Numerous studies suggest that individuals can take vitamin E for hair loss, as the compound has been noted to promote both hair growth and health. The amount individuals should use to counteract hair loss, however, is open to debate — while some reports confirm improved hair growth with over 800 IU of vitamin E hair treatment, other findings show that an overdose of vitamin E might negatively affect growth. Supplementation with vitamin E for hair loss can be done through diet modification and oral or topical medication.

Although research has yet to determine the exact mechanism in which ingested vitamin E can help prevent hair loss, some experts believe that the vitamin is capable of healing damaged capillaries in the scalp. This, in turn, improves circulation to the area, stimulating hair follicles and encouraging growth. Improved circulation also facilitates healing from multiple types of damage, including dryness and chemical treatments. Individuals can take hair loss treatments in the form of pharmaceutical supplements such as vitamin E capsules, or by including more vitamin E-rich foods such as spinach and broccoli in their diets.

Individuals can also benefit by topical applications of vitamin E for hair loss. The vitamin can work in two ways when applied directly onto hair: by providing immediate nourishment to dry and damaged hair and by acting as a shield against further damage. Topical application can prevent hair loss by rejuvenating and strengthening damaged hair.

The most common hair treatment methods using vitamin E for hair loss involve direct topical application. Many commercial hair care products in the market are formulated with vitamin E compounds; individuals can choose to wash their hair with vitamin E-enriched shampoo, or use a leave-on vitamin E conditioner. Vitamin E oil is another common topical treatment.

Despite their popularity, topical vitamin E products have a tendency to produce less favorable results as compared to those attained by ingested treatments. Capillary repair is only possible if the vitamin is directly absorbed into the system; topical application can prevent hair loss, but it cannot promote hair growth. In addition, topical application is more prone to human error — many individuals tend to rinse treatments out before they can be properly absorbed by the hair.

Some experts also warn about the possibility of overdosing on vitamin E supplements. Several studies have found evidence to support that an overabundance of the vitamin can actually worsen cases of hair loss. As a result, the recommended dosage of vitamin E for hair loss varies greatly. A number of experts estimate that 400 to 600 IU of supplementation is the ideal dosage when taking vitamin E for hair loss.