Clinical evaluation of a plant-based supplement on hair, skin, nail health, and psychological well-being: A 90-day observational study

INTRODUCTION

Hair thinning, brittle nails, and premature skin aging are common concerns that affect both men and women, often resulting from nutritional deficiencies, environmental stress, hormonal imbalance, and oxidative damage.^[1] Biotin (Vitamin B7) is a water-soluble B vitamin essential for the metabolism of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. It supports keratin production and cellular growth, playing a key role in maintaining healthy hair, skin, and nails. While severe deficiency is rare, mild or subclinical deficiency is common and can lead to hair thinning, brittle nails, and dry, irritated skin.^[1,2] The global prevalence of these issues, especially in younger populations and women, is rising. Epidemiological studies have shown that around 50% of women will experience hair thinning by the age of 50, and nail brittleness affects approximately 20% of the adult population.^[3,4] In addition, the natural aging process contributes to reduced collagen synthesis, leading to diminished skin elasticity and the early appearance of wrinkles.^[5] Diagnosis of underlying causes includes a combination of clinical examination, nutritional assessment, and in some cases, laboratory testing to rule out systemic conditions such as thyroid dysfunction, anemia, or biotinide deficiency. For many patients, however, the symptoms are nutritional in origin and respond well to targeted supplementation.^[6] Conventional treatments for hair and skin issues often include topical therapies, corticosteroids, retinoids, and synthetic multivitamin supplements. However, these may come with variable efficacy and potential side effects. Recent evidence supports the use of natural biotin, derived from plant sources such as Sesbania grandiflora, as a more bioavailable and safer alternative compared to synthetic formulations.^[7]

Nutraceuticals, comprising bioactive compounds derived from food sources, have gained increasing attention for their potential to support hair, skin, nail health, and healthy aging, offering benefits that go beyond basic nutrition by enhancing structural integrity, appearance, and cellular function.^[8,9] Nutraceuticals offer a safer alternative to conventional pharmacological therapies, as they are generally well-tolerated, derived from natural sources, and associated with minimal to no adverse effects. Unlike synthetic drugs, which may lead to long-term side effects or dependency, nutraceuticals support physiological functions without causing harm, making them ideal for long-term use in preventive and supportive care.^[10,11] Collagen peptides support skin elasticity and hydration,^[5,12] while vitamin C enhances collagen synthesis and offers antioxidant protection.^[13] Amino acids help enhance skin elasticity and alleviate multiple skin concerns,^[14] working synergistically to improve the strength, texture, and resilience of hair, skin, and nails.

The present study aims to evaluate the efficacy of a natural, multifunctional approach to enhancing hair, skin, and nail health through the use of a plant-based supplement. This advanced formulation delivers a high potency of biotin (10,000 mcg), along with collagen peptides, vitamin C, glycoproteins, and amino acids, all sourced from natural ingredients. These components work synergistically to promote keratin production, support collagen synthesis, improve skin elasticity, and strengthen overall dermal structure and function.

The combined action of biotin and collagen offers both cosmetic and dermatological benefits. Biotin contributes to hair health by enlarging hair follicles, resulting in thicker, fuller, and more voluminous hair. Meanwhile, collagen enhances skin quality by increasing hydration, minimizing hyperpigmentation, reducing pore size, softening wrinkles, and boosting elasticity. Together, they provide a holistic solution for anti-aging and esthetic improvement.

This study specifically evaluates the effectiveness of plant-based supplements in individuals presenting with concerns such as hair thinning, brittle nails, and early signs of skin aging. Conducted over a 90-day intervention period, the study monitored changes in clinical markers including hair fall, hair density, skin hydration, wrinkle depth, and nail strength. The findings aim to establish this plant-based formulation as a safe, well-tolerated, and effective natural alternative to conventional dermatological treatments, supporting comprehensive aesthetic and skin wellness.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 30 individuals, including 18 males and 12 females with a mean age of 36.9 ± 9.2 years, participated in an observational study designed to assess the efficacy and safety of a plant-based supplement. Participants presented with various dermatological and esthetic concerns such as hair thinning, excessive hair fall, brittle nails, dull skin, and early signs of aging. Selection was based on both clinical symptoms and self-reported concerns, with all participants screened to exclude those with major dermatological or systemic disorders that could influence outcomes.

