Researchers tested whether special supplements could help people with thinning hair grow thicker, stronger strands. Over 250 adults took different types of hair growth supplements for 6 months, with some formulas designed specifically for women, men, vegans, and new mothers. By the end of the study, people taking these supplements had noticeably thicker hair strands, less hair breakage, and reported feeling more confident about their hair. The results suggest these plant-based supplements may be a helpful option for people dealing with hair thinning caused by stress, hormones, or diet.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Whether specially designed supplements containing plant ingredients could make hair thicker and reduce hair loss in people with thinning hair
  • Who participated: 244 adults who completed the study, including women, men, vegans, menopausal women, and new mothers—all experiencing noticeable hair thinning
  • Key finding: After 6 months, people taking the supplements had measurably thicker hair strands under a microscope, significantly less hair breakage when tested, and reported stronger, longer, healthier-looking hair
  • What it means for you: If you’re dealing with thinning hair, these supplements may help make your hair thicker and stronger over time. However, results take patience—improvements appeared after 3 months and were most noticeable at 6 months. Talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you take medications or have health conditions.

The Research Details

This was a 6-month study where researchers followed 252 adults with thinning hair who took hair growth supplements. The study wasn’t “blinded,” meaning both the participants and researchers knew who was taking the supplements (rather than some people getting fake pills). Participants came in at the start, after 3 months, and after 6 months for measurements. The researchers used a microscope to measure how thick each hair strand was, did a special hair pull test to count how many hairs fell out, and asked a skin doctor to evaluate hair quality. People also answered questions about how they felt their hair was improving.

This study design allowed researchers to track real changes in hair thickness over time using objective measurements (microscope measurements and hair pull tests) combined with expert evaluation and personal feedback. By testing different supplement formulas for different groups (women, men, vegans, new mothers), the researchers could see if personalized supplements work better than one-size-fits-all options.

The study had a good completion rate—244 out of 252 people finished the full 6 months, which is strong. Researchers used multiple ways to measure results (microscope measurements, hair pull tests, expert assessment, and personal reports), which makes the findings more reliable. However, because this wasn’t a blinded study where some people got fake pills, people’s expectations might have influenced how they felt about their results. The study was sponsored by the supplement company, which is important to know when evaluating the findings.

What the Results Show

By day 180 (6 months), all groups taking the supplements showed significantly thicker hair strands when measured under a microscope. This is important because thicker hair strands are less likely to break and look fuller overall. The hair pull test—where researchers gently pulled hair from different parts of the scalp—showed that people were losing fewer hairs overall, with less breakage of existing hairs. A dermatologist who examined participants’ hair in person confirmed improvements in hair strength, length, thickness, and overall health across all groups. When asked about their own observations, participants strongly agreed that their hair had improved by the 6-month mark.

The improvements appeared consistent across all five groups tested (women, vegan women, menopausal women, postpartum women, and men), suggesting the personalized formulas worked well for their intended audiences. Hair shedding decreased in three ways: fewer intact hairs were lost, fewer broken hairs appeared, and total hair loss decreased. Self-perception data showed strong agreement that hair looked and felt better, indicating people noticed real changes in their daily lives.

This study builds on earlier research showing these supplements support hair growth. By measuring actual hair thickness with a microscope and tracking breakage with standardized tests, this research provides more objective evidence than studies relying only on people’s personal observations. The focus on hair shaft diameter (thickness) is a newer approach that explains why hair looks fuller and healthier.

The study wasn’t blinded, meaning participants knew they were taking supplements designed to help hair, which could influence how they perceived results. There was no comparison group taking fake pills to see if improvements happened naturally over 6 months. The study was funded by the supplement company that makes these products, which could introduce bias. We don’t know how long benefits last after stopping the supplements, or how these supplements compare to other hair loss treatments. Results may vary between individuals based on the underlying cause of their hair thinning.

The Bottom Line

If you have thinning hair and want to try supplements, these products show promise based on this research (moderate confidence level). Choose the formula designed for your specific situation (women, men, vegan, menopausal, or postpartum). Give it at least 3-6 months to see results, as improvements take time. Combine supplements with healthy habits: manage stress, eat a balanced diet with enough protein, stay hydrated, and get adequate sleep. Talk to your doctor first, especially if you’re pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have health conditions.

This research is relevant for adults experiencing noticeable hair thinning from stress, hormones, diet, or lifestyle factors. It may be especially helpful for women going through menopause, new mothers experiencing postpartum hair loss, people following plant-based diets, and men with thinning hair. People with hair loss from medical conditions (like alopecia or thyroid disease) should talk to their doctor before trying supplements. If you’re taking medications that affect hair growth, check with your healthcare provider first.

Expect to wait at least 3 months before noticing improvements in hair thickness and reduced breakage. The most noticeable changes appeared at the 6-month mark in this study. Hair growth is slow—it takes time for thicker, stronger strands to grow in and become visible. Be patient and consistent with taking the supplements as directed.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • Take a photo of your hair (same angle, lighting, and style) every 4 weeks and note any changes in thickness, shine, or breakage. Track daily supplement adherence and any lifestyle factors that might affect hair health (stress levels, sleep quality, diet quality). Record the number of hairs lost during regular brushing or showering using a simple count or scale (minimal, moderate, significant).
  • Set a daily reminder to take your hair growth supplement at the same time each day (morning or with a meal works well for consistency). Pair this habit with another daily routine—like taking it with breakfast or before brushing teeth—to make it automatic. If you notice side effects or have questions, log them in the app to discuss with your doctor.
  • Check in monthly with your hair quality observations and supplement adherence rate. At the 3-month mark, assess whether you’re noticing less breakage or increased thickness. At 6 months, compare your current hair to photos from the start to see overall improvements. Track any changes in stress, sleep, or diet that might affect results. If you’re not seeing improvements by month 4, discuss with your doctor whether to continue or try a different approach.

This research shows that these specific hair growth supplements may help improve hair thickness and reduce breakage over 6 months. However, this study was funded by the supplement company and wasn’t blinded, which means results should be interpreted carefully. Hair thinning can have many causes—some medical conditions require professional treatment. Before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have health conditions, talk to your doctor or dermatologist. Supplements are not regulated the same way as medications, and results vary between individuals. This information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you experience unusual hair loss, scalp problems, or other health concerns, see a healthcare provider.