Can too much vitamin d cause female hair loss
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Can Too Much Vitamin D Cause Female Hair Loss?
Introduction to Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL) and Vitamin D
Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL) is a common cause of diffuse hair loss in women, characterized by thinning hair primarily in the frontal, central, and parietal areas of the scalp. The pathophysiology of FPHL is multifactorial and not entirely understood, with both androgen-dependent and androgen-independent mechanisms being implicated 123. Recently, the role of vitamin D in hair health has garnered attention, with several studies investigating its potential impact on FPHL.
Vitamin D Deficiency and FPHL
Multiple studies have consistently shown a significant association between low serum levels of vitamin D and the incidence of FPHL. Women with FPHL tend to have lower levels of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D compared to healthy controls 12345. For instance, one study found that the mean serum vitamin D level in FPHL patients was significantly lower (15.4 ± 8.25 ng/ml) compared to controls (46.42 ± 19.92 ng/ml) 1. Another study reported similar findings, with FPHL patients having a mean vitamin D level of 13.45 ± 8.40 ng/ml, significantly lower than the control group's 17.16 ± 8.96 ng/ml 2.
Severity of Hair Loss and Vitamin D Levels
The severity of hair loss in FPHL patients also appears to correlate with vitamin D levels. Studies have shown that patients with more severe hair loss (classified using Ludwig's scale) tend to have lower serum vitamin D levels 134. For example, one study noted significant differences in vitamin D levels between patients with different degrees of hair loss severity, with the lowest levels observed in those with the most severe hair loss 4.
Potential Role of Vitamin D in Hair Follicle Health
Vitamin D is known to play a crucial role in maintaining skin and hair follicle health. It regulates the hair growth cycle and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various hair disorders, including alopecia areata and telogen effluvium 6. The vitamin D receptor is essential for hair follicle cycling, and its deficiency can lead to hair loss 6.
Can Excess Vitamin D Cause Hair Loss?
While the majority of research focuses on vitamin D deficiency and its association with hair loss, there is limited evidence on the effects of excessive vitamin D levels. The studies reviewed primarily highlight the negative impact of low vitamin D levels on hair health, with no substantial data indicating that high levels of vitamin D cause hair loss. In fact, vitamin D supplementation is often recommended for patients with FPHL to address deficiencies 610.
Conclusion
Current research strongly supports the association between low serum vitamin D levels and female pattern hair loss. Deficiency in vitamin D is consistently linked to increased severity of hair loss in women with FPHL. However, there is insufficient evidence to suggest that excessive vitamin D intake causes hair loss. Further studies are needed to explore the potential effects of high vitamin D levels on hair health, but for now, maintaining adequate vitamin D levels appears beneficial for preventing and managing FPHL.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Possible Association of Female-Pattern Hair Loss with Alteration in Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Levels
Female-pattern hair loss may be associated with lower serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, particularly in premenopausal women with vitamin D deficiency.
Serum Vitamin D3 Level in Patients with Female Pattern Hair Loss
Decreased serum levels of Vitamin D3 are associated with the incidence of female pattern hair loss.
Observational StudyPossible association of female-pattern hair loss with alteration in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels
Lower serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels are associated with female-pattern hair loss, suggesting a possible role for vitamin D in the pathogenesis of this common hair loss.
Observational StudyVitmain D level in female pattern hair loss with normal androgen level
Low serum vitamin D levels may play a role in the pathogenesis of female pattern hair loss.
Incidence of Vitamin D Deficiency in Patients with Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL)
High vitamin D3 deficiency (73.0%) is found among female pattern of hair loss patients, with significant associations to education, vitamin D intake, and socio economic status.
Observational StudyThe Role of Vitamin D in Non-Scarring Alopecia
Vitamin D supplementation may be a therapeutic option for patients with non-scarring alopecia, such as alopecia areata, female pattern hair loss, or telogen effluvium.
Literature ReviewEvaluation of Serum Level of Vitamin D in Patients with Female Pattern Hair Loss Thesis
Decreased serum levels of Vitamin D3 are associated with female pattern hair loss, suggesting a need for further evaluation in these patients.
Observational StudyRole of Vitamin D in Female Pattern Hair Loss Among Iraqi Women: A Case- Control Study
Low vitamin D levels in Iraqi women may contribute to the development of female pattern hair loss, suggesting a potential role in its etiopathogenesis.
Observational StudyThe effect of ferritin, Vitamin D, and some hormonal and biochemical parameters on patients with female-pattern hair loss after COVID-19 infection
Low levels of Vitamin D3, ferritin, and testosterone are closely related to female-pattern hair loss complications after COVID-19 infection.
Serum Ferritin and Vitamin D in Female Hair Loss: Do They Play a Role?
Low serum ferritin and vitamin D2 levels are associated with hair loss in females with chronic telogen effluvium and female pattern hair loss, suggesting screening and supplementation may be beneficial in treating these diseases.
Observational Study
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