Best Vitamins for Hair Growth in the Philippines

Written by Hair Health Team

Published 06/25/2025

Updated 07/07/2025

Here's what we'll cover

In a country like the Philippines where sun exposure, stress, and urban pollution are part of daily life, maintaining strong, healthy hair goes beyond using styling products. Hair health begins within and that means ensuring you're getting the right nutrients to support hair growth, reduce shedding, and improve scalp condition. Hair loss affects Filipino men and women alike, often triggered by stress, poor diet, and environmental damage. According to this guide to hair loss for beginners, understanding both internal and external solutions is key to long-term results. This includes hair loss treatments, which combine vitamins and topical solutions tailored to Filipino needs.

Recent trends show an increasing number of Filipinos turning to holistic wellness. The link between gut health, stress, and hair loss is more prominent than ever. According to Ziering Medical, nutrient deficiencies are a common yet overlooked cause of hair shedding. Even Filipinos who eat well may lack key micronutrients due to absorption issues tied to stress and digestive health.

Understanding the Science of Hair Growth

Hair grows in a cycle composed of three phases:

Anagen: the growth phase (can last 2–7 years)
Catagen: the transitional phase (2–3 weeks)
Telogen: the resting/shedding phase (around 3 months)

Disruptions to this cycle, including nutrient deficiencies, can cause premature shedding or thinning. According to Healthline, proper nutrient intake can promote healthier follicles and extend the growth phase.

Signs You Might Need Hair Growth Supplements

You may want to consider boosting your nutrition with hair-specific vitamins if you experience signs like slower growth, brittle strands, or unusual shedding. These symptoms often indicate a lack of nutrients crucial to hair follicle function. Many users who integrate Andyou’s hair loss serum report improvements in just a few weeks. Additional signs include increased hair fall in the shower, a thinning crown, or noticeably slower regrowth. Hair changes due to stress or illness may also benefit from targeted supplementation.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D deficiency is surprisingly common in tropical countries. While Filipinos receive sun year-round, indoor lifestyles, sunscreen use, and naturally darker skin tones limit our vitamin D synthesis. Vitamin D stimulates hair follicle cycling. An article in Medical News Today showed a direct link between low vitamin D levels and hair loss conditions. In cities, smog can block UVB rays, so even regular sun exposure might not be enough. To support your levels, get 10–15 minutes of early morning sunlight daily, eat more fatty fish and egg yolks, and consider supplementation with medical guidance.

Biotin (Vitamin B7)

Biotin supports keratin infrastructure, the protein that makes up your hair. Deficiency may result in weak strands or hair thinning. Biotin-rich foods include cooked eggs, nuts, leafy greens, and sweet potatoes. It’s also found in some topical products developed for early-stage hair loss among Filipino men. Biotin improves skin and nail strength too. According to WebMD, it’s more effective when paired with other B-complex vitamins.

Iron

Iron carries oxygen to hair roots. Without it, follicles enter the shedding phase prematurely. According to Harvard Health, iron deficiency is one of the most common causes of hair loss in women. Incorporate iron through red meats, liver, spinach, malunggay, and iron-fortified cereals. Pair with calamansi or other vitamin C-rich foods to aid absorption.

Zinc

Zinc contributes to tissue growth and hair follicle repair. It also controls oil production and reduces scalp inflammation. A deficiency may lead to telogen effluvium and dandruff. Zinc is especially important for men’s hormonal balance. A study in the Harley Street Hair Clinic found low zinc levels were significantly associated with hair loss. Local foods like pumpkin seeds, cashews, and shellfish can support zinc intake.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A helps with sebum production and scalp hydration. But excess intake can cause hair shedding. According to the National Institutes of Health, food-based sources are safer than high-dose supplements. Best choices include squash, sweet potatoes, alugbati, kangkong, and fortified milk. The common Filipino diet includes a variety of yellow and green vegetables.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C helps in collagen formation and iron absorption, both vital for hair. It also protects follicles from oxidative stress. Local sources include calamansi, green mango, guava, and papaya. Deficiency may show up as brittle hair, easy bruising, or bleeding gums, all signs to watch for.

Niacin (Vitamin B3)

Niacin supports blood circulation in the scalp, enhancing nutrient delivery. Mild deficiency may lead to scalp flaking and slower growth. Eat more chicken, turkey, peanuts, brown rice, and mushrooms. Niacin also supports nervous system health, helping with stress-related hair loss.

Folate (Vitamin B9)

Folate aids in red blood cell production. Deficiency can lead to poor nutrient delivery to follicles and early graying. It’s commonly found in malunggay, legumes, asparagus, and citrus fruits. While folate is emphasized during pregnancy, it’s equally essential for overall hair and cell renewal.

When Diet Isn’t Enough

Even with healthy meals, stress and hormonal imbalance can limit nutrient absorption. In such cases, supplements help. Hair regrowth tablets usually contain DHT blockers like saw palmetto and a full vitamin profile. They're part of broader strategies to support scalp health and hair growth. You may also consider marine collagen to support keratin production, especially if you're in your 30s or beyond.

Other Nutrients That Support Hair Growth

Beyond vitamins, key nutrients include protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and collagen. These strengthen hair shafts, reduce inflammation, and maintain healthy follicles. You’ll find them in bone broth, marine collagen supplements, and oily fish like sardines and galunggong. Add chia seeds, flaxseed, and walnuts to increase healthy fat intake and improve scalp hydration.

Lifestyle Tips to Maximize Vitamin Absorption

For optimal absorption:

Reduce alcohol and smoking
Manage stress with physical activity or mindfulness
Separate caffeine from supplements by at least 1 hour
Stay hydrated

Lightly cook vegetables to preserve nutrients like vitamin C and folate. Traditional Filipino methods like steaming or sautéing in coconut oil are more nutrient-friendly than deep frying.

What Filipino Men Should Prioritize

Filipino men in their 20s or 30s should prioritize vitamin D, iron, and zinc. Use a mix of internal and topical products and maintain routines based on sleep, nutrition, and medical advice. Learn more through medically reviewed content in our Health Club. Whether you're commuting in Manila or working outdoors in the province, consistency with quality products and habits is key. Andyou offers localized solutions designed specifically for the Filipino lifestyle

Hair Health Team

The &you Hair Health Team delivers expert, science-backed care for hair loss. With personalized plans, trusted treatments like Minoxidil and Finasteride, and ongoing support, we help Filipinos take control of their hair health with confidence and clarity.