Vitamin Deficiency

Vitamin Deficiencies and Hair Loss

While DHT blockers and hair growth stimulants play a significant role in combating hair loss, addressing nutritional deficiencies is equally important. A lack of essential vitamins and minerals can weaken hair follicles, slow regrowth, and exacerbate hair thinning.

Key Nutritional Deficiencies Linked to Hair Loss

  1. Vitamin D
    Vitamin D supports the creation of new hair follicles. Low levels of this vitamin have been linked to alopecia areata and general hair thinning.¹

  2. Iron
    Iron helps transport oxygen to hair follicles. A deficiency can lead to hair shedding, especially in women, and is often associated with diffuse thinning.²

  3. Zinc
    Zinc plays a role in tissue repair and maintaining hair follicle health. A deficiency can weaken follicles, increasing hair brittleness and breakage.³

  4. Biotin (Vitamin B7)
    Biotin is vital for keratin production, a protein that makes up the hair's structure. A deficiency, though rare, can cause brittle hair and hair loss.⁴

  5. Vitamin E
    Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that helps combat oxidative stress, which can weaken hair follicles. Deficiency can impair hair growth and scalp health.⁵

  6. Vitamin B12
    Vitamin B12 is essential for red blood cell production, ensuring oxygen delivery to the scalp. A deficiency can cause thinning hair and poor follicle health.⁶

  7. Protein
    While not a vitamin, protein is critical for healthy hair, as it forms the foundation of keratin. A lack of dietary protein can lead to widespread hair shedding.⁷

Footnotes for Vitamin Deficiencies

  1. Vitamin D and hair loss: British Journal of Dermatology, 2019.

  2. Iron deficiency and hair health: American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 2018.

  3. Zinc deficiency effects: Journal of Dermatological Science, 2020.

  4. Biotin for hair growth: Dermato-Endocrinology, 2016.

  5. Vitamin E antioxidant role: Dermatology Times, 2017.

  6. Vitamin B12 deficiency: Nutrition Research Reviews, 2021.

  7. Protein and hair structure: Hair Science and Technology, 2022.