Hair loss affects millions of people, and women are no exception. Thinning hair can be especially tough for women, often lowering self-esteem and confidence. While causes range from hormones to stress, many women are now looking to natural supplements for help. Saw palmetto is one option that’s getting a lot of attention.
Saw palmetto is best known for supporting prostate health in men, but it’s now being studied for its possible benefits in women’s hair loss. The main idea is that saw palmetto may lower levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair thinning. But does it really help women? In this article, we’ll look at the benefits of saw palmetto, review top products for hair loss, and share expert recommendations to help you choose the right supplement.
What Is Saw Palmetto and How Does It Affect Hair Loss?
It is a small palm plant native to North America. It has long been used in traditional medicine for various health conditions, particularly those affecting the prostate. Saw palmetto’s active components, primarily fatty acids and phytosterols, are believed to work by blocking the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which is responsible for converting testosterone into DHT.
DHT is connected to hair thinning and loss, especially in female pattern baldness. By lowering DHT, saw palmetto may help women grow healthier hair and reduce thinning.
Why Women Are Turning to Saw Palmetto for Hair Loss
Traditional treatments like minoxidil or hormone therapy don’t always work for women with thinning hair. Many women want natural options that can help balance hormones without the side effects of medications.
Saw palmetto is becoming a popular choice. Some studies show it can block DHT, making it a helpful part of a hair loss routine for women.
Key Benefits for Women:
- Hormonal Balance: Lowering DHT with saw palmetto may help balance hormones and support hair growth.
- Natural and Non-invasive: For those seeking a natural remedy, saw palmetto supplements provide an easy, non-invasive option.
- Safe for Long-Term Use: Saw palmetto is generally well-tolerated and safe for long-term use, making it a more sustainable option compared to some other treatments.
What to Look for in the Best Saw Palmetto Supplement for Women’s Hair Loss
When picking a saw palmetto supplement for hair loss, keep these key points in mind:
- Standardized Extract: Look for supplements with a standardized extract and a high amount of active ingredients, ideally 85-95% fatty acids.
- Additional Ingredients: Some saw palmetto supplements are combined with other hair-healthy ingredients, such as biotin, zinc, or vitamin D, to enhance hair growth.
- Formulation: Saw palmetto supplements are available in various forms, including capsules, soft gels, and liquid extracts. Choose the form that’s most convenient for your lifestyle.
- Brand Transparency: Choose brands that clearly share how they source and make their products, and that use third-party testing for quality.
- Dosage: Most saw palmetto supplements for hair loss use 160–320 mg per day. Always follow the recommended amount for best results.
7 Best Saw Palmetto Supplements for Women’s Hair Loss
Here are the top 7 saw palmetto supplements for women experiencing hair loss, updated for 2026. These products have been selected based on their formulation, effectiveness, and user feedback.
| Product | Key Ingredients | Made In | Highlights | Form | Dose |
| 1. Nature’s Way Saw Palmetto | Saw Palmetto Extract (320mg) | USA | Trusted brand, standardized extract | Capsule | 320 mg/day |
| 2. Nutricost Saw Palmetto Extract | Saw Palmetto Extract (160mg) | USA | Budget-friendly, high-quality extract | Softgel | 160 mg/day |
| 3. Swanson Saw Palmetto | Saw Palmetto Extract (320mg) | USA | Vegetarian capsules, supports hormone balance | Capsule | 320 mg/day |
| 4. KalmPro Saw Palmetto & Pygeum | Saw Palmetto (320mg), Pygeum | USA | Combines saw palmetto with pygeum for hair health | Capsule | 320 mg/day |
| 5. Herbal Secrets Saw Palmetto | Saw Palmetto Extract (320mg) | USA | Supports hair and prostate health | Capsule | 320 mg/day |
| 6. NOW Foods Saw Palmetto Extract | Saw Palmetto Extract (160mg) | USA | Non-GMO, GMP certified, value for money | Softgel | 160 mg/day |
| 7. Pure Encapsulations Saw Palmetto | Saw Palmetto Extract (320mg) | USA | Hypoallergenic, vegan, high-quality | Capsule | 320 mg/day |
Detailed Product Reviews (7 Best Saw Palmetto Supplements)
- Nature’s Way Saw Palmetto
Why We Recommend: Nature’s Way is a well-known brand in natural supplements. Each capsule has 320 mg of saw palmetto extract, giving a strong dose to support hair health.
