Published on: 5/15/2025
Can a deficiency in certain vitamins cause hair loss?
Yes, a lack of certain vitamins can lead to hair loss. Vitamins like D and minerals like iron are important for keeping hair healthy.
Explanation
Hair loss can sometimes be caused by not having enough of certain vitamins and minerals in the body.
- Vitamin D and Iron: According to research, low levels of vitamin D and iron (measured as serum ferritin) can be linked to hair loss, especially in women.
- Other Vitamins: Other vitamins and minerals like zinc, biotin, and vitamin A may also play a role in keeping hair healthy, but more studies are needed to know for sure.
If you think you might be losing hair because of a vitamin deficiency, it could be helpful to talk to a healthcare provider. They can help find out if a vitamin deficiency is the cause and suggest ways to improve your diet or take supplements if needed.
(References)
- Almohanna HM, Ahmed AA, Tsatalis JP, & Tosti A. (2019). The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review. Dermatology and therapy, 30547302.
- Rushton DH. (2002). Nutritional factors and hair loss. Clinical and experimental dermatology, 12190640.
- Rasheed H, Mahgoub D, Hegazy R, El-Komy M, Abdel Hay R, Hamid MA, & Hamdy E. (2013). Serum ferritin and vitamin d in female hair loss. Skin pharmacology and physiology, 23428658.
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