Thinning hair solutions: Do supplements or topical treatments work best?

Confused about tackling thinning hair? We break down the science behind supplements and topical treatments – plus expert tips for a fuller mane.

Hair thinning is one of those silent struggles that can chip away at your confidence. Notice a receding hairline or a trail of hair on the floor? We’re not fans of that. The reality is, hair loss can happen for a variety of reasons including genetics, hormonal imbalances, stress, nutritional deficiencies, or even over-styling and harsh chemical treatments. Each strand of hair is part of a delicate cycle, and when that balance is disrupted, thinning or shedding can occur.

The next step is finding a solution. But here’s where things get overwhelming: the market is flooded with countless products and treatments. From shampoos and serums promising instant results, to supplements, laser combs, and in-clinic procedures, the choices are endless – and let’s face it, confusing. Do you need something natural or scientifically proven? Or should you focus on scalp health or internal nutrition? It’s no wonder so many people feel lost when tackling this issue.

Let’s untangle the options with expert insights from renowned aesthetic doctor Dr. Gerard Ee of The Clifford Clinic.

Supplements: Nurturing hair from the inside out

Ever heard the phrase “you are what you eat”? When it comes to hair, that’s true too. Supplements are designed to address nutritional gaps that often play a role in hair thinning. Dr. Ee, who specialises in minimally invasive treatments, points out, “Supplements can be particularly effective for early-stage hair loss by providing essential nutrients that strengthen hair from within.”

Take MIRIQA^®’s Professional Hair Nutrition Supplement, for instance. This patented hair growth formula (from $128 for a box of 60 capsules) is backed with powerhouse ingredients like tocotrienol, tripeptide collagen, keratin forte, biotin, and saw palmetto berries. These ingredients work together to nourish the scalp by promoting cell renewal, strengthening hair follicles, and improving scalp circulation – creating the perfect environment for healthy hair growth.

Formulated to reduce hair loss, boost growth, and enhance shine, the brand achieves all this without relying on drugs. What sets it apart is its ability to deliver noticeable results over time: reduced hair fall in as little as one to two months, followed by thicker, stronger, and shinier hair in the months to come (as soon as three months). Trusted by countless users and supported by glowing reviews, this supplement offers a holistic and reliable solution for anyone looking to improve their hair health.

Topical treatments: Giving your scalp the TLC it deserves

While supplements work internally, topical treatments focus on the scalp (the foundation of healthy hair). Dr. Ee explains, “Effective topical treatments often include ingredients like minoxidil or natural alternatives like rosemary and peppermint, which improve scalp circulation and combat DHT, a hormone linked to hair loss.”

Popular examples include minoxidil-based solutions, which are clinically proven to stimulate hair follicles, or natural options such as serums infused with rosemary oil, peppermint extract, or caffeine to boost blood flow to the scalp.

By targeting scalp health directly, these treatments complement the internal benefits of supplements, offering a comprehensive approach to combating hair loss.

MIRIQA^®’s Keep It Healthy Hair Serum ($49) fits the bill perfectly. This lightweight, rinse-free formula is 100% drug-free and combines natural ingredients like tocopheryl, keratin, biotin, and botanical extracts such as chamomile, burdock root, rosemary leaf, and peppermint to nourish and revitalise your scalp without irritating it. Great for those with a sensitive or itchy scalp. It also improves microcirculation, soothes inflammation, and recharges hair follicles for denser, healthier hair growth.

Unlike many serums focused solely on hair strands, this Japanese-formulated serum targets the scalp, creating the ideal environment for luscious locks. Its refreshing, non-greasy texture absorbs quickly, making it a fuss-free yet highly effective addition to your routine. But you’ll need to be consistent with the application and in 30 to 90 days, you’ll notice thicker, denser locks.

Teamwork makes the dream work

We’ve teased it above but here’s the thing: hair care doesn’t have to be an either-or decision. Dr. Ee suggests combining approaches for the best results. “Using a supplement alongside a targeted serum creates a synergistic effect. You’re addressing hair health from the inside and outside, which can significantly improve outcomes.”

This one-two punch not only strengthens thinning hair but also revitalises it, helping you achieve a fuller, healthier mane over time. But you’ve got a part to play in this lifestyle change too.

Good habits for healthier hair

Let’s not forget the basics. What you eat, how you sleep, and even how you style your hair can all impact its health. Dr. Ee recommends a nutrient-rich diet with plenty of iron, zinc, and protein. He also suggests avoiding excessive heat styling and investing in small changes, like switching to a silk pillowcase, which can reduce breakage.

If you’re a night owl, you might want to rethink those late-night habits – your hair could be paying the price. Skimping on sleep doesn’t just leave you groggy; it also disrupts the body’s natural repair and regeneration processes, which are in full swing during those precious hours of rest. This can mess with hormone balance, reduce blood flow to your scalp, and throw off the hair growth cycle, ultimately weakening your follicles and leading to thinning hair.

Psst: if insomnia keeps you up at night, MIRIQA^®’s even got a sleep supplement to help you clock in your ZZZs.

Find what works best for you

Navigating the world of hair care can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Consulting a specialist can help you create a personalised plan tailored to your unique needs, whether you’re just noticing the first signs of thinning or dealing with more advanced hair loss.

Hair thinning isn’t a battle you have to face silently – it’s time to reclaim your confidence and transform your hair health from the inside out. With MIRIQA^®’s scientifically-backed hair supplements and rejuvenating hair serum, you can nourish your scalp, strengthen follicles, and support the growth of thicker, healthier hair.

By combining internal nutrition with targeted scalp care, they deliver a holistic approach to hair health, offering the best of both worlds. Remember, consistency is key – commit to these small but impactful steps, and your dream of a fuller, stronger mane will be closer than ever!

This post is in partnership with MIRIQA^®.