Does b12 help hair growth
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The Role of Vitamin B12 in Hair Growth
Vitamin B12 and Hair Follicle Activation
Wnt-Pathway Activation by Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, has been shown to activate the Wnt-pathway in human hair follicle cells. This activation occurs through the induction of beta-catenin and the inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) transcription. In a study where hair follicles were cultured with varying amounts of vitamin B12, a dose-dependent increase in hair shaft elongation was observed. Specifically, hair shaft elongation increased by 6.2% and 15.4% with 2.5 µg/ml and 25 µg/ml of vitamin B12, respectively. Additionally, beta-catenin mRNA levels increased significantly, while GSK-3 levels decreased, suggesting that vitamin B12 promotes hair growth by modulating intracellular signaling molecules involved in the Wnt-pathway.
Micronutrients and Hair Follicle Health
Micronutrients, including vitamins and minerals, play a crucial role in the normal hair follicle cycle and cellular turnover. This is particularly important in the matrix cells of the follicle bulb, which are rapidly dividing. Deficiencies in these micronutrients can be a modifiable risk factor for the development and treatment of alopecia. While the exact role of each micronutrient is not entirely clear, their importance in hair follicle development and immune cell function is well-documented. Large double-blind placebo-controlled trials are needed to determine the specific effects of micronutrient supplementation, including vitamin B12, on hair growth in individuals with micronutrient deficiencies and non-scarring alopecia.
Conclusion
Vitamin B12 appears to have a positive effect on hair growth by activating the Wnt-pathway and promoting hair follicle health. While more research is needed to fully understand its role and efficacy, current evidence suggests that vitamin B12 supplementation could be beneficial for individuals experiencing hair loss due to micronutrient deficiencies.
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