Skin, Hair & Nails Supplements: Which Ingredients Actually Have Evidence

The evidence is nutrient-specific: zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal skin, hair and nails; biotin contributes to the maintenance of normal skin and hair; and copper contributes to normal skin and hair pigmentation. Iron has important authorised roles in normal oxygen transport and energy-yielding metabolism, but it does not have an equivalent EU-authorised claim for the maintenance of normal skin, hair or nails. Collagen, keratin and mega-dose biotin dominate the marketing, but their prominence on a label is not proof of a better formula.

So this guide grades the common ingredients honestly: the well-evidenced core, the supporting cast, the popular-but-overhyped, and the things the evidence simply doesn’t support. By the end you’ll be able to read any “beauty” label — ours included — and tell substance from marketing.

First, how nutrition actually affects skin and hair

A key idea up front: nutrients help most when you’re short of them. Hair follicles and skin cells are among the most metabolically active tissues in the body, so they’re sensitive to shortfalls — but topping up a nutrient you already have enough of rarely adds extra benefit. That’s why “more ingredients at higher doses” is not automatically “better.” The goal is covering the gaps that matter, at sensible doses.

What authorised EU claims actually support

Supporting cast: useful in context

B vitamins B1, B6 and B12 contribute to normal energy-yielding metabolism and normal functioning of the nervous system, while iodine contributes to the maintenance of normal skin. These are supporting physiological roles, not claims that the nutrients make hair grow. The current product also contains vitamin D3, pantothenic acid and copper; it does not contain vitamin C, selenium, collagen or keratin.

Popular but overhyped — handle with skepticism

A few ingredients dominate marketing despite thinner evidence:

None of these are necessarily useless — but they’re frequently the marketing star while the genuinely declared amounts and permitted nutrient claims are afterthoughts. Read the quantities and the precise claim for each nutrient, not just the front of the pack.

What the evidence does NOT support

Honesty builds trust, so let’s be plain: taking large doses of a single nutrient you’re not short on rarely helps. No supplement overrides genetics, hormones (such as in female- or male-pattern hair loss), thyroid problems, or medical causes of hair loss. And no pill substitutes for the basics — adequate protein, overall good nutrition, and managing stress. If hair shedding is sudden, patchy or severe, see a doctor before buying another supplement.

How to read a skin, hair & nails label

How Frank Fruities is formulated

Frank Fruities Skin, Hair & Nails reflects these nutrient-specific roles: zinc contributes to normal skin, hair and nails; biotin contributes to the maintenance of normal skin and hair; and copper contributes to normal skin and hair pigmentation. Iron contributes to normal oxygen transport and energy-yielding metabolism. The formula also contains niacin and vitamin A, which contribute to normal skin, plus vitamin E, which contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress.

Made from real fruit juice concentrates — no added sugar, no gelatine, no artificial preservatives — and third-party tested. In 2024, it was certified for quality and safety by the Swiss Nutrition and Health Foundation. The aim isn’t the longest ingredient list; it’s clearly declared nutrients at sensible doses in a form you’ll keep taking.

See the full formula ›

Frequently asked questions

Which nutrient is best for skin, hair and nails?

There is no single “best” nutrient. Zinc has authorised claims for the maintenance of normal skin, hair and nails, while biotin has authorised claims for the maintenance of normal skin and hair. Copper’s authorised claims concern normal skin and hair pigmentation. Iron should not be presented as having the same direct claim.

Do skin, hair and nails supplements actually work?

Eligible nutrients can support the normal functions covered by their authorised claims. That does not mean a supplement treats hair loss or improves skin, hair or nails beyond normal in everyone who takes it.

How long before I see results?

There is no universal evidence-based timeline for a general skin, hair and nails supplement. Results depend on diet, nutrient status and the cause of the concern; persistent or sudden changes should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Is collagen worth taking for skin and hair?

Some studies suggest oral collagen may modestly support skin elasticity and hydration, but evidence quality varies and it isn’t a treatment for hair loss.

Can I just eat my way to better hair?

Often, yes — a balanced diet with enough protein, iron and zinc supports hair well. Supplements are most useful for filling specific, confirmed gaps.

Are more ingredients always better?

No. A long list at token doses is worse than a few well-chosen nutrients at sensible amounts. Read the quantities, not just the names.