Omega-3/6 Supplement Reduces Hair Loss in Women - Study

observational-study PMID: 25573272

Quick Summary: A study found that a supplement containing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, along with antioxidants, helped reduce hair loss and improve hair thickness and density in women over six months.

What The Research Found

Women taking the supplement saw significant improvements in hair density and a decrease in the amount of hair in the resting phase (telogen phase). Almost 90% of the women reported less hair loss, and over 85% noticed their hair was thicker and denser. The study used photographs, trichometer measurements, and self-assessments to measure these improvements.

Study Details

Who was studied: 120 healthy women experiencing female pattern hair loss.

How long: 6 months

What they took: A daily supplement containing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, plus antioxidants. The exact amounts of each ingredient weren't specified.

What This Means For You

If you're a woman experiencing hair loss, this study suggests that a supplement with omega-3/6 and antioxidants may help. Many women in the study reported positive changes in their hair. However, it's important to remember that this study used a specific supplement blend, not just omega-3 alone. Talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement.

Study Limitations

The study didn't specify the exact amounts of omega-3 and omega-6 in the supplement.

The study compared the supplement to a control group, but it's not clear if the control group received a placebo (an inactive substance).

The study relied on self-reported improvements, which can be subjective.

The study lasted only six months, so the long-term effects are unknown.

The study only included healthy women, so the results may not apply to everyone.

Key Findings

The 6-month supplementation significantly improved hair density versus control (P < 0.001) based on standardized photographs. The supplemented group showed a statistically significant reduction in telogen hair percentage (P < 0.001) and an increased proportion of non-vellus anagen hair (>40 µm). Trichometer measurements confirmed increased hair density in the treatment group versus a decrease in controls. Subject self-assessment reported 89.9% experienced reduced hair loss, 86.1% noted improved hair diameter, and 87.3% observed increased density at 6 months. The study concluded the omega-3/6 and antioxidant supplement effectively reduced hair loss and improved hair metrics.

Study Design

This was a 6-month, randomized, comparative study (labeled "observational-study" in source metadata but described as randomized in methods) involving 120 healthy women with female pattern hair loss. Primary endpoint was change in hair density via standardized photographs. Secondary endpoints included telogen percentage, anagen hair diameter distribution (>40 µm vs. ≤40 µm) via trichogram, trichometer measurements, and subject self-assessment. No placebo group was explicitly described; it was a comparative study against a control group.

Dosage & Administration

The study administered a daily oral nutritional supplement containing "specific omega 3&6 and antioxidants." The exact composition, dosages of individual components (e.g., EPA, DHA, GLA), or total daily amounts of omega-3/6 fatty acids were not specified in the provided summary. Administration duration was 6 months.

Results & Efficacy

Photographic assessment showed statistically superior improvement in the supplemented group (P < 0.001). Telogen hair percentage decreased significantly in the treatment group (P < 0.001). The proportion of non-vellus anagen hair (>40 µm) increased in supplemented subjects compared to controls. Trichometer index increased in the supplemented group but decreased in the control group. Subject-reported efficacy was high: 89.9% noted reduced hair loss, 86.1% reported improved hair diameter, and 87.3% observed increased density at 6 months. All primary and key secondary endpoints demonstrated statistically significant benefits for the supplement.

Limitations

The study lacked detailed disclosure of the supplement's exact formulation and dosages, preventing replication or isolation of active components. The description as a "comparative study" without explicit mention of a placebo raises questions about blinding and control group composition (e.g., was it no treatment or another intervention?). Self-assessment data introduces potential subjectivity and reporting bias. The 6-month duration may be insufficient to assess long-term effects on chronic hair loss. The sample comprised only healthy women, limiting generalizability to women with underlying health conditions or different ethnicities.

Clinical Relevance

This study suggests a specific multi-ingredient supplement containing omega-3/6 fatty acids and antioxidants may benefit women experiencing female pattern hair loss, with objective and subjective improvements evident within 6 months. However, the lack of isolated omega-3/6 data means results cannot be attributed solely to these fatty acids; the observed effects likely involve the combined action with antioxidants. Users should note this reflects a proprietary blend, not standalone omega-3 supplementation. The high self-reported efficacy (87-90%) indicates potential for meaningful patient-perceived benefits, but consultation with a healthcare provider is advised before use, especially given the unreported exact composition. Further research with defined ingredients and placebo controls is needed.