Hair Skin & Nails
Swanson
Hair Skin & Nails
4.7
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(3284 ratings)
Horsetail 250 mg
Choline 50 mg
Cysteine 100 mg
PABA 25 mg
Score 55.0
This Swanson supplement combines several ingredients traditionally associated with hair, skin, and nail health, such as Horsetail (for silica), MSM, and L-Cysteine, at a very affordable price point. While it effectively targets these beauty-related goals, its formulation provides insufficient dosages or relevant ingredients for the broader range of stated goals like brain health, metabolism, or immunity. It offers good value for its core beauty claims but falls short as a comprehensive multi-purpose supplement.
Quantity: 60 Tablet(s)Servings size: 1 Tablet(s) (60 servings)
Selected goals:
Other goals:
Joint Health
Skin Health
Hair Health
Mood Support
Stress Relief
leaderboard Score 55.0
This Swanson supplement combines several ingredients traditionally associated with hair, skin, and nail health, such as Horsetail (for silica), MSM, and L-Cysteine, at a very affordable price point. While it effectively targets these beauty-related goals, its formulation provides insufficient dosages or relevant ingredients for the broader range of stated goals like brain health, metabolism, or immunity. It offers good value for its core beauty claims but falls short as a comprehensive multi-purpose supplement.
insights Analysis
The Swanson Hair Skin & Nails product (ID: 187402) is positioned as a broad-spectrum supplement targeting a wide array of health goals from cosmetic to cognitive and metabolic functions. Its primary strength lies in its blend of Horsetail extract, MSM, and L-Cysteine, which are well-regarded for their roles in supporting the structural integrity and appearance of hair, skin, and nails. The inclusion of Horsetail provides natural silica, known to strengthen connective tissues, while MSM is a sulfur compound vital for collagen and keratin formation. L-Cysteine is an amino acid crucial for keratin production in hair and nails, and also involved in antioxidant processes.
However, the product attempts to address a multitude of additional goals, including brain health, cognitive support, mental focus, productivity boost, metabolism boost, bone health, immunity, and detoxification. For many of these broader goals, the ingredient dosages (e.g., 25mg Inositol, 50mg Choline for cognitive support, 35mg Calcium for bone health) are considerably lower than what is typically recommended or found in specialized supplements for those purposes. Nutritionists and online reviews often emphasize higher potencies for meaningful effects in these areas. While Choline and Inositol do have roles in brain function, these specific amounts are more indicative of general nutritional support rather than targeted 'boosts.' The product's value is primarily concentrated on its beauty-specific components, offering a cost-effective option for consumers focused solely on those benefits, as reflected in its positive reviews for hair, skin, and nail improvements.
- Cost-effective per serving, making it accessible for budget-conscious consumers.
- Contains well-known ingredients for hair, skin, and nail support, including Horsetail (for silica), MSM, and L-Cysteine.
- High review count suggests general user satisfaction with its beauty-related benefits for its core purpose.
- Many of the stated goals (Brain Health, Cognitive Support, Mental Focus, Productivity Boost, Metabolism Boost, Immunity, Detoxification) are not adequately supported by the included ingredients or their dosages.
- The dosage of Calcium (35mg) is extremely low for providing meaningful support for Bone Health, making that claim largely symbolic.
- Dosages of Choline (50mg), Inositol (25mg), PABA (25mg), and L-Cysteine (100mg) are lower than found in many dedicated or more potent supplements for their respective functions.
- Consumers primarily seeking benefits for brain health, metabolism, or immunity should look for more specialized supplements with higher, clinically relevant dosages of appropriate ingredients.
- Individuals with specific dietary needs for calcium should not rely on this product for significant bone support due to its minimal content.
$7.99($0.13 per serving)
 iHerb | $ 7.99 | |
 Walmart | $ 12.09 |
bolt Effectiveness for goals
MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) is a source of organic sulfur, a mineral crucial for the production of collagen and keratin. These proteins are fundamental components of hair, skin, and nails, providing structure and strength. Supplementation may support the integrity and appearance of these tissues.
Silica is known to be a key mineral for maintaining healthy connective tissue, which includes hair, skin, and nails. Horsetail grass is a natural source of silica, which can help improve hair strength, elasticity, and nail integrity. It supports the structural components essential for healthy growth.
L-Cysteine is an amino acid that serves as a building block for keratin, the primary protein composing hair and nails. It helps to form the disulfide bonds that give keratin its strength and rigidity. Adequate L-Cysteine levels are important for maintaining strong and healthy hair and nail structures.
