Saw Palmetto for Hair: What Are the Benefits?

Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), also known as dwarf palm, is a small palm tree native to the southeastern United States, particularly Florida. It belongs to the Arecaceae family. Its fruits, small dark berries, are used in herbal medicine for their medicinal properties, particularly to support hormonal health. Traditionally, Native American populations used saw palmetto to relieve urinary disorders and improve male vitality. Today, its extracts are primarily recognised for their active compounds capable of inhibiting 5-alpha-reductase, a key enzyme in the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Excess levels of this hormone are directly linked to the miniaturisation of hair follicles and androgenetic alopecia. This mechanism of action makes it a potential ally against hormonally-induced hair loss, in both men and women. The fruit of the dwarf palm is rich in fatty acids, plant sterols, and bioactive compounds that work synergistically to modulate hormonal activity without disrupting the body.

Saw Palmetto: Which Active Compounds Does It Contain?

Saw palmetto berries contain a synergy of active compounds responsible for its beneficial effects on hair health. It primarily contains:

• Free fatty acids (lauric, myristic, oleic and linoleic acids): These fatty acids play an essential role in inhibiting 5-alpha-reductase while nourishing the scalp, thereby helping strengthen the skin’s lipid barrier.

• Phytosterols (particularly beta-sitosterol): This plant sterol helps naturally modulate hormonal activity, especially DHT activity, while supporting hair follicle metabolism.

• Flavonoids: Powerful antioxidants, they protect scalp cells from free radicals and help prevent premature tissue ageing.

• Polysaccharides: Present in smaller quantities, they help maintain proper scalp hydration and promote a comfortable skin sensation.

• Long-chain alcohols (including octacosanol): Known for their mild vasodilatory properties, they stimulate local microcirculation, thereby improving oxygenation of the hair follicles.

• Volatile oils and tannins: These compounds give the fruit a slightly astringent effect, which helps balance sebum production, particularly on scalps prone to oiliness.

The use of saw palmetto to support hair health is primarily based on its modulatory effect on androgen hormones, particularly DHT. It is particularly recommended in the following situations:

Androgenetic alopecia: Androgenetic alopecia: This most common form of hair loss is linked to hypersensitivity of hair follicles to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). It affects both men and women, particularly starting in their 40s. By partially inhibiting the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into DHT, saw palmetto may help slow the progressive miniaturisation of hair follicles.

Thinning hair in women: During menopause, postpartum, or in cases of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hormonal fluctuations can disrupt the hair growth cycle and lead to hair thinning or diffuse hair loss. Saw palmetto helps mitigate these effects by rebalancing the hormonal environment of the scalp.

Prevention of chronic hair loss: Even in the absence of an identified medical condition, some people experience persistent diffuse hair loss or declining hair density. Saw palmetto can then be used preventively, as part of a comprehensive hair care routine.

Multifactorial hair loss: When hair loss results from a combination of factors, such as stress, excess sebum, hormonal imbalances, or premature ageing of the scalp, this plant can help stabilise the situation without irritating the skin or causing irritation.

It is important to note that saw palmetto does not directly stimulate new hair growth, but acts on the hormonal system by promoting the prolongation of the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle. This allows existing hair to remain on the scalp longer, while reducing the gradual loss of density.

Thanks to its regulatory effects on androgen hormones, Saw Palmetto offers several concrete benefits for hair health: 

• Slows hormonal hair loss: By inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, saw palmetto reduces the conversion of testosterone into DHT, a hormone involved in the progressive atrophy of hair follicles.

• Promotes hair density: By limiting DHT, it supports follicles in producing thicker, stronger hair over time.

• Supports the hair growth cycle: The plant helps maintain hair in the growth phase (anagen) for longer, reducing premature transitions into the resting phase (telogen).

• Helps reduce scalp inflammation: Thanks to its soothing compounds, it helps limit the micro-inflammation often observed around hair follicles in cases of alopecia.

• Helps balance sebum production: Saw palmetto acts on the sebaceous glands, helping reduce excess sebum that can clog pores and weigh down the roots.

• Suitable for sensitive scalps: Well tolerated when used topically, it respects the skin barrier and can be used regularly without causing irritation.

