Hair Loss Awareness Month: 5 Ways to Use It to Your Advantage

As part of our Hair Loss Awareness Month coverage, we look at five effective ways to use this occasion to your advantage, for men and women.

Hair Loss Awareness Month takes place throughout August, and while raising awareness is important, it can also be a useful prompt to take a closer look at your own hair.

Perhaps you've noticed more hair in the shower recently. Maybe your parting is becoming wider, your hairline has started creeping backwards, or your hair simply doesn't feel as thick as it did a few years ago. Or perhaps hair loss isn't currently a major concern, but you'd like to keep your hair in the best possible condition as you get older.

Whatever your situation, August is a good time to assess where you are, learn a little more about hair loss and make a few sensible changes.

Here are five ways to make Hair Loss Awareness Month genuinely useful.

1. Understand Your Hair Loss

The best place to start is with the hair you have now.

Hair loss is an umbrella term covering numerous conditions, and understanding the difference between them is important. What works for one type of hair loss may have very little effect on another.

Androgenetic alopecia, better known as male or female pattern hair loss, is one of the most common forms. In men, this often appears as recession around the temples or thinning at the crown. Women are more likely to notice reduced density across the top of the scalp or a gradually widening parting.

There are plenty of other possibilities.

Periods of increased shedding can occur following illness, significant stress, rapid weight loss, nutritional deficiencies or major hormonal changes. Pregnancy and menopause can affect the hair cycle, while certain medications and medical conditions can also contribute to thinning.

Then there is the normal ageing process. Hair naturally changes over time, with individual strands often becoming finer and overall density gradually decreasing.

Use Hair Loss Awareness Month as an opportunity to take stock.

Look at photographs from a year or two ago. Check your hairline, temples, crown and parting under good lighting. Take a few photographs now so you have something objective to compare against in the future.

If your hair loss is sudden, severe, patchy, accompanied by scalp symptoms, or you simply can't explain why it's happening, speak to your GP, dermatologist or another suitably qualified professional rather than trying to diagnose it yourself.

Understanding the problem gives you a much better chance of choosing an appropriate solution.

2. Explore Hair Supplements and Nutritional Support

Not everybody experiencing thinning hair wants to immediately use medication.

Prescription and topical hair-loss treatments have an important place and can be effective for appropriate candidates, but they are not necessarily the first option everybody wants to explore. Some people prefer to begin with lifestyle changes and nutritional support, particularly when thinning is relatively mild or in its earlier stages.

This is where hair supplements can fit into a wider hair-care plan.

A good hair supplement isn't a magic pill, and we'd be wary of any brand claiming otherwise. Hair loss has too many potential causes for a supplement to solve every case.

What supplements can do is provide nutrients associated with the maintenance of normal, healthy hair, particularly where diet isn't consistently providing everything required.

We generally favour comprehensive formulas over products built around one fashionable ingredient.

HR23+ Hair Restoration Supplement is one example. The formula combines 23 ingredients and has been developed specifically for men and women experiencing thinning or weaker-looking hair. It is designed for long-term daily use and can be incorporated into a wider hair-care routine without requiring a prescription.

Other established specialist hair supplements are available too, including products from brands such as Viviscal and Nutrafol.

Whichever supplement you consider, look beyond the front of the bottle. Check the complete ingredient list, serving sizes, manufacturer information and how long the product is intended to be taken.

And give it time.

Hair grows slowly. Constantly switching between products every few weeks makes it almost impossible to determine whether anything is actually helping.

3. Look Out for Hair Loss Awareness Month Offers

This is one of the more practical benefits of Hair Loss Awareness Month.

Throughout August, hair-care companies, supplement brands, clinics and other businesses within the industry often run special promotions linked to the campaign.

If there is something you've already been considering, it can therefore be a good time to buy.

Look for discounts on things such as:

• Hair supplements

• Specialist shampoos and conditioners

• Hair serums and scalp treatments

• Hair-loss consultations

• Minoxidil products

• Microneedling devices

• Laser hair-growth devices

• Hair transplant consultations and procedures

The important distinction is between taking advantage of a discount on something useful and buying something simply because it has been discounted.

Don't allow a 20% or 30% saving to persuade you into buying a questionable hair-growth product you wouldn't otherwise consider.

Research the product first. Look at the active ingredients, evidence, independent reviews and long-term cost.

For products you already use regularly, however, an August promotion can be a sensible opportunity to stock up. This is particularly true for treatments and supplements that need to be used consistently for several months.

4. Do the Simple Things at Home — for Free

Not everything you do for your hair needs to come in a bottle.

Some of the most sensible changes cost absolutely nothing.

Start with how you treat your existing hair.

If you regularly pull your hair into very tight styles, ease the tension. Repeated pulling can put unnecessary stress on the hair and, over time, may contribute to traction-related hair loss.

