Melanin is a natural pigment that is produced in your body and is responsible for the color of your skin, hair, and eyes. There are three types of melanin produced in your body, eumelanin, pheomelanin, and neuromelanin. Eumelanin and pheomelanin are responsible for the color of your hair and skin. Neuromelanin is found in your brain and is still not fully understood by scientists.
Many people focus on their melanin production having to do with tanning, and skin protection from sun exposure. But melanin has many other important benefits for your overall health and wellness. It is a key hair pigment that works to protect your hair follicles from damage. Other studies have shown that melanin works as an antioxidant (meaning it fights free radical damage). Antioxidants are important for your overall wellness and for the health of your hair.
As a trichologist and hair health expert, I know that being proactive about your hair health is key to preventing future hair issues like texture or color changes, thinning, or brittleness. Being proactive about your overall health will show up in your hair health. So if you're already eating a balanced diet, quitting smoking, and using sunscreen, your body and hair will benefit from some extra melanin support.
Here are a few of my favorite ways to boost melanin production for your best hair health:
Vitamins B6 and B12 have been shown to increase melanin production. In a study that observed hair color changes after B12 supplementation, researchers noted that "Vitamin B12 is one of the essential vitamins which help in the production of red blood cells and also assist in the metabolism of iron in the body."¹
Other studies have confirmed the role of B12 in hair and skin health. Vitamin B12 supplementation is also used to improve energy, mood, memory, and concentration.²
When formulating effective hair supplements, it's essential to include ingredients that support melanin production. Our melanin-boosting supplement at heyhair gives the best possible support for melanin production with B12, Folic Acid (also known as B9), and Vitamin D.
Vitamin D is not only good for melanin production, it is also vital for the health of your hair follicles. A deficiency of vitamin D can lead to alopecia areata, a condition that causes hair loss.³
Copper is another crucial mineral for melanin production. It helps your body produce melanin and assists with iron absorption, which is important for your overall health and hair growth.⁴
Along with these vital melanin-producing vitamins, quality supplements can slow the rate of grey hair growth and even help repigment existing grey hair with a powerful combination of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Even though melanin acts as a natural sunblock for your skin and hair, it is not 100% effective. Over-exposure to the sun can lead to hair and scalp damage, and hair texture and color changes.
If you have naturally darker hair, it contains more melanin which makes it less susceptible to sun damage. But all hair types can benefit from UV protection.
According to a study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, "exposure to sunlight can cause hair damage leading to color fading, increased fragility and risk of breakage, and alterations in texture."⁵
At heyhair, we understand the importance of protecting your hair from environmental damage. Quality hair products should contain broad-spectrum UV filters and antioxidant-rich extracts like Sunflower Seed Extract to protect your hair from sun damage and fading.
A good leave-in treatment works to restore your hair to its pre-sun exposure condition. It delivers lightweight moisture, detangling, and heat protection up to 450F.
Your body needs certain nutrients to produce melanin, which is why supplementing with vitamins is so helpful. But you can also boost your melanin levels by eating these foods that support melanin production.
Here are some of the best foods for melanin production:
✅ Mushrooms: mushrooms are the only vegan source of vitamin D which is critical for melanin production. They also contain B6 and B12.
✅ Beans: especially black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans. Beans are high in copper which your body needs to produce melanin.
✅ Tofu: soy products like tofu have been shown to increase melanin production.
✅ Nuts: walnuts, peanuts, and other nuts contain high levels of B12, folate, and copper.
✅ Dark chocolate: cacao beans are rich in copper and also contain a compound that mimics estrogen. Estrogen is important for hair growth and thickness.
These foods are also beneficial for the health of your hair. They can add shine, volume, and growth to your tresses. For added convenience, you can also take our melanin-boosting supplement that contains these vitamins and minerals for healthy hair growth.
Your hair gets its unique color from its chemical structure. The closer the structure is to a straight line, the darker your hair will be. Melanin is produced in your hair follicles and is made up of molecules that bind to your hair's keratin (protein) structure. Melanin acts to protect your hair follicles from damage by free radicals (unstable atoms that can damage cells) by neutralizing them.⁶
As we age, our bodies produce less melanin which means less protection against free radical damage. Free radicals attack the protein structure in your hair causing changes in texture, color loss, and thinning.⁷
To support your natural melanin production, using products with a melanin-stimulating peptide along with powerful antioxidant-rich blends of anti-inflammatory ingredients helps protect your scalp and hair follicles from free radical damage.
Boosting your melanin levels is an important part of preventing and slowing grey hair growth. It can also support the vitality and health of your hair. A proactive approach to your melanin production, with the right combination of vitamins, antioxidants, and UV protection will deliver healthier, thicker, fuller hair.
Our scientifically formulated products can help you maintain your natural hair color and health:
About the Author:
Dave Banks is a Trichologist and hair expert with over 22 years of experience. He specializes in hair health, anti-gray solutions, and science-backed hair care approaches. Drawing from his extensive clinical background, Dave offers practical advice that bridges the gap between specialized trichology knowledge and everyday hair care routines.