The study employed a prospective, open-label, single-arm observational design over 90 days. Each participant was administered one tablet daily containing 10,000 mcg of plant-based biotin, along with collagen peptides, vitamin C, glycoproteins, and amino acids derived from S. grandiflora and carrot extract. Baseline evaluations were performed before the intervention, and follow-ups were conducted on day 30, day 60, and day 90 to monitor adherence and progress. Assessment methods combined clinical observations, instrumental diagnostics, and participant-reported feedback to capture a comprehensive view of outcomes.

Key parameters included hair fall reduction assessed using the “60-s hair comb test” and self-reporting; hair density and growth rate evaluated through digital phototrichogram analysis; and hair texture graded by dermatologists using standardized scoring systems. Skin quality, including hydration, pigmentation, elasticity, and wrinkle depth, was analyzed using digital imaging tools. Nail growth and strength were measured through photographic documentation and visual grading.

Throughout the study, no adverse events or side effects such as scalp irritation, redness, or itching were reported, highlighting the high tolerability of the product. This comprehensive study design facilitated a thorough assessment of the product’s efficacy and safety, reinforcing its potential as a natural, well-tolerated, and effective nutraceutical solution for enhancing hair, skin, and nail health in a general adult population.

RESULTS

Improvement in hair fall reduction

A significant and progressive reduction in hair fall was observed over the 90-day supplementation period. By day 30, hair fall had decreased by 90%, demonstrating a strong initial response. This improvement continued, with a 95% reduction by day 60 and reaching 99% by day 90, as illustrated in Figure 1. Hair fall evaluation was done using the 60-s combing.

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Figure 1:

Percentage improvement in hair fall.

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Percent improvement in hair density

Phototrichogram analysis showed a steady increase in hair density over 90 days of treatment. No improvement was noted at baseline, but by day 30, density increased by 11 units, followed by 21 units on day 60, and reaching 30 units on day 90, reflecting a 30% improvement. These results suggest that the plant-based supplement effectively supports hair growth and scalp health over time, with no signs of decline during the study period shown in Figure 2.

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Figure 2:

Percentage improvement in hair density over 90 days as measured by phototrichogram.

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Improvement in hair growth

The hair growth rate was assessed at different time intervals over a 90-day period. As shown in Figure 3, there was a progressive improvement in hair growth over time. At day 30, the growth rate increased to 6%, followed by a further rise to 9% at day 60. By day 90, the hair growth rate reached 20%, indicating a significant improvement compared to baseline values. This suggests that the treatment was effective in stimulating hair growth over the observed period. The continuous upward trend in hair growth percentage underscores the potential cumulative effect of the intervention, with maximum efficacy observed at the end of the 90-day assessment.

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Figure 3:

Percentage change in hair growth rate over time.

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Enhancement of hair texture (%)

Hair texture improved progressively over the 90-day period, increasing from baseline to 12% at 30 days, 27% at 60 days, and reaching 61% by 90 days. This steady enhancement suggests a cumulative and time-dependent effect of the intervention. The marked improvement, particularly between 60 and 90 days, indicates potential accelerated benefits with continued use, as shown in Figure 4.

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Figure 4:

Percentage improvement in hair texture.

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Nail growth improvement (%)

Nail growth showed a steady improvement over the 90-day study period. At baseline, no change was observed. By day 30, nail growth had increased by 12%, rising to 21% at day 60 and reaching 40% by day 90. These results indicate a consistent upward trend in nail growth, with the highest gains observed between day 60 and day 90, as shown in Figure 5.

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Figure 5:

Percentage increase in nail growth.

