6 Home Remedies for Low Carb & Keto Induced Hair Loss 💇🏿
Because We’ve Been There
I’ve experienced keto-related hair loss firsthand — severe shedding that left me counting hundreds of hairs each day and, after a bad dye job, losing about two-thirds of my hair. It was frightening and stressful, but ultimately temporary. After trying many approaches, I found a practical routine that stopped the heavy shedding within two weeks and restored my hair over the following months.
Important: excessive hair loss can sometimes indicate an underlying medical issue such as thyroid dysfunction. If you suspect this, get a medical check-up. Stress also contributes to hair loss, so managing anxiety and avoiding panic helps break the cycle.
Below are six home remedies that helped me and others facing hair thinning on low-carb or ketogenic diets. I place MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) at the top of the list because of its consistent positive effects for many people.
1. MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) 🏆
MSM is a sulfur-containing compound found naturally in small amounts in some fruits, vegetables, and animal foods. Sulfur is essential for building keratin, the structural protein in hair and nails. As a supplement, MSM supports connective tissue and may improve hair strength and reduce shedding.
Many people report noticeable results within a few weeks. A common starting dose is 1,000 mg per day; some increase gradually up to 3,000–4,000 mg if needed. Some evidence and anecdotal reports suggest taking MSM with vitamin C improves absorption, so pairing it with a small glass of lemon water in the morning is a simple approach. MSM can also increase energy in some users, so morning dosing often works well.
2. Bone Broth 🍖
Bone broth is rich in collagen and amino acids that support hair structure and growth. For keto dieters, homemade bone broth made from grass-fed bones provides superior nutrient density compared with many store-bought varieties. Regularly incorporating broth into your meals can help supply building blocks for hair repair. Pairing collagen-rich foods with sulfur donors like MSM may be particularly beneficial.
3. Biotin (Vitamin B7)
Biotin supports skin and hair cell health and is a widely used supplement for hair thinning. Many over-the-counter hair formulas include biotin along with other B vitamins. Note that some people experience skin breakouts with biotin; if that happens, stop and evaluate. You can also boost B vitamins through food sources — nutritional yeast is an easy, keto-friendly option that adds B-complex nutrients without supplementation side effects for some people.
4. Zinc 🎃
Zinc is an essential mineral for hair health. Deficiency has been linked to hair loss and can affect thyroid function, which in turn influences hair growth. While zinc supplements are available, you can increase dietary zinc by adding foods like pumpkin seeds, which are among the best natural sources and easy to include in low-carb diets.
5. Coconut Oil 🌴
A healthy, hydrated scalp supports healthier hair. Massaging warm coconut oil into the scalp can moisturize dry skin, reduce breakage, and condition hair strands. Apply before washing and experiment with timing: a short treatment before shampooing or a few hours left on the scalp may work well; leaving it on overnight can be effective for deep conditioning but may be greasy for some people.
6. Onion Juice
Onion juice is an unconventional but time-tested topical remedy. Its high sulfur content may help stimulate blood circulation to hair follicles and support keratin formation. To use, grate an onion, squeeze out the juice, and apply it to the scalp for a couple of hours (or overnight if you can tolerate the odor). Rinse thoroughly and shampoo afterward.
Final tips:
- Check thyroid function and other basic bloodwork if hair loss is severe or persistent.
- Reduce stress where possible — rest, sleep, and stress-reduction techniques help hair recovery.
- Focus on nutrient-dense foods on keto: adequate protein, collagen, zinc, and B vitamins support hair health.
- When introducing supplements, start with recommended doses and monitor how your body responds.
These remedies won’t guarantee immediate miracles for everyone, but many people on low-carb or ketogenic diets have found them helpful. If hair loss continues despite trying these approaches, consult a healthcare professional or a dermatologist for personalized evaluation and treatment.