Not Just for the Eyes, Vitamin A is also Good for Hair

Illustration of the benefits of both vitamin A for hair, not just for the eyes (Freepik)

YOGYAKARTA - Until now, vitamin A is more commonly known as a nutrient that is good for eye health. In fact, vitamin A for hair also has an important role in maintaining the condition of the hair and scalp to stay healthy. This nutrient helps the cell growth process, including hair cells, so that hair can grow more optimally. No wonder vitamin A is often associated with softer, healthier hair and a natural shine.

What are the benefits of vitamin A for hair?

Vitamin A helps the body produce sebum, which is a natural oil that keeps the scalp moist. Sebum is important so that the hair is not easily dry, tangled, or feels rough. When the scalp is well hydrated, the hair usually also looks healthier and easier to manage. In addition, vitamin A supports the cell regeneration process needed for hair growth.

Vitamin A also helps keep the condition of the scalp healthy. Too dry scalp can make hair more brittle and breakable. With sufficient vitamin A intake, the hair growth environment becomes more ideal. This is what makes vitamin A often found in various hair care products.

Illustration of the benefits of both vitamin A for hair, not just for the eyes (Freepik/cookie_studio)What happens if the body is deficient in vitamin A?

Vitamin A deficiency can affect the condition of the hair and scalp. The hair can feel drier, look dull, and fall out more easily than usual. The scalp can also lose its natural moisture so that it feels rough or uncomfortable. In some cases, new hair growth is also less optimal.

Even so, hair loss does not always mean the body is deficient in vitamin A. There are many other factors that can affect hair health, ranging from stress, diet, to the use of products that are less suitable. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the overall condition of the body before deciding to take certain supplements.

Good sources of vitamin A for hair

Vitamin A can be obtained from various types of daily food. Animal sources such as eggs, milk, beef liver, and fish contain vitamin A in the form of retinol that is easily used by the body. Meanwhile, orange or dark green fruits and vegetables such as carrots, spinach, pumpkins, and sweet potatoes contain beta-carotene which will later be converted into vitamin A.

Consuming a balanced nutritious diet is the safest way to meet daily vitamin A needs. In addition to being good for hair, a healthy diet also helps maintain the overall condition of the skin and body. Therefore, meeting the nutritional needs of natural foods remains the most recommended option than relying on excessive supplements.

Illustration of the benefits of both vitamin A for hair, not just for the eyes (Freepik/stockking)How to use vitamin A for hair?

Vitamin A for hair can be obtained from food intake and certain care products. Some hair care products contain derivatives of vitamin A which are intended to help maintain scalp health. In addition, there are also vitamin A supplements that are used to help meet daily nutritional needs. However, the use of products and supplements still needs to be carried out according to recommendations.

Using too much vitamin A can actually cause bad effects on the hair, reported Byrdie, Wednesday, May 20. Because vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin, excess can accumulate in the body. In some conditions, too much vitamin A can even trigger hair loss and other health problems. That's why the use of vitamin A should remain in a balanced amount.

Do you need to take vitamin A every day?

The body does need vitamin A every day, but the amount does not need to be excessive. Most people actually get vitamin A from everyday food without the need for special supplements. If your diet is balanced enough, vitamin A needs are usually well met. Supplements are generally only needed in certain conditions according to the advice of health workers.

Maintaining hair health does not only depend on one product or one type of vitamin. A combination of nutritious diet, proper hair care, and adequate intake of vitamin A for hair can help hair stay healthy and strong. So, if you want to have better maintained hair, start by paying attention to the body's nutritional needs as a whole.