Hair gummies: Fad or fact?

In the pursuit of healthy hair, skin, nails and more, many people turn to a quick and easy fix, in the form of gummies. Gaining popularity during the wellness craze during the pandemic, these gummy supplements are brightly packaged and sold to an unsuspecting audience, many of whom are young women. Most hair gummies contain Biotin, B complex, fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, and E, and trace elements like zinc and folic acid. While the ingredients vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, the main ingredients remain the same- gelatin, cornstarch, water and sugar. These large amounts of sugar present in the gummies make them palatable enough to be eaten daily.

However, as we know, overconsumption of sugar has significant side effects on our bodies and health. Apart from the sluggishness that comes with sugar crashes, it can also cause blood sugar spikes, which can cause insulin resistance, skin issues (Acanthosis Nigricans, skin tags), and tooth decay over time. Also, increased sugar consumption over a period of time can lead to the formation of Advanced Glycation End products (AGEs), which can speed up ageing. They are formed when protein or fat combines with sugar in the bloodstream. Lastly, they can often contribute to empty calories when the level of glucose is too high. It is extremely important, therefore, to check the ingredient list, as often the ingredient with the most potency is listed first, especially in the case of beauty products.

These self-proclaimed ‘candyceuticals’ can have many side effects if taken incorrectly. Overdoing vitamins can cause nausea, stomach upsets, bloating, and headaches. Additionally, depending on the cause of hair loss, one might not even need supplements. If hair loss is rooted in nutrient deficiency, the first way to battle it would be to increase the intake of that nutrient through food, multivitamins, or injectables. If the hair loss is due to an underlying illness like thyroid, supplements may not work or may not be enough to curb the issue. Qualified professionals can advise on appropriate multivitamins and consumables.

If one is keen to buy gummies, or are finding regular medicines hard to ingest, one must consider three factors before purchasing. The first is third-party testing, in which one must choose brands that offer third-party testing to ensure unbiased product quality and safety. The second is reading customer reviews which can provide insights into the effectiveness and potential side effects of the product. The third is to choose a brand that is transparent about their ingredients and sourcing practices. These brands tend to be a more reliable option when choosing gummies.
Most importantly, however, one must consult a certified medical professional before opting for gummies of any kind. A brand may not be the most aesthetically pleasing, but it could be the right option for you. Conducting research and speaking to a qualified professional can help one make the right choice and opt for a gummy or a supplement with long-term health benefits and not just a trend that can be detrimental to one’s health in the long run.

(Author: Dr Rikta Mohan, Dermatologist, Myrah Derma Med)