Reduce excessive heat where possible. Hair straighteners, curling irons and very hot hair dryers don't usually cause genetic hair loss, but repeated damage can leave strands dry, brittle and more susceptible to breakage.

Be gentle with wet hair, too. Hair is more vulnerable to mechanical damage when wet, so aggressive towel drying and brushing can cause unnecessary breakage.

Then look beyond hair care itself.

Sleep matters. Stress matters. Exercise matters.

You don't need a perfect lifestyle to have good hair, but your hair is part of your body. The habits that support your general health tend to create a better foundation for healthy hair as well.

Another useful free habit is taking a photograph of your hair once a month.

Use the same room, lighting, hairstyle, angle and camera position each time. Hair changes slowly enough that looking in the mirror every morning can be misleading. Comparing consistent photographs after three or six months gives you a far better indication of whether your hair is actually changing.

5. Eat With Your Hair in Mind

You don't need an exotic "hair-growth diet".

A varied, balanced diet containing sufficient calories, protein, vitamins and minerals is a much better starting point.

Hair itself is largely made from a protein called keratin, so adequate protein intake is particularly important. Eggs, fish, poultry, lean meat, dairy products, beans, lentils, tofu, nuts and seeds can all contribute.

Oily fish, such as salmon, sardines and mackerel, provides protein alongside omega-3 fatty acids and other useful nutrients.

Eggs provide high-quality protein and several micronutrients, making them an easy addition to many diets.

Leafy green vegetables, including spinach and kale, provide folate and a range of vitamins and minerals.

Nuts and seeds provide healthy fats, protein and micronutrients. Pumpkin seeds are particularly interesting from a hair-health perspective and are easy to add to breakfast, salads or yoghurt.

Beans and lentils are useful sources of plant-based protein, iron and other nutrients, while colourful fruit and vegetables help provide the wider range of micronutrients your body needs.

Iron deserves particular attention because iron deficiency can be associated with hair shedding, especially in women. However, that doesn't mean everybody experiencing hair loss should immediately start taking high-dose iron supplements. Too much iron can be harmful, so suspected deficiency is something to discuss with a healthcare professional and, where appropriate, confirm with testing.

Extreme dieting is another potential problem.

Rapid weight loss, very low-calorie diets and inadequate protein intake can place stress on the body and may contribute to increased shedding several months later.

If you're trying to lose weight, aim for something sustainable rather than crash dieting.

Make Hair Loss Awareness Month Count

Hair Loss Awareness Month shouldn't simply be four weeks of talking about hair loss.

Use it as a reason to do something useful.

Work out whether your hair has actually changed. Learn about the type of hair loss you may be experiencing. Review your diet. Improve the way you treat your hair. Explore reputable supplements such as HR23+ if nutritional hair support appeals to you, and investigate established treatment options if your hair loss requires something more targeted.

And if the products or treatments you already want are discounted during August, there's nothing wrong with taking advantage of that too.

You don't need to completely overhaul your routine overnight.

Pick one or two sensible changes, stick with them, and monitor your hair over the coming months.

By the time the next Hair Loss Awareness Month comes around, you'll have something far more useful than another collection of hair-loss products in the bathroom cabinet.

You'll have a year's worth of evidence showing you what has — and hasn't — worked for your hair.

This article is intended for general information only and should not be considered medical advice. Sudden, severe, patchy or unexplained hair loss should be assessed by an appropriately qualified healthcare professional. Food supplements should not replace a varied, balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

12 Everyday Habits That Could Be Making Your Hair Thinner

Finding more hair than usual in your brush or noticing the shower plug filling up can be worrying. For many people, thinning hair seems to appear gradually rather than overnight, making it difficult to pinpoint exactly what's causing it.

While genetics remain the most common reason for hair loss, everyday lifestyle habits can also play an important role in the health of your hair. In some cases, small changes to your routine may help reduce excessive shedding and support healthier hair growth over time.

Here are twelve surprisingly common habits that could be contributing to thinning hair.

1. Not Knowing the Difference Between Normal Shedding and Hair Loss

Before assuming something is wrong, it's worth remembering that losing hair every day is completely normal.

Most people shed between 50 and 100 hairs daily as part of the natural hair growth cycle. New hairs are constantly replacing those that fall out.

The concern begins when shedding becomes noticeably heavier, your parting starts widening, your ponytail feels thinner, or bald patches begin to develop. If these changes persist for several months, it's worth investigating further.

2. Living With Constant Stress

Stress doesn't just affect your mood.

Significant emotional or physical stress can trigger a temporary condition called telogen effluvium, where a larger number of hair follicles enter the resting phase before shedding several months later.

Illness, surgery, bereavement, divorce, job pressures or prolonged anxiety can all contribute. The encouraging news is that stress-related hair loss is often reversible once the underlying cause improves.

