Understanding the Link Between Vitamin Deficiency and Hair Loss

Hair loss can be a distressing experience, affecting not only your appearance but also your confidence. Did you know that one of the common yet often overlooked causes of hair loss is vitamin deficiency? Ensuring you have the right nutrients can significantly impact the health and strength of your hair. In this blog, we'll explore which vitamin deficiencies can lead to hair loss and how you can address them effectively.

What Causes Hair Loss?

Genetic Factors

Genetics play a significant role in hair loss, especially in conditions like androgenetic alopecia, which affects both men and women.

Aging

As we age, hair growth slows, and hair strands become smaller and lose pigment, leading to thinning hair.

Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal changes due to pregnancy, menopause, thyroid issues, or other conditions can lead to hair loss.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Lack of essential nutrients, especially vitamins and minerals, can weaken hair and lead to hair loss.

Stress and Illness

Physical or emotional stress, severe illness, and medical treatments can cause hair shedding and loss.

Key Vitamin Deficiencies Leading to Hair Loss

Vitamin D Deficiency

Role in Hair Health: Vitamin D is crucial for the creation of new hair follicles, which are necessary for hair growth.

Symptoms: Hair loss, fatigue, bone pain, and muscle weakness.

Sources and Supplementation Tips:

• Sunlight exposure
• Foods like fatty fish, fortified milk, and cereals
• Vitamin D supplements

Scientific Insight: A study published in the International Journal of Dermatology found that individuals with alopecia areata had significantly lower levels of vitamin D compared to those without hair loss. Supplementing vitamin D could potentially improve hair regrowth. Additionally, research indicates that vitamin D plays a significant role in the differentiation and proliferation of keratinocytes, which are essential for hair growth​ (Byrdie)​​

Expert Opinion: Dr. Michele Green, a dermatologist, explains that vitamin D is metabolized in the skin by keratinocytes. When the body lacks sufficient vitamin D, these cells struggle to facilitate hair growth, resulting in shedding and hair loss. Dr. Scott Paviol recommends that individuals experiencing hair loss get their vitamin D levels checked and consider supplementation if deficient​ (Byrdie)​.

Biotin (Vitamin B7) Deficiency

Importance for Hair Strength: Biotin helps in the production of keratin, a protein that strengthens hair.

Symptoms: Hair thinning, dry skin, and fatigue.

How to Boost Biotin Intake:

• Consume eggs, nuts, and whole grains
• Biotin supplements

Iron Deficiency

Role in Oxygenating Hair Follicles: Iron deficiency is the leading cause of hair loss in women. Iron is crucial for producing hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to hair follicles. Without enough oxygen, hair growth is stunted, leading to hair thinning and loss. Menstruation depletes ferritin stores, making women more susceptible to iron deficiency.

Symptoms: Hair loss, dizziness, fatigue, and pale skin.

Dietary Sources and Supplementation:

• Eat red meat, leafy greens, and beans
• Iron supplements (take with vitamin c to increase absorbtion!)

Hair is considered a non-vital organ, so when iron levels are low, the body prioritizes oxygen delivery to essential organs, reducing supply to hair follicles and causing hair loss.

Scientific Insight: According to a study published in the Journal of Korean Medical Science, low ferritin levels are closely associated with increased hair shedding. Restoring iron levels can help reverse hair loss in iron-deficient individuals. Another study by Trost, Bergfeld, and Calogeras (2006) reported that iron deficiency is more common in women with hair loss than those without​ (Carie Boyd)​​ (Cleveland Clinic)​.

Expert Opinion: Dr. Melissa Piliang, a dermatologist at the Cleveland Clinic, emphasizes that iron is vital for hair growth and health. She notes that many women experiencing hair loss are often found to have low iron levels and recommends dietary changes and supplements to correct this deficiency​ (Cleveland Clinic)​.

Vitamin E Deficiency

Antioxidant Properties: Vitamin E protects hair follicles from oxidative stress and free radicals.

Symptoms: Hair loss, weak muscles, and impaired coordination.

Sources of Vitamin E:

• Nuts, seeds, and spinach
• Vitamin E supplements

Solutions for Hair Loss

To set yourself up for success in combating hair loss, it’s essential to treat it both internally and topically.

Super Roots Oil

Benefits and Ingredients: Super Roots Oil is infused with natural ingredients designed to nourish your scalp and strengthen hair roots. It contains essential oils and vitamins that promote healthy hair growth.

How it Nourishes the Scalp and Strengthens Hair Roots: The blend of essential oils and nutrients in Super Roots Oil promotes healthy hair growth and revitalizes your scalp. Regular use can help restore shine and volume to thinning hair.

Dermaroller

How it Works (Micro-Needling): The Dermaroller stimulates hair follicles through micro-needling, enhancing blood flow and nutrient delivery to the scalp.

Benefits for Scalp Health and Hair Growth: Regular use of the Dermaroller can improve scalp health and encourage new hair growth. It works by creating tiny micro-injuries that trigger the body’s natural healing process, promoting collagen production and increasing nutrient supply to hair follicles.

From Our Community: Hair Health Journeys

Noora used the hair growth duo and saw amazing results!

'when I had my beautiful boy I suffered from postpartum hair loss. I’ve always had really thick healthy hair so It made me feel really sad and self conscious. But then along came bia. I’ve been using the super roots oil and dermaroller that I’ve been using for a few months and I’ve got my thick beautiful hair back. I’m so happy'