What vitamin deficiency causes hair loss
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Vitamin Deficiency and Hair Loss: Key Insights
Vitamin D Deficiency and Hair Loss
The Role of Vitamin D in Hair Growth
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in the hair growth cycle. It is involved in the creation of new hair follicles, which are essential for maintaining hair density and preventing hair thinning. Several studies have highlighted the potential link between vitamin D deficiency and hair loss. For instance, a case report suggests that vitamin D deficiency may contribute to hair thinning, although comprehensive research on its direct link to androgenetic alopecia is still incomplete1.
Prevalence and Awareness
Research conducted in Saudi Arabia indicates a high level of awareness about the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and hair loss. In a study involving 985 participants, 95.2% had heard about the deficiency and its potential impact on hair health. However, only about a third of the participants reported adequate sun exposure or vitamin D supplement use, underscoring the need for better health education2. Another study focusing on adult females in Saudi Arabia found that 62.1% of participants correctly identified the link between vitamin D deficiency and hair loss, but only 26.7% practiced regular sun exposure3 4.
Clinical Evidence
Clinical investigations have further supported the association between vitamin D deficiency and hair loss. A study involving young women with alopecia found that 93.75% of the participants had low vitamin D levels, highlighting the importance of early detection and supplementation as part of routine treatment8. Additionally, research on pediatric alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition, has shown that vitamin D deficiency is related to disease severity, suggesting a broader impact of this vitamin on hair health9.
Other Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies
Zinc and Ferritin
Zinc and ferritin deficiencies are also commonly linked to hair loss. Zinc is essential for hair follicle health, and its deficiency can lead to hair thinning and loss. Studies have shown that a significant percentage of individuals with hair loss have low zinc levels2 8. Ferritin, a protein that stores iron, is crucial for hair growth, and low ferritin levels have been associated with hair loss in various studies2 8.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is another important nutrient for hair health. Deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to diffuse hair loss, particularly in pregnant women. Research has shown that pregnant women with severe hair loss often have significantly lower levels of vitamin B12, among other nutrients10.
Comprehensive Nutrient Role
A broad review of the role of vitamins and minerals in hair loss has identified several key nutrients, including vitamins A, B, C, D, E, iron, selenium, and zinc, as important for normal hair follicle development and immune function. Deficiencies in these micronutrients can be modifiable risk factors for alopecia5 6 7.
Conclusion
Vitamin D deficiency is strongly linked to hair loss, with significant evidence supporting its role in hair follicle health and growth. Other deficiencies, such as zinc, ferritin, and vitamin B12, also contribute to hair thinning and loss. Increasing awareness and improving practices related to sun exposure and supplementation can help mitigate these deficiencies and promote better hair health. Further research is needed to explore the full extent of these relationships and develop effective treatment strategies.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Vitamin D Deficiency and Hair Loss: A Case Report and Review of the Literature for Diagnosis and Treatment
Vitamin D deficiency may be linked to hair thinning, and supplementation may be a potential medical treatment for hair loss in patients with vitamin D deficiency.
Case ReportKnowledge, Attitude, and Practices Related to Vitamin D, Zinc, and Ferritin Deficiencies and the Associated Risk of Hair Loss in Jazan, Saudi Arabia
Health education on vitamin D, zinc, and ferritin deficiencies is needed to improve sun exposure and supplement use practices, potentially reducing hair loss associated with these deficiencies.
Observational StudyVitamin D Deficiency and Risk of Hair Loss: Knowledge and Practice of Adult Female Population in Saudi Arabia, 2020
Vitamin D deficiency is linked to hair loss in Saudi Arabian adult females, but knowledge of the relationship is average and supplementation is needed for prevention.
Vitamin D Deficiency and Risk of Hair Loss: Knowledge and Practice of Adult Female Population in Saudi Arabia, 2020
Vitamin D deficiency is linked to hair loss in Saudi Arabian adult females, but knowledge and supplementation levels are low.
The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review
Micronutrients play a crucial role in normal hair follicle development and immune cell function, and deficiency may be a modifiable risk factor for alopecia.
Systematic Review
Highly CitedNutrition and hair.
Nutritional deficiency can cause hair changes, such as color, weakened, or lost, and can be detected through a thorough physical exam and a thorough history.
Highly CitedNutrition and hair: deficiencies and supplements.
Nutritional deficiencies can cause structural abnormalities, pigmentation changes, or hair loss, and can be managed through dietary changes and supplements.
Highly CitedThe Causes of Hair Loss in Women 20-30 Years Old
Early investigation of vitamins, minerals, and hormones levels is crucial in young women with alopecia, as deficiency of vitamin D, low zinc levels, and irregular periods are common.
Serum vitamin D level is related to disease severity in pediatric alopecia areata
Serum vitamin D levels are related to disease severity in pediatric alopecia areata, suggesting a potential link between vitamin D deficiency and autoimmune diseases.
Rigorous JournalEffect of zinc, ferritin, and vitamin B12 deficiency on hair loss in pregnant women
Pregnant women with severe hair loss during their last two trimesters have lower zinc, hemoglobin, PCV, ferritin, and vitamin B12 levels, but not vitamin D or TSH levels.
Rigorous Journal