DEAR READER:
While no formal studies have been conducted, there are reports of pregnant women who have taken prenatal vitamins and have noticed an increase in hair thickness and growth.

Prenatal vitamins differ from regular multi-vitamins in that they contain elevated amounts of calcium, iron and folic acid. An increase in calcium is required because a woman needs stronger bones to be able to carry the additional weight of a baby to full-term. Additional iron is necessary because it helps the body make new blood to carry oxygen and nutrients to the fetus. Folic acid has been proven to prevent spina bifida, a neural tube defect.

Folic acid is one of the B complex vitamins available in many hair-growth formulas on the market today. It is reported to cause hair to grow faster, and the strands to become thicker. According to several hair loss experts and dermatologists there are various ways to treat hair loss. Rogaine is an excellent choice but if you choose to go a more natural route, they recommend that blood tests be done to rule out anemia, vitamin B12 deficiency and copper deficiency. Biotin, B vitamins, iron, and omega 3 fatty acids (such as omega 3 oil) are all necessary for proper hair, skin and nail health. Saw palmetto has shown promise in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia which is caused by the some of the same hormones that cause hair loss.

If you choose to try a vitamin regimen I recommend you use a multi-vitamin since you are not pregnant. If you want to read more about natural hair loss treatments, I recommend you go to www.WebMD.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/hair-loss/features/treating-hair-loss-naturally?page=1. Let me know how you make out.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Fads: Vitamins and Minerals”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped, number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

They work great! My hair has started to come back thicker, stronger and healthier than before. I also use TreSemme hair spray and have found that it is not sticky like other products and doesn’t alter the beneficial effects of the shampoo and conditioner. I would like to thank the reader for the suggestion and you for being brave enough to print it in your column. Thank you!

DEAR READER:
I have had several letters similar to yours from readers who have success with the TreSemme products. Like everything else, it does not work for everyone but thankfully there are other options. Other seemingly effective treatments (based on the letters I have received) include taking a daily folic acid supplement or B-complex tablet. Folic acid is one of the B-vitamins which may explain why the B-complex is also effective.

Hair loss, especially in women, can be devastating and many hair replacement techniques are costly. Simple home remedies are more preferable and I am happy to say work for many.