3. Crash Dieting

Hair is not essential for survival, so when calorie intake drops dramatically, the body prioritises more important organs.

Rapid weight loss, extreme dieting and restrictive eating plans can reduce the nutrients available to growing hair follicles, sometimes leading to noticeable shedding a few months later.

Slow, sustainable weight loss is generally kinder to both your body and your hair.

4. Missing Key Nutrients

Hair follicles are among the most metabolically active structures in the body, meaning they require a steady supply of nutrients to function normally.

Deficiencies in iron, vitamin D, zinc, folate and certain B vitamins have all been associated with some forms of hair thinning. While supplements aren't necessary for everyone, identifying and correcting genuine deficiencies can make a significant difference.

If you suspect a nutritional deficiency, speak to your GP before starting high-dose supplementation.

5. Not Eating Enough Protein

Hair is made primarily from keratin, a structural protein.

People following restrictive diets or simply not consuming enough protein may notice slower hair growth or increased shedding over time.

Including good-quality protein sources throughout the day can help provide the building blocks needed for healthy hair production.

6. Smoking

Smoking affects far more than your lungs.

Research suggests it may reduce blood flow to hair follicles, increase oxidative stress and contribute to premature ageing throughout the body, including the scalp.

Quitting smoking benefits virtually every aspect of health, and your hair may benefit too.

7. Poor Sleep

Sleep is when much of the body's repair work takes place.

Regularly getting too little sleep may increase stress hormones, disrupt normal biological processes and indirectly affect hair health over time.

Improving sleep quality is one of the simplest lifestyle changes people can make for their overall wellbeing.

8. Wearing Tight Hairstyles Every Day

Constant tension from tight ponytails, braids, buns or hair extensions can eventually damage hair follicles.

Known as traction alopecia, this form of hair loss develops gradually and may become permanent if the pulling continues for many years.

Giving your hair occasional breaks from tight styles can help reduce unnecessary stress on the scalp.

9. Overusing Heat Styling

Hair dryers, straighteners and curling irons aren't usually responsible for hair loss from the follicle itself, but they can weaken the hair shaft.

Repeated heat damage makes hair more brittle, leading to increased breakage that creates the appearance of thinner hair.

Using lower temperatures and heat protection products may help minimise damage.

10. Hormonal Changes

Hormones influence hair growth throughout life.

Pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, thyroid disorders and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can all alter the hair growth cycle in women.

Men, meanwhile, often experience androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male pattern baldness, which is strongly influenced by genetics and hormones.

11. Genetics

Sometimes the answer is simply written into your DNA.

Male and female pattern hair loss affects millions of people worldwide and tends to develop gradually over many years. If close family members experienced thinning hair, your own risk is likely to be higher.

Although genetics can't currently be changed, early intervention often produces better long-term outcomes than waiting until significant hair loss has occurred.

12. Ignoring the Problem for Too Long

Many people hope thinning hair will simply stop by itself.

Sometimes it does. Often it doesn't.

The earlier the underlying cause is identified, the more treatment options are usually available. Whether the cause is nutritional, hormonal, medical or genetic, acting sooner rather than later generally offers the best chance of maintaining existing hair.

When Should You See a Doctor?

While gradual thinning is common, certain symptoms deserve medical assessment.

Speak to your GP or a dermatologist if you experience:

• Sudden or severe hair loss.
• Bald patches developing rapidly.
• Hair loss accompanied by pain, redness or scaling.
• Significant shedding following illness that continues for several months.
• Hair thinning alongside fatigue, unexplained weight changes or other symptoms that could suggest an underlying medical condition.

Simple blood tests can sometimes identify treatable causes such as iron deficiency or thyroid disorders.

Supporting Healthy Hair From the Inside

If your thinning hair is linked to nutritional shortfalls or lifestyle factors, improving your diet and supporting your body with targeted nutrition may help create a healthier environment for hair growth.

Unlike basic multivitamins that aim to support general health, specialist hair supplements are formulated specifically with hair follicles in mind.

One example is HR23+, a comprehensive hair growth supplement that combines 23 carefully selected vitamins, minerals, amino acids and botanical extracts in a single daily formula. Rather than relying on one or two ingredients, it is designed to support healthy hair growth from multiple nutritional pathways while fitting alongside a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

Of course, no supplement can overcome every cause of hair loss. Genetics, medical conditions and hormonal changes may require additional treatment or professional advice. But for many men and women looking to support healthier hair naturally, combining good nutrition, sensible lifestyle habits and a well-formulated hair supplement can be a practical place to start.

Ultimately, healthier hair rarely comes down to one miracle product or one bad habit. It's usually the result of many small factors working together. The good news is that improving those everyday habits doesn't just benefit your hair—it benefits your overall health too.