• Supports overall hormonal balance: Unlike certain medical treatments (such as Finasteride), it helps modulate DHT activity without significantly lowering circulating testosterone levels.

• A well-tolerated natural alternative: Saw palmetto extracts are generally considered free from major side effects, with no reported impact on libido or sexual function, making them an appealing long-term option.

For denser, fuller and shinier hair, discover our Hair Complexe food supplement. Formulated with Beaulixir® active ingredient, clinically proven to help reduce hair loss and improve the appearance of hair, it combines oil extracts of saw palmetto, borage, flax, wheat and rye with pine bark phytosterols. These ingredients work in synergy with zinc and natural biotin (vitamin B8) to help strengthen the hair fibre. Take 2 capsules per day with a glass of water.

For adults only. Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or for women with a personal or family history of breast cancer. Should be used as part of a balanced diet including regular consumption of fruit and vegetables to help maintain carotenoid levels. Seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Take separately from medications (with at least a 60-minute interval). Do not consume if you are taking anticoagulant treatment at the same time. Avoid consuming more than 3g per day of added plant sterols/plant stanols. Patients undergoing cholesterol-lowering treatment should only consume this product under medical supervision.

Saw palmetto is particularly suitable for:

• Thinning hair or loss of density: Helps support hair density and maintain overall hair volume.

• Androgenetic alopecia: Suitable for men and women experiencing hormonally related hair loss.

• Fine hair due to follicular miniaturisation: Suitable for early to moderate stages of hair thinning.

• Oily Hair: Helps balance excessive sebum production.

• Sensitive scalps: Its plant-based extracts are well tolerated by reactive scalps.

• Progressive hair loss after the age of 30: Particularly suitable in cases of reduced density around the crown or temples, in both men and women.

• Preventing hair ageing: Can be used to help slow down the effects of age-related or hormonal changes on hair.

Good to Know

However, it is less effective for acute hair loss caused by emotional shock, severe nutritional deficiencies or autoimmune conditions, where the underlying cause is different.

1. Invigorating oil treatment with Rosemary oil macerate : Rosemary oil macerate is known for its toning and stimulating properties on the scalp. It promotes microcirculation and purifies the scalp, thereby preparing the ground for healthy hair growth. Apply the oil to the scalp section by section, then massage in with gentle circular motions. Leave on for 10 to 30 minutes before shampooing.

2. Alternately, use an oil treatment enriched with the Hair Growth Active : derived from the microalgae Nannochloropsis oceanica, this phytosterol-rich active ingredient stimulates hair growth at the root. It promotes denser and faster growth while adding shine and suppleness to the hair. It blends easily into an oil such as Organic Hair Care Oil. Dosage: 0.5–5% of the total weight of the formulation.

3. Gentle shampoo with Organic Shikakai Powder : Shikakai, an Ayurvedic plant rich in natural saponins, gently cleanses without irritating the scalp. It restores shine and vitality to the hair while promoting natural growth. In Indian tradition, it is used to make hair soft and silky, prevent dandruff, and promote hair growth. Mix one tablespoon of Shikakai powder with a little warm water to form a smooth paste. Apply to wet scalp, massage, then rinse thoroughly.

4. Targeted treatment with the anti-hair loss serum with Peptides & pea extract : This concentrated serum combines peptides and pea extracts to strengthen hair roots and prolong the hair growth phase. It improves the structure and anchoring of hair follicles, thereby preventing hair loss. Apply one to two pipettes to the entire dry scalp once a day, in the morning or evening. No need to rinse.

To learn more, check out our full article: What are some natural and effective remedies for hair loss?

Saw palmetto is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or if you are taking hormonal or anticoagulant treatments, due to potential interactions. It is also advisable to stop using it before surgery and seek medical advice if you have a hormone-dependent condition or are undergoing long-term treatment.

Be patient and consistent: a 3- to 6-month course is generally needed to see visible results, whether in terms of hair density or reduced shedding. As the hair growth cycle extends over several months, it is important to give saw palmetto enough time to work and support long-lasting regrowth.

Stéphanie Catrysse is a naturopath (certified by the FENA), a wellness massage and lymphatic drainage practitioner, and a personal development coach. She is passionate about alternative medicine and practices a holistic approach to health.