Nicotinic acid for hair: how it works and how to use it

Nicotinic acid (vitamin B3, niacin) is often recommended for hair growth. Here is how it works, how it is used and what to know before you start.

How it works

On the scalp, nicotinic acid widens small blood vessels and increases blood flow — which is why it feels warm and the skin turns slightly red. This is thought to improve nourishment of the hair roots. There is little scientific evidence that it works, so treat it as a hair-care product, not a treatment for baldness.

How it's used

• Spread it along partings on a clean scalp, massage lightly and don't rinse — follow the exact method on the pack.
• It's usually used as a course of about a month, followed by a break.
• Before the first use, test it on a small patch of skin.
• Mild warmth and redness are normal. Strong burning, itching, a rash, dizziness or a headache are reasons to stop.

Nicotinic acid for hair 65 ml

Who should avoid it

• people with a sensitive, irritated or damaged scalp;
• people prone to migraines or blood pressure swings;
• pregnant or breastfeeding women — only after talking to a doctor.

Why hair falls out

Hair loss is often linked to low iron, thyroid problems, hormonal changes, stress, strict diets or a recent illness. If you've been losing noticeably more hair than usual for over 2–3 months, get blood tests and see a dermatologist or trichologist: scalp products won't fix an internal cause. More on vitamins in Magnesium, vitamin D and B12.

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