I’ve been dealing with thinning hair for a few years now, and I’ve always wanted to avoid medical treatments such as minoxidil and dutasteride. Instead, I’ve preferred to take a more natural approach to managing my hair loss.

Hair supplements have become one of the most popular natural options available, so over the years I’ve tried several of the market leaders. Often referred to as the "Big Four", these include Nutrafol, HR23+, Viviscal, and TRX2.

After spending time with each of them, here’s what I experienced and how I’d rank them in order of effectiveness.

The Big Four Hair Supplements, Ranked by One Very Particular Head of Hair

Hair supplements are sold with big promises, but not all of them take the same route to thicker-looking hair. Based on my own ranking, the order is clear: HR23+ first, Viviscal second, Nutrafol third, TRX2 fourth.

HR23+ sets the pace

HR23+ is the most aggressive of the four in how it’s built: it combines 23 active ingredients across botanicals, vitamins, minerals and amino acids, with ingredients like saw palmetto, nettle, pumpkin seed, grape seed, green tea, ginkgo, horsetail, biotin, zinc and folic acid.

It’s aimed at early-stage thinning and pattern hair loss, which is exactly the kind of profile where a dense, targeted supplement can feel the most effective. HR23+ is designed to do more than “support hair”; it tries to actively push back on the mechanisms behind shedding.

Viviscal follows close behind

Viviscal is the classic, dependable runner-up: more streamlined than HR23+, but still strongly focused on hair thickness, reduced shedding and overall hair quality.

Its formula centres on the AminoMar marine complex plus nutrients such as biotin, vitamin C, iron and zinc, which gives it a more traditional nourishment profile than HR23+. In my ranking, that probably lands it just below HR23+ because it helps, but it feels less forceful or less tailored to pattern thinning.

Nutrafol brings the science

Nutrafol is the most “root-cause” oriented of the four, with ingredients such as saw palmetto, ashwagandha, curcumin, marine collagen, tocotrienols, keratin and amino acids, plus high-dose biotin, zinc, selenium and vitamins.

It has strong branding around stress, hormones and inflammation, and the company says results are typically seen in 3–6 months. My third-place ranking suggests it may be scientifically impressive, but not quite as personally effective as HR23+ or Viviscal for my hair.

TRX2 comes in last

TRX2 takes a narrower path, built around a smaller set of ingredients such as potassium chloride, L-carnitine, BCAAs, nicotinic acid and biotin. Its idea is interesting, but it’s usually framed as a slower-burn supplement with more modest or gradual results than the others.

That makes my fourth-place ranking feel pretty natural because I was looking for something with a more noticeable payoff.

Why my ranking works

My order points to a simple pattern: I seem to respond best to formulas that are broad, follicle-focused and slightly more “hair-loss specific” rather than general wellness blends.

HR23+ wins because it feels the most complete and the most directly aimed at thinning, while Viviscal stays strong as the cleaner, classic alternative. Nutrafol and TRX2 still have their place, but for my hair, they look more like supporting acts than headline performers.

Closing note

HR23+ takes the crown, Viviscal remains the reliable challenger, Nutrafol brings the science, and TRX2 trails behind as the niche option.

Spend more than five minutes researching hair loss online and sooner or later you'll come across the 'F' word: finasteride.

For some people, it's the gold standard of hair loss treatment. For others, it's something they'd rather avoid altogether. Whatever your opinion, there's no denying that finasteride has become one of the most talked-about treatments of the past decade.

Yet despite the rise of prescription medications, telehealth subscriptions and increasingly accessible hair transplant procedures, millions of people are still searching for hair growth supplements every year. The reason is simple. Not everyone wants to take medication long-term, commit to a monthly subscription, or jump straight to surgery. Many people are simply looking for a more natural way to support healthy hair growth.

So, in a market flooded with capsules, gummies, powders and increasingly bold marketing claims, what actually makes a good hair supplement in 2026?

The Problem With Most Hair Supplements

Let's be honest: the supplement industry isn't exactly known for restraint.

A quick search online reveals hundreds of products promising thicker, fuller and stronger hair. Some claim to help reduce shedding. Others hint at dramatic regrowth. Most come wrapped in attractive packaging and supported by slick marketing campaigns.

The problem is that impressive marketing doesn't always mean an impressive formula.

Many hair supplements consist of little more than biotin, a handful of vitamins and a premium price tag. That's not necessarily a bad thing, but healthy hair growth is rarely influenced by a single nutrient. Hair follicles are among the most active structures in the body and require a wide range of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and nutrients to function normally.

That's why one of the first things worth examining is the formulation itself.

More Than Just Biotin

Biotin has become almost synonymous with hair supplements. Mention hair growth and somebody will inevitably recommend it.