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In addition to quantitative growth, dermatological assessment confirmed the enhanced esthetic appearance of the nails throughout the study. This suggests that the intervention not only stimulates nail growth but also contributes to healthier, more visually appealing nails. The combined improvement in the rate and appearance of nail growth supports the potential of this formulation for cosmetic and therapeutic use.

Improvement in hair density and coverage after treatment

Representative photographic evidence from study participants illustrates the visual impact of the plant-based intervention over a 90-day period. The top panel shows baseline conditions, highlighting noticeable hair thinning, widened part lines, and reduced scalp coverage. In contrast, the bottom panel, captured after 90 days of continuous supplementation, demonstrates marked improvements in hair density, coverage, and overall hair appearance. Participants exhibited visibly fuller, thicker hair with reduced signs of thinning and enhanced scalp concealment. These visual outcomes align with the quantitative findings of the study, supporting the efficacy of the intervention in promoting hair regrowth, improving follicular strength, and restoring scalp health over time, as shown in [Figure 6].

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Figure 6:

Improvement in hair density and coverage after treatment. (a) Participant 1 before treatment, (b) Participant 2 before treatment, (c) Participant 3 before treatment, (d) Participant 4 before treatment, (e) Participant 1 after treatment, (f) Participant 2 after treatment, (g) Participant 3 after treatment, (h) Participant 4 after treatment, (i) Participant 5 before treatment, (j) Participant 6 before treatment, (k) Participant 7 before treatment, (l) Participant 5 after treatment, (m) Participant 6 after treatment, (n) Participant 7 after treatment.

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Evaluation of hair growth progression over 90 days

Phototrichogram images show progressive hair growth over 90 days. At screening, low hair density and short shafts were visible. By day 30, the phototrichogram revealed increased hair length and early regrowth. After trimming, active follicles remained clearly visible. At day 60, further improvements in density and elongation were captured. Post-trim images confirmed sustained regrowth. By day 90, there was a marked increase in hair thickness, length, and scalp coverage, highlighting consistent follicular activation and the effectiveness of the treatment over time, as shown in [Figure 7].

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Figure 7:

Evaluation of hair growth progression. (a) During screening, (b) Day 30, (c) Day 30 (after cutting), (d) Day 60, (e) Day 60 (after cutting), (f) Day 90.

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Improvement in skin texture and wrinkle reduction over 60 days

A clear reduction in wrinkles and improvement in skin texture around the eyes were observed over a 60-day period, with fine lines visibly reduced and the skin appears smoother and more even by day 60. These visual improvements are supported by clinical data showing a 31.11% increase in hydration, a 31.15% decrease in hyperpigmentation, an 18.12% boost in elasticity, and reductions in pore size (9.14%), wrinkle length (19.19%), and roughness (17.39%). Overall, pore volume decreased by 31%, with a noticeable refinement in skin smoothness and clarity, as illustrated in Figure 8.

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Figure 8:

Improvement in skin texture and wrinkle reduction in (a) 0 days, (b) 30 days, (c) 60 days.

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DISCUSSION

This was a 90-day observational study assessing the impact of a plant-based supplement on the health of hair, skin, nails, and psychological well-being in adults.

Research conducted on the role of riboflavin, biotin, folate, and Vitamin B12 deficiencies suggests that hair loss is closely associated with their insufficiency. Moreover, iron, Vitamin D, folate, Vitamin B12, and selenium are involved in hair greying/whitening during childhood or early adulthood. Genetic biotin deficiency is associated with severe dermatitis and alopecia and acquired biotin deficiency is characterized by alopecia and brittle nails.^[1,15]

The results of the open-label, single-arm, clinical study were conducted on 32 participants to evaluate the efficacy and safety of test gummies in healthy adult participants with hair fall indicating that the gummies effectively promote hair growth and prevent hair loss. The anagen and telogen ratio (A: T ratio) hair density, hair growth, and hair thickness showed significant improvement. Hair fall reduction in hairs with bulbs and hairs without bulbs (i.e., broken hairs) was recorded. All subjects reported dense hair, good shininess, and a reduction in hair dullness and 93.75% of subjects reported full hair volume at the end of the study. Improvement in nail brittleness by 51.0%, nail growth by 1.17 folds, and nail health by 1.12 folds was also established.^[15] In line with these findings, participants in our study showed progressive improvements in hair fall and hair growth.

