Hair

Hair, a type of keratin protein, serves to protectthe skin from foreign objects, the sun's rays, and damage. Composed of elementslike carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, sulfur, and nitrogen, it primarily consists ofamino acids and minerals.¹

The Root Cause of Nail Problems

Nails, primarily made of keratin protein, protect the fingertips and can indicate health conditions. Main causes of nail issues include malnutrition and deficiencies in zinc, calcium, biotin, and fatty acids. Symptoms like brittle nails, white spots, and other abnormalities can often be remedied through proper nutrition.³

Simple Ways to Care for Hair and Nails

1. Hydrate by drinking ample water to prevent hair and nails from becoming dry and brittle.

2. Choose hair products suitable for your hair type and avoid harmful chemicals.

3. Maintain cleanliness of hair and nails to avoid germ build up.

4. Use hand and nail cream to strengthen nails and reduce breakage.

5. Consume foods rich in zinc and biotin for healthier hair and nails.

Zinc’s Importance for the Body

Zinc, an essential mineral, must be obtained through diet, as the body neither produces nor stores it. Adults typically require 15 mg daily. Found in whole grains, sunflower seeds, pork, eggs, seafood, and spinach, zinc is crucial for over 300 enzymes and 2,800 proteins, influencing hair and nail growth, acne treatment, immune function, testosterone and insulin production, sperm production, and wound healing.⁴

What is Biotin?

Biotin, or vitamin B7 or Vitamin H, is found in meat, eggs, and dairy. Being heat-sensitive, it can be destroyed by high cooking temperatures, leading to dietary deficiency. Supplementing with biotin is an alternative for maintaining healthy hair and nails.⁵

Studies indicate that zinc deficiency correlates with hair loss. In alopecia patients, a three-month zinc gluconate (50 mg/day) treatment significantly improved hair growth and reduced hair loss. Thus, zinc supplements are recommended for those experiencing hair loss.⁶

Biotin and Zinc: Essential for Hair and Nail Health⁵

1. Biotin supports hair growth and follicle health, combating hair loss, brittleness, and thinning. Zinc contributes to melanin production, affecting hair color and preventing hair loss and breakage.

2. Biotin aids in keratin production for nails, preventing brittleness, peeling, and ridges. Zinc supports collagen production, essential for nail strength and structure.

3. Zinc, as an antioxidant, shields hair and nails from damage.

4. Zinc regulates sebaceous glands on the scalp, reducing hair loss risks.

5. Biotin strengthens keratin in nails, preventing weakness and tearing.

Bioavailability of Zinc

Reference:

1. Hair. [online]. 2023. From https://research.hrdi.or.th/public/upload/83qibb1220.pdf [Oct 18, 2023]

2. Understanding Hair Loss: The Basics. [Online]. 2023. From https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/hair-loss/understanding-hair-loss-basics [Oct 17, 2023].

3. Shari R. Lipner & Richard K. Scher. Biotin for the treatment of nail disease: what is the evidence?. Journal of dermatological treatment. Vol. 29, 2018, NO.4, 411–414.

4. M. Duan, et al. Zinc nutrition and dietary zinc supplements. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition 2023, VOL. 63, NO. 9, 1277–1292.

5. Katherine GT, et al. Dietary supplements in dermatology: A review of the evidence for zinc, biotin, vitamin D, nicotinamide, and Polypodium. J AM ACAD DERMATOL, 2020.

6. Park H, et al. The therapeutic effect and the changed serum zinc level after zinc supplementation in alopecia areata patients who had a low serum zinc level. Ann Dermatol. 2009 ; 21(2): 142–6.

7. Francesco P, et al. Preliminary Comparison of Fractional Absorption of Zinc Sulphate, Zinc Gluconate, and Zinc Aspartate after Oral Supple-Mentation in Healthy Human Volunteers. Nutrients 2023, 15, 1885.

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