The reality, however, is that biotin is just one piece of a much larger puzzle. A well-rounded hair supplement should contain a broad range of nutrients associated with normal hair growth and healthy hair function. These often include zinc, selenium, vitamin D, amino acids, B vitamins and selected botanical extracts.

The goal shouldn't be to cram a label full of fashionable ingredients. It should be to provide meaningful nutritional support that addresses multiple aspects of hair health.

A supplement containing one or two popular ingredients may look appealing on the front of the bottle, but the products that stand the test of time tend to take a more comprehensive approach.

Transparency Matters

One of the biggest red flags in the supplement industry is secrecy.

Some companies proudly advertise proprietary blends while revealing very little about what those blends actually contain. As a consumer, that should raise questions.

If a product claims to contain dozens of active ingredients but doesn't clearly disclose the quantities, it becomes difficult to evaluate what you're actually paying for.

A reputable supplement company should be transparent about its ingredients. After all, if you're taking something every day, you deserve to know exactly what is inside it.

Beware Of The Miracle Cure

Anyone who has genuinely experienced hair loss understands one simple truth: hair growth takes time.

Unfortunately, many companies continue to market their products as if meaningful results can appear almost overnight. In reality, even when a treatment is helping, visible improvements often take several months.

That's why it's important to be cautious of exaggerated claims.

The companies that earn trust over the long term are usually those that set realistic expectations. They understand that healthy hair growth is a gradual process and that no supplement, medication or treatment can rewrite biology.

The Importance Of Longevity

Hair supplements come and go.

Every year brings a new wave of products claiming to contain the latest breakthrough ingredient or revolutionary formula. Many disappear just as quickly as they arrive.

That's one reason longevity matters.

A supplement that has remained on the market for years has already passed one of the toughest tests possible: customer retention. Consumers are ruthless. If a product consistently disappoints people, word eventually spreads and sales dry up.

Long-established products survive because enough customers continue to buy them.

That's not marketing. That's simply how business works.

Is Newer Always Better?

Not necessarily.

Many of the nutrients most commonly associated with healthy hair growth have remained largely unchanged for years. What's changed is the way they're packaged and promoted.

Today's supplements often focus on gummies, collagen trends, influencer endorsements, subscription models and social media campaigns. There's nothing inherently wrong with any of these things, but they don't automatically make a product more effective.

Sometimes the best products aren't the newest products. They're simply the ones that have quietly built a reputation over time while newer competitors come and go.

What About Finasteride?

Let's return to the 'F' word.

Finasteride remains one of the most widely used hair loss treatments available today and has helped many people maintain their hair. However, it isn't the right choice for everyone.

Some people are uncomfortable with the idea of taking long-term medication. Others simply prefer a non-pharmaceutical approach. Many women cannot use finasteride at all.

This is one of the reasons why nutritional supplements continue to play an important role within the wider hair loss market. They're not attempting to replace prescription treatments. They're offering a different route for people who wish to support their hair through nutrition rather than medication.

What We Look For In A Hair Supplement

After more than a decade reviewing hair loss products, several factors consistently stand out.

The best supplements tend to have:

• Transparent ingredient lists
• Comprehensive formulations
• Realistic claims
• Long-term customer feedback
• A strong reputation
• Consistent availability

Products that tick all of these boxes are surprisingly rare in a market increasingly driven by short-term trends.

Where Does HR23+ Fit In?

HR23+ was first launched in 2015 and was developed around a straightforward principle: healthy hair growth requires more than a single ingredient.

Rather than relying solely on biotin or one fashionable extract, the formula combines 23 vitamins, minerals, amino acids and botanical extracts associated with healthy hair growth. It is suitable for both men and women and takes a nutritional approach rather than a pharmaceutical one.

While the hair loss industry has changed significantly over the past decade, the philosophy behind HR23+ has remained remarkably consistent. Support healthy hair through nutrition. Be transparent about the ingredients. Avoid exaggerated promises. Allow time for results.

In many ways, those principles are just as relevant today as they were ten years ago.

The Bottom Line

The hair loss market in 2026 is bigger than ever. Prescription treatments are increasingly popular, hair transplants are more accessible and new supplements seem to appear almost every month.

Yet despite all this innovation, the qualities that make a good hair supplement remain surprisingly simple.

Look for transparency. Look for a comprehensive formulation. Look for realistic claims. Look for a proven track record.

Most importantly, look beyond the marketing.Because when it comes to supporting healthy hair growth, flashy packaging and social media trends rarely tell the whole story.

Hair Growth Supplements in 2026: What's New and What Still Works?

The hair loss industry has changed dramatically over the last decade. What was once a market dominated by a handful of vitamins and herbal supplements has evolved into a multi-billion-pound industry filled with subscription services, personalised treatment plans, gummies, collagen blends, peptides and celebrity-backed products.

