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When it comes to healthy hair, we often focus on shampoos, oils, and serums, but have you ever thought about the role of zinc? This powerhouse mineral isn’t just essential for your overall health; it’s also a game-changer for your scalp.
Let’s explore the incredible benefits of zinc for scalp health and how incorporating it into your routine can transform your hair care game. The Wimpole Clinic states that zinc enhances hair health by promoting rapid cell division and proliferation, leading to strong strand growth, and providing building blocks for healthy follicle development.
It is believed to support keratin production and regulate sebum production “the natural oil produced by the scalp”, maintaining hair fibre integrity and thickness.
My Hair Doctores believes that zinc is essential for building healthy cells, regulating hormones, and absorbing nutrients. Excess zinc is said to cause hair loss by disrupting the absorption of essential minerals and promoting testosterone production.
The above source further claims that zinc is crucial for hair follicle growth, as high doses inhibit both the anagen and catagen stages. “To understand how zinc prevents hair loss, it is important to know how zinc deficiency can lead to hair loss. One theory established that zinc deficiency leads to changes in the protein structure of hair follicles leading to the weakening of their structural integrity.”
According to Goldielocks, zinc is a powerful nutrient for hair growth when combined with other nutrients like biotin, selenium, iodine, and iron. Biotin is claimed to support hair health, while selenium protects hair follicles.
The above source adds that zinc complements iodine’s absorption and effectiveness, ensuring thyroid health and hair growth. “Iron transports oxygen to your hair follicles, vital for growth, while zinc takes charge of cell reproduction and tissue growth. Together, they ensure your hair gets everything it needs to thrive.”
Also see: Summer hair woes? Here’s how to care for your scalp in the heat