Nutritional Supplements in Treating Androgenetic Alopecia

The document discusses the use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), specifically nutritional supplementation, in treating androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Due to a lack of effective therapies for AGA, many patients turn to CAM, including vitamin and mineral supplementation. This is particularly beneficial for patients with documented deficiencies and those at risk of malnutrition, such as the elderly or those with malabsorption. Certain proprietary nutraceutical blends containing ingredients like ashwagandha, curcumin, equisetum, and marine proteins have shown positive results in double-blinded, randomized, controlled trials, resulting in thicker and denser hair. These supplements are generally safe and well-tolerated, especially when combined with medical therapies like minoxidil. However, excess intake of some supplements like iron, selenium, vitamin D, vitamin E, and zinc can lead to adverse effects. Biotin supplementation, though common, can interfere with certain diagnostic assays. The document concludes with a call for more high-quality research on the safety, efficacy, and optimal use of nutritional supplements for alopecia.