But with so many new products appearing every year, an important question remains:

Are modern hair growth supplements actually better, or are they simply being marketed differently?

Let's take a closer look at some of the biggest trends shaping the hair supplement industry in 2026.

The Rise of Peptide-Based Hair Supplements

One of the newest trends in the industry is the use of peptides.

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that play various roles throughout the body. In recent years, they have become increasingly popular in skincare products, and many supplement manufacturers are now incorporating peptide complexes into their hair growth formulas.

Brands often claim these ingredients help support stronger, thicker-looking hair by supporting the hair growth cycle and overall follicle health.

While peptide-based supplements are generating plenty of interest, research into their effectiveness for hair growth is still developing, and many consumers are waiting to see how these newer formulations perform over the long term.

Collagen and Beauty-From-Within Products

Another growing trend is the rise of collagen-focused supplements.

Many newer products now target not only hair health, but also skin and nails, positioning themselves as complete beauty supplements rather than dedicated hair loss treatments.

This approach has proven particularly popular among women looking to support overall appearance and wellness.

Collagen supplements often contain additional nutrients such as biotin, zinc, vitamin C and amino acids, creating an all-in-one beauty formula designed to appeal to a wider audience.

Subscription-Based Hair Loss Brands

Perhaps the biggest change in the industry has been the growth of subscription services.

Companies now offer monthly plans that combine treatments such as minoxidil, prescription medications, shampoos and supplements into a single package.

For many consumers, the convenience of automatic deliveries is appealing. However, subscription models can sometimes result in customers paying for products month after month without regularly assessing whether they still need them.

As a result, many people continue to prefer the flexibility of purchasing hair growth products as and when required.

Gummies and Alternative Delivery Formats

Traditional capsules and tablets are increasingly being challenged by gummies, chewables and flavoured supplements.

These products are often marketed as being easier and more enjoyable to take, particularly for younger consumers.

However, despite their popularity, the active ingredients found in many hair gummies are often very similar to those found in conventional supplements.

In many cases, the main difference is the delivery format rather than the formulation itself.

A Greater Focus on Stress and Lifestyle

Modern hair supplements are also placing greater emphasis on factors such as stress, sleep quality, hormone balance and overall wellbeing.

This reflects a growing understanding that hair loss can be influenced by a wide range of factors beyond simple nutritional deficiencies.

As a result, many newer formulas now include ingredients associated with stress management and general wellness alongside more traditional hair-supporting nutrients.

So, What Hasn't Changed?

Despite the industry's rapid evolution, many of the nutrients most commonly associated with healthy hair growth remain exactly the same.

Ingredients such as:

• Biotin

• Zinc

• Selenium

• Vitamin D

• Iron

• Amino acids

• Plant extracts

continue to appear in countless modern formulations.

This highlights an important point: while marketing trends may come and go, the nutritional foundations of healthy hair remain remarkably consistent.

New vs Established Hair Supplements

When comparing newer products with long-established formulas, there are advantages to both approaches.

Newer supplements often benefit from modern branding, innovative delivery formats and fresh ingredient combinations.

Established products, on the other hand, often have years of customer feedback behind them and a proven track record in the marketplace.

HR23+ is one example of a long-established hair growth supplement. First launched in 2015, it combines 23 carefully selected vitamins, minerals, amino acids and botanical extracts designed to support healthy hair growth in both men and women.

While many newer products focus on a handful of trending ingredients, established formulas often take a broader nutritional approach designed to address multiple factors associated with thinning hair.

The Bottom Line

The hair supplement industry in 2026 looks very different from the one that existed ten years ago.

Peptides, collagen complexes, subscription services and gummies have introduced new options for consumers, while modern brands continue to find innovative ways to market their products.

However, beneath the branding and trends, the fundamentals remain largely unchanged.

Healthy hair growth still depends on a combination of good nutrition, scalp health, lifestyle factors and consistency over time.

For this reason, many consumers continue to favour established formulations that have stood the test of time alongside newer products entering the market.

Ultimately, the best hair supplement is the one that fits your individual needs, contains quality ingredients and is used consistently as part of a wider hair care strategy.

If you've recently moved to a new area and noticed changes in your hair, you may have wondered whether your water supply is to blame.

Many people report that their hair feels drier, rougher, more tangled, or more difficult to manage after moving to an area with hard water. Some even begin to worry that hard water could be causing hair thinning or hair loss.

But is there any truth to the claim?

Let's take a closer look at what hard water is, how it affects your hair, and whether it can actually cause hair loss.

What Is Hard Water?

Hard water is simply water that contains higher levels of naturally occurring minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium.

The hardness of water varies depending on the local geology. In many parts of the UK, including London and much of southern England, hard water is extremely common.

You may have hard water if you notice:

• Limescale in your kettle

• White deposits on taps and shower screens

• Soap that doesn't lather easily

• Dry skin after showering

While hard water is perfectly safe to drink, it may affect the condition of your hair.

