Which vitamin is better for hair loss—vitamin B2 or vitamin B6?

Hair loss refers to the shedding of hair. It is normal for hair to shed naturally during the catagen (regression) or telogen (resting) phases—this is a physiological phenomenon. However, losing more than 100 hairs per day is considered pathological hair loss, which may lead to noticeable thinning of the hair. So, for hair loss, should one take vitamin B₂ or vitamin B₆?

Should one take vitamin B₂ or vitamin B₆ for hair loss?

Hair loss manifests in several forms. One type is dry-type alopecia—commonly referred to as “hair shedding”—characterized by minimal scalp oiliness. Another is seborrheic alopecia, marked by excessive scalp sebum production alongside hair loss. For dry-type alopecia, vitamin supplementation is generally unnecessary; however, for seborrheic alopecia, vitamin B₆ is frequently prescribed. Long-term intake of vitamin B₆ helps regulate sebum production.

In addition to vitamin B₆, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy is also highly effective for treating seborrheic alopecia. TCM formulations often include herbs that nourish the liver and kidneys and regulate qi and blood. Both seborrheic and dry-type alopecia benefit from dietary inclusion of hair-healthy foods such as black sesame seeds, walnuts, and black soybeans.

Regardless of the type of hair loss, maintaining proper scalp health is essential. Gently massaging the scalp with the fingertips can improve local blood circulation and thereby support hair growth. When washing hair, opt for mild, non-irritating shampoos to avoid chemical irritation of the scalp, which could exacerbate hair loss. We hope this information proves helpful!