while making skin radiant. The affordable price point, tasty flavor and easy to take format make Vitafusion gummies a top choice.

Nature’s Bounty Hair, Skin & Nails

Nature’s Bounty Hair, Skin & Nails formula contains key nutrients like Vitamin C, Biotin, and Calcium that work synergistically to nourish hair and nails from within^[2]. With 3000mcg of Biotin plus amino acids, this supplement aims to reduce hair breakage by 89.9% and increase nail thickness by 81.8% according to a clinical study.

The once daily softgel format provides easy absorption. Nature’s Bounty is a reputable brand known for high quality ingredients at affordable prices.

Nutrafol Women’s Balance

Nutrafol Women’s Balance takes a more holistic approach with a blend of botanicals, vitamins, and minerals to target the potential underlying factors of poor hair growth^[3]. Key ingredients like Ashwagandha and Saw Palmetto aim to balance stress hormones and DHT levels that impact hair thinning.

Women love the hormone and stress support this formula provides in addition to the hair and scalp benefits. However, the hefty price tag of $88 per month is a drawback for some consumers.

Hum Nutrition Red Carpet

Hum Nutrition’s Red Carpet formula puts a beauty boosting spin on classic multivitamins. In addition to hair and nail supporting nutrients like Biotin, Zinc and Selenium, this supplement also packs skin enhancing Vitamin A, C, E and Collagen^[4].

The modified release caplets provide steady nutrient absorption throughout the day. Hum’s tasty wildberry mint flavor and stylish, Instagramable packaging appeal to the beauty junkie in many women. For under $30 per month, Red Carpet is an affordable way to elevate your beauty routine.

Neocell Super Collagen

Neocell Super Collagen provides hydrolyzed Collagen Type 1 & 3 peptides to support the body’s natural Collagen production, the most abundant protein in hair, skin and nails^[5]. This unflavored collagen powder effortlessly mixes into coffee, smoothies or water.

Neocell aims to increase skin hydration by 12% and nail growth by 178% with daily use. Though pricier than traditional hair vitamins at $35 for a one month supply, Neocell Super Collagen stands out for its collagen-boosting abilities.

Who Should Take a Hair, Skin, and Nail Vitamin?

Hair, skin, and nail vitamins can benefit a wide range of people looking to improve the health and appearance of their hair, skin, and nails. Here’s a look at some of the key groups who may want to consider taking these supplements:

Those with Hair Loss or Thinning Hair

One of the most common reasons people take hair, skin, and nail vitamins is to help prevent hair loss and promote hair growth. These vitamins often contain nutrients like biotin, vitamin C, iron, zinc, and vitamin B complex to nourish hair follicles and support healthy hair.

According to the experts at MayoClinic.com, biotin supplements show promise for improving thinning hair and hair loss associated with biotin deficiency. However, there’s insufficient evidence that they help with other causes of hair loss.

Those with Dry, Brittle Hair

Hair vitamins can also benefit those with dry, damaged, or brittle hair. Key nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, biotin, and zinc hydrates hair, increases shine, and repairs split ends when taken regularly.

A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology showed significant improvements in hair shine, elasticity, and overall scalp health after supplementing with omega-3s and antioxidants like vitamin E.

Those with Weak or Brittle Nails

Many of the same nutrients that support strong, healthy hair also benefit the nails. Biotin is particularly important, as deficiencies have been linked to brittle, easily broken nails.

One analysis in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology found that taking 2.5 mg of biotin per day significantly increased nail plate thickness by 25% after just 5-7 months.

Those with Dry, Dull Skin

Skin can become dry and dull looking for many reasons, including sun damage, harsh products, and nutrient deficiencies. Taking a hair, skin, and nail vitamin containing antioxidants like vitamins C and E can help hydrate the skin and restore radiance.

According to a study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, supplementing older women with antioxidant vitamins C and E for 4 months improved elasticity and moisture retention in the skin.

Those Looking to Slow Signs of Aging

Antioxidants like vitamin C, amino acids like collagen, and vitamins A, E, and B3 all provide anti-aging benefits for the skin, hair, and nails. They counteract oxidative damage, boost collagen production, and support tissue regeneration.

A review in Nutrients concluded that vitamin C is highly effective at reducing wrinkles and improving skin texture with continued use.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Supplement

Read Reviews

Before choosing a hair, skin and nail supplement, be sure to read reviews from credible sources. Look at consumer review sites like ConsumerLab.com to see actual customer experiences and lab test results on ingredients and quality.

Check if the supplements have certifications from organizations like NSF International or USP that verify quality manufacturing processes. Reviews will give you an idea of what to realistically expect from different products.

Take Consistently

These supplements need to build up in your system to reach optimal levels, so consistency is key. Set a daily reminder to take your supplement at the same time each day. Putting the bottle where you’ll see it, like next to your toothbrush, can help you remember more easily.

Missing days here and there means you won’t get the best results. Most people see benefits after taking supplements consistently for 2-3 months, though some formulas work more quickly.

Use Other Skin & Hair Care

While supplements make sure you’re getting enough internal nutrition, also using targeted external products provides comprehensive care. Using a good moisturizing lotion, anti-aging serums with antioxidants, and hair masks with strengthening proteins can enhance the effects of supplements.

Combining great nutrition inside and outside is the best way to get glowing, healthy hair and skin.

See a Doctor If No Results

If you don’t see any difference in your hair, skin or nails after taking a supplement consistently for several months, schedule an appointment with your doctor. There may be an underlying health issue causing nutrient deficiencies or damage that a supplement alone can’t counteract.

For example, thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases, diabetes, and gastrointestinal absorption issues can contribute to hair loss. Getting the right treatment can help supplements be more effective.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hair, skin, and nail vitamins can help give your beauty routine a boost. Look for key ingredients like biotin, collagen, keratin and nutrients like zinc and vitamin C. Read reviews carefully, take consistently for at least 2-3 months, and pair with other skin and hair care for optimal results.

By choosing a high-quality supplement with the right nutrients for you and using it properly, you’re likely to see improvements in the health and appearance of your hair, skin, and nails over time. Just be sure to speak with your doctor if you don’t notice results, as an underlying condition could be the cause.