Fish oil is a commonly consumed dietary supplement rich in omega-3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients. It’s believed to promote overall health.
Proponents of natural medicine use fish oil to treat a range of symptoms, from mental health conditions to chronic diseasesTrusted Source.
Since the omega-3s in fish oil are believed to help to regulate the body’s natural functions, advocates of fish oil suggest that it may also:
- trigger hair growth
- promote hair strength
- nourish hair follicles
Keep reading to learn more about the potential benefits of fish oil for hair, and how to use.
According to Harvard University, every year Americans spend over $1 billion on over-the-counter (OTC) fish oil.
Fish oil is an oil or fat that’s extracted from fish tissue. It’s one of the more popular dietary supplements due to its high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids.
Our body requires omega-3 fatty acids to function correctly, but we cannot synthesize them on our own. In order to obtain these nutrients, we have to consume them through diet and supplements.
In addition to omega-3’s, fish oil also contains a number of fats and essential vitamins.
What omega-3s can and can’t help with
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative HealthTrusted Source, omega-3s:
- do not reduce the risk of heart disease
- can reduce triglyceride levels
- may relieve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms
- can slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration
Studies of omega-3s indicated either inconclusive or negative results for other conditions including:
Many people consume fish or fish oil supplements to promote hair growth and prevent hair loss, suggesting that the omega-3 found in fish oil:
- provides essential proteins and nutrients to hair follicles and skin
- prevents hair follicle inflammation — a factor that can directly contribute to hair loss
- promotes circulation in the scalp that may trigger hair growth
Although there’s currently not a sufficient amount of clinical research to fully support these claims, there has been positive research, including:
- A 2015 studyTrusted Source indicated that women taking a fish oil supplement experienced significantly increased hair growth and reduced hair loss.
- A 2018 studyTrusted Source indicated that when mackerel-derived fermented fish oil (FFO) extract was topically applied to mice it significantly stimulated hair growth.
- A 2015 studyTrusted Source indicated that women experienced reduced hair loss and increased hair density when taking a supplement of antioxidants along with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
Fish oil advocates anecdotally suggest topical application of fish oil may help add luster and shine to your hair as well as making it healthier.
If you decide to apply fish oil directly to your scalp, be aware that fish oil may have an odor considered unpleasant to you or others.