Tester Feedback: “I’ve been using Nature’s Way for a few months, and I’ve noticed my hair is thicker, with less shedding. It’s been a game-changer for me.”
Warnings: Take with food to avoid stomach discomfort.
- Nutricost Saw Palmetto Extract
Why We Recommend: Nutricost provides an affordable yet effective saw palmetto supplement. At 160 mg per softgel, it’s a good starting point for those new to saw palmetto.
Tester Feedback: “Great quality for the price. I’ve noticed improved hair thickness and healthier growth.”
Warnings: Can be taken with or without food.
- Swanson Saw Palmetto
Why We Recommend: Swanson’s saw palmetto supplement has 320 mg per capsule and is vegetarian. It’s a good pick for women looking to balance hormones and support hair growth.
Tester Feedback: “I’ve seen significant improvements in my hair texture and volume. Swanson is a trusted brand, and this product worked well for me.”
Warnings: Store in a cool, dry place.
- KalmPro Saw Palmetto & Pygeum
Why We Recommend: KalmPro mixes saw palmetto with pygeum, another natural extract. This combo may help balance hormones that affect hair growth.
Tester Feedback: “This combination has worked wonders for me. I’m seeing less hair shedding and healthier growth. Pygeum really complements saw palmetto.”
Warnings: Best used with a balanced diet for optimal results.
- Herbal Secrets Saw Palmetto
Why We Recommend: Herbal Secrets provides 320 mg of saw palmetto extract per capsule. It’s a high-quality, affordable option for women with thinning hair.
Tester Feedback: “I’ve been using this for a couple of months now, and I’m thrilled with the results. My hair feels fuller, and there’s less breakage.”
Warnings: May cause mild digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.
- NOW Foods Saw Palmetto Extract
Why We Recommend: NOW Foods has a reliable saw palmetto extract at a fair price. It’s non-GMO and quality certified.
Tester Feedback: “I’ve been using NOW Foods for a few weeks now, and my hair looks more vibrant. It’s a great product for the price.”
Warnings: Consult with a doctor before use if pregnant or nursing.
- Pure Encapsulations Saw Palmetto
Why We Recommend: This premium saw palmetto extract is hypoallergenic, vegan, and made with top-quality ingredients. It’s great for women with sensitive systems who want a strong but gentle supplement.
Tester Feedback: “Pure Encapsulations has worked wonders for my thinning hair. I appreciate the clean formulation and the noticeable results.”
Warnings: May interact with certain medications. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Saw Palmetto Supplement for Hair Loss
When choosing a saw palmetto supplement, think about these factors:
- Hair Loss Severity: If you have mild hair thinning, a lower dose (160 mg) may be sufficient. For more severe thinning, opt for higher doses (320 mg).
- Supplement Form: Saw palmetto comes as capsules, soft gels, or liquid extracts. Pick the form you’ll find easiest to take regularly.
- Additional Ingredients: Look for supplements that also include hair-boosting ingredients like biotin, zinc, or vitamin D.
- Budget: While high-quality supplements may be more expensive, they often contain higher doses of active ingredients and fewer fillers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Does saw palmetto help with hair loss in women?
Yes, studies suggest that saw palmetto may help reduce hair loss in women by inhibiting DHT, a hormone linked to hair thinning.
Q2: How long does it take to see results from saw palmetto?
Results typically take 2–3 months to become noticeable, as hair growth is a slow process.
Q3: Are there any side effects of saw palmetto?
Saw palmetto is generally well-tolerated but may cause mild digestive issues in some users.
Q4: Can saw palmetto be taken alongside other hair loss treatments?
Yes, it can be taken with other treatments, such as minoxidil, but consult your healthcare provider to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Q5: How much saw palmetto should I take for hair loss?
A typical dosage ranges from 160 mg to 320 mg per day, depending on the severity of the hair loss.
Conclusion: Take Charge of Your Hair Health with Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is a natural and effective choice for women dealing with hair loss. By lowering DHT and helping balance hormones, it can support fuller, healthier hair. Pick the product that fits your needs, and give it time as you work to improve your hair health.