While studies on their direct synergy are ongoing, MSM provides sulfur, a building block for collagen and keratin, and horsetail grass supplies silica, important for connective tissue formation. Their combined presence offers a broader spectrum of nutrients essential for the structural health of hair, skin, and nails. Both contribute to the integrity of these tissues.
PABA is sometimes associated with hair pigmentation and overall hair health, though specific mechanisms are still being researched. It is believed to contribute to the body's utilization of other B vitamins. Some historical observations suggest a role in maintaining natural hair color and preventing premature graying.
schedule Dosage, timing & forms
Many individuals prefer to take supplements like these with a meal to enhance absorption and minimize potential stomach discomfort. While there isn't a strict 'optimal' time, consistency in daily intake is often more important. Taking it with food can help distribute nutrient intake and improve tolerance.
The time frame to notice benefits can vary significantly among individuals, depending on factors such as diet, lifestyle, and individual metabolism. Consistent daily intake for several weeks, often 4-12 weeks, is commonly suggested before evaluating efficacy for ingredients supporting hair, skin, and nail health. Patience and regular use are key.
It is generally recommended to take supplements containing MSM and L-Cysteine with a meal. This practice can help improve absorption of the nutrients and reduce the likelihood of experiencing gastrointestinal upset. Taking them with food often ensures better tolerance for many individuals.
For sustained benefits related to hair, skin, and nail health, consistent daily intake of these ingredients is typically recommended. Daily supplementation helps maintain steady levels of the nutrients in the body over time. Adhering to the suggested daily serving provides the intended support.
L-Cysteine and MSM are often combined in supplements due to their synergistic roles in supporting connective tissues. There is no strong evidence to suggest they negatively impact each other's absorption at typical supplement dosages. They generally complement each other without requiring separate timing or dosage adjustments.
health_and_safety Safety & interactions
Yes, horsetail extract has natural diuretic properties and may increase urine output. This could potentially enhance the effects of prescription diuretics or affect lithium levels, warranting caution. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if taking these medications.
Yes, PABA can interfere with the action of sulfonamide antibiotics, also known as sulfa drugs. These antibiotics specifically target bacteria by blocking their PABA utilization. It is generally advised to avoid PABA supplements while taking sulfonamide antibiotics.
MSM is generally well-tolerated. Some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea, diarrhea, or bloating, particularly when first starting. These effects are often temporary and may be reduced by taking the supplement with food.
Horsetail extract contains thiaminase, an enzyme that can degrade thiamine (Vitamin B1). While typical supplement doses might have a limited impact, prolonged or high-dose use could potentially lead to reduced thiamine levels. Individuals with existing thiamine deficiency or concerns should consult their doctor.
High doses of choline can occasionally lead to a "fishy" body odor, particularly if an individual has a genetic predisposition. However, the amount of choline in this specific product is relatively low, making this side effect less likely. If experienced, it usually indicates excessive intake.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
Choline | 50 mg |
Calcium | 35 mg |
MSM | 700 mg |
Horsetail Grass Stem Extract | 250 mg |
L-Cysteine | 100 mg |
Inositol | 25 mg |
PABA | 25 mg |
Categories
Horsetail 75.0
The product includes a substantial amount of Horsetail Grass Stem Extract (500mg total, with 250mg specified as Silica), which is a good dosage for its natural silica content, a key mineral important for hair, skin, and nail integrity.
Cysteine 60.0
L-Cysteine is included at 100mg, which is a useful amount for its role in keratin formation and antioxidant pathways, though higher doses are common in some comprehensive beauty or amino acid supplements to maximize impact.
PABA 45.0
The PABA content at 25mg is quite low compared to many standalone PABA supplements, which often provide 100mg to 1000mg per serving for potential hair pigmentation or other specific benefits.
Goals
Hair Health 80.0
The product contains key ingredients like Horsetail (for silica), MSM, and L-Cysteine, all of which are widely recognized and supported by consumer reviews and some research for their contributions to hair strength, growth, and overall health.
Nail Health 75.0
Similar to hair health, the silica from Horsetail, MSM, and L-Cysteine are beneficial for promoting strong nails and reducing brittleness, aligning well with the product's claims and general understanding of these nutrients for nail integrity.
Skin Health 70.0
MSM, L-Cysteine, and the silica from Horsetail are beneficial for skin elasticity, hydration, and overall appearance by supporting collagen and connective tissue synthesis, making this a reasonably supported goal within the formulation.
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