A previous double-blind, placebo-controlled study demonstrated that oral intake of specific bioactive collagen peptides significantly reduced eye wrinkle volume and increased dermal matrix components such as procollagen I and elastin in women aged 45–65 years. The 20% reduction in wrinkles and 65% increase in procollagen I highlight collagen’s potential in skin rejuvenation. These findings support the role of oral collagen supplementation in improving skin elasticity and reducing signs of aging. Our study observed similar improvements in skin texture, hydration, and wrinkle depth, suggesting synergistic benefits when collagen is combined with biotin, vitamin C, and amino acids.^[5]

Vitamin C is a vital micronutrient present in high concentrations in the skin, where it plays a key role in stimulating collagen synthesis and protecting against oxidative stress and ultraviolet (UV)-induced damage. Pullar et al. emphasized that while topical vitamin C applications are common, optimizing dietary intake may offer more sustained and systemic benefits for skin health.^[13] In line with this, our study demonstrated significant improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkle reduction, suggesting that oral supplementation with vitamin C, especially when combined with biotin, collagen peptides, and amino acids can effectively support dermal structure and function from within.

The study by Kim et al. demonstrates that a formulation containing amino acids, copper, and hyaluronic acid significantly enhances collagen and elastin synthesis in dermal fibroblasts.^[14] This supports the use of amino acids as key modulators in restoring ECM integrity and improving skin elasticity and density.

Previous study highlights that cutaneous aging involves both intrinsic and photo-induced mechanisms contributing to dermal degeneration. Reduced collagen biosynthesis and fibroblast activity lead to dermal thinning and poor wound healing. In addition, disruption in the structural integrity and organization of the elastic fiber network alters the biomechanical properties of the skin, manifesting clinically as sagging, reduced elasticity, and poor tensile strength. These findings highlight the importance of targeting both collagen production and elastic fiber preservation in interventions aimed at mitigating age-related cutaneous decline. Our intervention specifically addresses these mechanisms by promoting collagen synthesis and preserving elastic fiber integrity, thereby improving skin firmness, elasticity, and overall dermal health.^[16]

This 90-day observational study found that a plant-based supplement containing biotin, collagen peptides, vitamin C, glycoproteins, and amino acids significantly improved hair, skin, and nail health. The results align with current literature supporting the role of nutraceuticals in esthetic dermatology. Improvements were progressive and consistent, with no adverse effects reported, indicating good safety and tolerability. Strengths include comprehensive clinical, instrumental, and psychological assessment. However, the short duration restricts insights into long-term effects. Future research should involve randomized, controlled trials to explore underlying mechanisms and long-term efficacy.

CONCLUSION

This 90-day observational study demonstrated that a plant-based supplement significantly improved a range of aesthetic and physiological parameters. By day 90, participants experienced a remarkable 99% reduction in hair fall, along with a 30% increase in hair density and a 20% improvement in hair growth rate. Hair texture also showed a notable enhancement of up to 61%, while hair retention, assessed using the 60-s hair comb test, improved by 35–55%. Nail growth increased by 40%, reflecting both quantitative and qualitative improvements. In terms of skin health, hydration levels increased by 31.11%, pigmentation was reduced by 31.15%, elasticity improved by 18.12%, and wrinkle length decreased by 19.19%. In addition, there was a 31% reduction in pore volume, contributing to an overall refinement of skin texture and clarity. Participants reported visible improvements in skin smoothness, reduced signs of aging, and healthier nail appearance. Importantly, no adverse effects were observed throughout the study, indicating the supplement’s high level of safety and tolerability. These findings support the therapeutic potential of plant-based nutraceuticals in addressing not only cosmetic concerns but also the psychosocial aspects of wellness, including enhanced self-esteem and overall well-being.