Hair problems like excessive hair fall, slow rate of hair growth, and early onset of gray hair require special attention in terms of nutrition so that your hair remains healthy to fight these problems. Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) is one of the hair-friendly nutrients that you must include in your daily diet. It is found in foods like grains, eggs, milk, and meat. Go through the article to understand more about para aminobenzoic acid uses and its benefits for hair health.
What is Para Aminobenzoic Acid?
Vitamin B10 or more commonly referred to as “para-aminobenzoic acid” (PABA), is a white, crystalline organic material. It is categorized as a member of the vitamin B complex, even though it’s not a vitamin per se. This compound aids in the production of folate (vitamin B9). However, the amount of folate produced in this manner is insufficient to meet your body’s requirements, necessitating obtaining it from other dietary sources. Para-aminobenzoic acid has been found to provide many benefits for your hair health.
Para Aminobenzoic Acid Benefits for Hair
There are several ways in which para-aminobenzoic acid benefits the health of your hair; some of them are:
It can absorb ultraviolet (UV) rays, particularly UVB rays responsible for sunburns, hair damage and DNA damage. Its UV absorption properties provide protective benefits for hair against sun damage.
Another important benefit is its ability to aid in the repigmentation of prematurely gray hair. Research suggests that daily doses ranging from 200mg to 24g of para-aminobenzoic acid have contributed to hair darkening and restoring original hair color in individuals with gray hair.
Additionally, para-aminobenzoic acid plays a role in facilitating the production of folate (vitamin B9), which is vital for the growth and repair of skin and hair cells. While para-aminobenzoic acid alone may not directly promote hair growth, its combination with other key ingredients like folic acid or MSM (MethylSulfonylMethane) can help prevent excessive hair loss and promote the development of healthy hair in both men and women.
Sources of Para Aminobenzoic Acid
Para-aminobenzoic acid is naturally present in various foods like yeast, mushrooms, whole grains, eggs, organ meat and spinach. Moreover, your body can produce para aminobenzoic acid through specific gut bacteria. Aside from dietary sources, it is widely accessible in supplement form, available as pills, extracts, powders and topical applications. While most para aminobenzoic acid supplements suggest a daily dosage of 500 mg, they can range from 100 mg to more than 1,000 mg. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional before commencing a para aminobenzoic acid supplement regimen.
Conclusion
Para aminobenzoic acid, sometimes referred to as vitamin B10, is a naturally occurring organic compound present in certain foods and supplements. It is renowned for its potential hair health benefits, which include delaying premature graying and reducing hair loss. Although topical applications and most oral supplements are generally considered safe, the full scope of its effects remains unclear. High doses may lead to adverse side effects. Therefore, seeking guidance from a healthcare professional before incorporating a para aminobenzoic acid supplement into your routine is imperative.