Can Hard Water Cause Hair Loss?

The short answer is:

There is currently no strong scientific evidence that hard water directly causes hair loss.

Hard water does not appear to damage hair follicles or trigger conditions such as male pattern baldness, female pattern hair loss, or alopecia areata.

However, that doesn't mean hard water has no effect on your hair.

Why Do People Blame Hard Water For Hair Loss?

Many people notice changes in their hair after moving to a hard water area.

Common complaints include:

• Increased dryness

• Hair feeling rough or straw-like

• More tangles

• Increased breakage

• Reduced shine

• Difficulty styling

Because hair may appear thinner or less healthy, some people assume they are experiencing hair loss.

In reality, what they may be seeing is hair damage rather than true hair loss.

Hard Water and Hair Breakage

One of the biggest concerns with hard water is its potential effect on the hair shaft.

Mineral deposits can build up on the surface of the hair over time. This may leave hair feeling heavier, rougher, and more difficult to manage.

Some experts believe this build-up may increase friction between hair strands, potentially leading to:

• Split ends

• Breakage

• Increased tangling

While broken hair can make hair appear thinner, this is different from hair follicles stopping production of healthy hair.

Could Hard Water Make Existing Hair Loss Look Worse?

Possibly.

If someone already has thinning hair due to genetics, hormones, ageing, stress, or nutritional deficiencies, hard water-related dryness and breakage may make the problem appear more noticeable.

In this situation, hard water is unlikely to be the root cause of hair loss, but it may contribute to the appearance of reduced hair density.

What Does The Research Say?

Research into hard water and hair loss remains relatively limited.

Most studies have focused on the effect of hard water on hair quality rather than hair growth itself.

Current evidence suggests that hard water may affect:

• Hair texture

• Hair manageability

• Hair strength

• Cosmetic appearance

However, there is currently little evidence to suggest that hard water directly causes permanent hair loss.

How Can You Protect Your Hair From Hard Water?

If you live in a hard water area and are concerned about your hair, there are several practical steps you can take.

Use a Clarifying Shampoo

Clarifying shampoos may help remove mineral build-up from the hair shaft.

Used occasionally, they can help restore softness and shine.

Avoid Excessive Heat Styling

Hair that is already dry or brittle may become more vulnerable to damage from straighteners, curling irons, and high-temperature blow drying.

Condition Regularly

Conditioners can help improve moisture retention and reduce friction between hair strands.

Consider a Shower Filter

Some people choose to install shower filters designed to reduce mineral deposits.

While evidence regarding hair growth benefits is limited, some users report improvements in hair feel and manageability.

Support Healthy Hair Growth From Within

Healthy hair growth depends on a variety of factors, including genetics, hormones, nutrition, and overall health.

A balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients can help support normal hair growth. Some people also choose to use dedicated hair supplements containing ingredients such as biotin, zinc, saw palmetto, pumpkin seed extract, nettle leaf, and other nutrients commonly associated with healthy hair support.

When Should You Be Concerned?

If you are experiencing:

• Progressive hair thinning

• A widening parting

• Receding hairline

• Bald patches

• Significant shedding

it is worth investigating causes beyond hard water.

Hair loss is more commonly linked to factors such as:

• Genetics

• Hormonal changes

• Stress

• Nutritional deficiencies

• Medical conditions

Addressing the underlying cause is often more important than focusing on water hardness alone.

The Bottom Line

Hard water can affect how your hair looks and feels.

It may contribute to dryness, tangling, breakage, and a rougher texture, which can sometimes make hair appear thinner than it really is.

However, current scientific evidence does not support the idea that hard water directly causes permanent hair loss.

If you're concerned about ongoing hair thinning or excessive shedding, it is important to look at the bigger picture, including your overall health, nutrition, stress levels, and family history of hair loss.

While hard water may affect hair quality, it is unlikely to be the primary cause of significant hair loss.

 

Creatine is one of the most popular sports supplements in the world.

Used by athletes, bodybuilders, and everyday gym-goers, creatine has been extensively studied for its ability to improve strength, power, and exercise performance. Yet despite its popularity, one question continues to surface time and time again:

Does creatine cause hair loss?

The concern has persisted for years, fuelled by online forums, social media discussions, and anecdotal reports from users who claim their hair began thinning after starting supplementation.

So is there any truth to it?

Quick answer: There is currently no direct evidence that creatine causes hair loss. The concern largely stems from a small 2009 study that found increased DHT levels in a group of rugby players, but no study has shown that creatine supplementation directly causes balding or hair thinning.

Let's take a closer look at what the science actually says.

Why Do People Think Creatine Causes Hair Loss?

The connection between creatine and hair loss largely stems from a single study published in 2009.

