What exactly is NAC?

N-acetylcysteine, often abbreviated to NAC, is a special form of the amino acid cysteine. Amino acids can be seen as the small building blocks that make up proteins. Cysteine is one of those building blocks and stands out because it contains a lot of sulphur. Sulphur is important for the production of keratin, the protein that makes up most of our hair.

A small modification, the addition of a so-called acetyl group, improves the absorption of cysteine by your body. This improved form is called NAC. This substance has been used in the medical world for many years, for example to protect the liver or to clear the airways in cases of respiratory problems. Nowadays, NAC is also increasingly used as a dietary supplement because it can support your body in various ways and can therefore also play a role in the health of your hair.

The broad benefits of NAC

NAC is known for its role as a powerful antioxidant. It helps your body produce glutathione, one of the most powerful natural protectors against harmful substances and oxidative stress. This means that NAC helps protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, small particles that are released during stress, air pollution or an unhealthy lifestyle, for example.

In addition, NAC is often used to:

• support the immune system;
• help protect liver function;
• support the lungs in cases of complaints such as trapped mucus;
• help the body recover better after periods of stress (e.g. intensive exercise) or illness.
  

Why NAC is good for your hair

Healthy hair only grows well when the hair follicles and scalp are in balance. NAC can contribute to this in several ways:

Building block for strong hair

As mentioned, cysteine is an important building block for keratin. Without sufficient cysteine, your body is less able to produce strong hair fibres. NAC provides your body with this substance, strengthening the basis for hair growth.

Protection of the hair follicles

Free radicals and inflammation can damage the hair roots, which can accelerate hair loss. Because NAC stimulates the production of glutathione, it helps to reduce this damage. This creates a healthier environment in which new hair can grow better.

Cooperation with other nutrients

For optimal hair growth, NAC works best in combination with other nutrients, such as biotin, zinc and B vitamins. It thus forms part of a broader nutritional pattern that nourishes your hair from within.

Research into NAC for hereditary baldness

An important clinical study entitled ‘Efficacy and Tolerability of N-acetylcysteine for Treatment of The Early-onset Androgenetic Alopecia in Men’ examined the role of NAC in men with early-onset androgenetic alopecia (AGA). In this study, NAC was investigated both as a standalone treatment and in combination with minoxidil 5%, the most commonly used treatment for hair loss.

The researchers assumed that oxidative stress is a significant factor in AGA. Laboratory tests had already shown that NAC can suppress harmful substances such as prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) and TGF-β, which inhibit hair growth. The question was whether this would also have measurable effects in humans.

The results of the study showed that NAC was well tolerated, with only mild side effects such as slight stomach or intestinal complaints. More importantly, improvements were seen in hair density and a reduction in miniaturisation of the hair follicles, especially when NAC was combined with minoxidil 5%. In the group that received NAC alone, the effects were more modest, but still positive compared to the baseline situation.

These results clearly show that NAC may play a valuable role in the treatment of hereditary hair loss. It can enhance the effect of minoxidil and also appears to be safe enough to be used on its own. This research therefore represents an important step in scientifically substantiating NAC as a hair-supporting supplement.

Linn Minoxidil 5% spray (100 ml)

A forma de Minoxidil que recomendamos para a maioria dos homens. A concentração de 5% demonstrou ser mais eficaz do que 2% na estimulação do crescimento do cabelo. O Minoxidil pode proporcionar um crescimento visível do cabelo após 4 meses com uma utilização eficaz.

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Vegan NAC: a conscious choice

Many supplements contain animal-based additives, but for those who prefer not to consume these, there is also a vegan version of NAC supplements available. This means you can choose a product without animal ingredients, in line with a plant-based or conscious lifestyle.

NAC as extra support for your hair

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a versatile supplement that not only supports your health, but can also have a positive effect on your hair. It provides building blocks for strong hair, protects your hair follicles and provides a healthy foundation for new hair to grow better.

Research shows that NAC is particularly promising in combination with minoxidil 5%. Together, they give better results than separately: fuller hair, less thinning hair and a stronger hair structure. This makes NAC a valuable addition if you want to actively work on your hair growth.

The great thing is that NAC is well tolerated and also available as a vegan supplement. This allows you to choose a safe and conscious way to support your hair from within.

Sources

ClinicalTrials.gov. (n.d.). Efficacy and tolerability of N-acetyl-cysteine for treatment of the early-onset androgenetic alopecia in men. Retrieved on 25 September 2025, from https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04209803

Natural Dieticians. (n.d.). Hair nutrients. Retrieved on 25 September 2025, from https://www.natuurdietisten.nl/files/Haar%20voedende%20stoffen.pdf

Plantina. (n.d.). PS N-acetylcysteine (NAC). Retrieved on 25 September 2025, from https://www.deonlinedrogist.nl/meer_info/Plantina-PS-N-acetylcystei%CC%88ne%20(NAC).pdf