Can taking fish oil supplements stop me from balding?
18th Oct 2023
Can Fish Oil help with balding?
Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, with some research showing they may improve hair health, particularly for those with hair loss.
How does fish oil work for balding? Fish oil may cause hair to enter its growth phase or stay there for longer. One animal study found that fermented mackerel oil increased the amount of time hair spent in the anagen stage, where hair growth happens. In humans, it was found that women taking supplements containing omega-3s and omega-6s had reduced time in the other three hair stages, with increased amount of time in the growth stage.
In this way, it may be possible to use omega 3 for hair growth and for even thinning hair. Another study found that taking a supplement of omega-3s and omega-6s led to thicker and denser hair after 6 months.
What are Omega-3s? These are essential fatty acids that our bodies cannot make itself. Two of which, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), have great health benefits, including possibly longevity. Omega-3 fatty acids are naturally found in food sources like salmon, herring, tuna and mackerel.
Keep in mind that evidence is limited, but if you do choose to take supplements, the best fish oil for hair growth are from reputable brands. Manufacturers can produce fish oil from any type of fish, so different products will contain different omega-3s, as well as different quantities, with some possibly not even containing DHA or EPA. Make sure to read the labels.
As for how much omega 3 per day for hair growth, a standard amount of EPA and DHA for adults is between 250–500mg, but the amount in supplements, as mentioned, can vary. According to the European Food Safety Authority, up to 5,000mg of omega-3 fatty acids can be safely consumed daily.
You can also apply fish oil directly to your scalp, which may add shine as well as make it healthier, but remember that it does have an odour.
Also, while omega-3 may have some impact on DHT levels, it hasn’t been found to block DHT completely or prevent hair loss on its own.