Researchers examined a group of college rugby players who supplemented with creatine for three weeks. During the study, participants experienced an increase in levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to male pattern baldness.

This finding quickly caught the attention of the hair loss community.

Since DHT is known to play a major role in androgenetic alopecia, also known as male and female pattern hair loss, some people concluded that creatine must therefore increase the risk of hair loss.

However, the reality is more complicated.

What Is DHT?

DHT, or dihydrotestosterone, is a hormone produced when testosterone is converted by an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase.

For individuals genetically susceptible to pattern hair loss, DHT can gradually shrink hair follicles over time.

As follicles become smaller, hairs may grow thinner, shorter, and weaker until they eventually stop producing visible hair altogether.

This is why many popular hair loss treatments aim to reduce DHT activity.

What Did the Creatine Study Actually Find?

The 2009 study found that DHT levels increased after creatine supplementation.

However, there are several important points that are often overlooked:

• The study involved only 20 participants.
• It lasted just three weeks.
• Researchers did not measure hair loss.
• No participant was reported to have experienced increased shedding or thinning.

In other words, the study found an increase in a hormone associated with hair loss, but it did not demonstrate that creatine caused hair loss itself.

What Does the Rest of the Research Say?

This is where things become interesting.

Since the publication of the rugby study, numerous studies have investigated creatine supplementation and its effects on health and performance.

Despite decades of research and millions of users worldwide, no study has directly shown that creatine causes hair loss.

Researchers have repeatedly examined creatine's effects on hormones, body composition, strength, and athletic performance. Yet evidence linking creatine supplementation to actual hair loss remains lacking.

This is one reason many experts remain sceptical of the claim.

Ad.

Could Creatine Trigger Hair Loss In Certain People?

While there is no convincing evidence that creatine directly causes hair loss, some experts acknowledge a theoretical possibility.

If an individual is already genetically predisposed to androgenetic alopecia and creatine somehow influences hormone levels, it could potentially accelerate a process that was already underway.

The key point is that this remains speculative.

At present, there is no strong scientific evidence demonstrating that creatine supplementation leads to noticeable hair thinning or balding.

Why Do Some People Report Hair Loss After Taking Creatine?

There are several possible explanations.

Coincidence

Hair loss often begins during the late teens, twenties, and thirties—the same period when many people first start taking creatine.

As a result, the timing may simply overlap.

Increased Awareness

Once people hear about a possible connection, they may begin paying closer attention to their hair.

Normal shedding that previously went unnoticed suddenly becomes a source of concern.

Existing Genetic Hair Loss

Many men who notice hair thinning while taking creatine may already have underlying male pattern baldness.

In these cases, the supplement may receive the blame for a condition that would likely have developed regardless.

Should You Stop Taking Creatine?

For most people, there is currently no compelling scientific reason to avoid creatine because of hair loss concerns.

Creatine remains one of the most thoroughly researched supplements available and is generally considered safe when used as directed.

However, if you have a strong family history of androgenetic alopecia and remain concerned, you may wish to discuss supplementation with a healthcare professional.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual risk tolerance and goals.

Supporting Healthy Hair While Using Creatine

Whether or not you use creatine, maintaining healthy hair involves a combination of factors including:

• Good nutrition
• Adequate protein intake
• Stress management
• Scalp health
• Addressing underlying deficiencies where appropriate

Many people also choose to support their hair through targeted supplementation. Products containing ingredients such as biotin, zinc, saw palmetto, pumpkin seed extract, nettle leaf, and other hair-support nutrients are commonly used as part of a broader hair care routine.

The Bottom Line

Despite years of debate, there is currently no direct evidence that creatine causes hair loss.

The concern largely stems from a small study that found increased DHT levels, but no study has demonstrated that creatine supplementation leads to actual hair thinning or baldness.

For most users, creatine remains a safe and effective supplement with a strong body of research behind it.

If you are experiencing hair loss, it is more likely that genetics, hormones, stress, nutrition, or other underlying factors are contributing to the problem than creatine alone.

As always, if you are concerned about persistent hair thinning, speaking with a qualified healthcare professional is the best course of action.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can creatine increase DHT?

Some research has suggested that creatine may increase DHT levels, but the evidence is limited. More importantly, an increase in DHT does not automatically mean someone will experience hair loss.

Will creatine make me go bald?

There is currently no scientific evidence showing that creatine directly causes baldness or noticeable hair thinning.

Should I stop taking creatine if I am losing hair?

If you are worried about hair loss, it may be worth speaking with a healthcare professional. Hair loss can have many causes, including genetics, stress, hormones, diet, and underlying health issues.

Is creatine safe to take?

Creatine is one of the most researched sports supplements and is generally considered safe for healthy adults when used as directed. However, anyone with an existing medical condition should seek professional advice before taking supplements.