Hair loss is a real problem for many women. Seeing some strands of hair in the hand while running their fingers through their mane or combing their tresses, can be scary. Therefore, women end up trying different hair masks, medicines or treatments. But what you really need first is to find out the reason for the hair loss. You may think it’s stress or genetics or pollution, but vitamin deficiency may be the cause of hair loss!
Health Shots linked up with Dr Sachith Abraham, Consultant – Dermatology, Manipal Hospital, Old Airport Road, Bengaluru and Dr Sandeep Babbar, Medical Director and Dermatologist, Revyve Skin, Hair and Nail Clinic, Faridabad to find out the link between vitamin deficiency and hair loss . .
Dr. Abraham agrees that hair loss is a growing and common concern for people. There are various factors that can contribute to this condition. One of the lesser known factors that can affect hair health is vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Vitamins and minerals play an important role in maintaining healthy hair, and an excess or lack of them can affect hair growth and lead to hair loss.
Hair loss and vitamins
There are 13 essential vitamins, and deficiency of vitamin B12 and D3 causes hair loss, says Dr Babbar. Red blood cells, which carry oxygen to your hair follicles, are facilitated by vitamin B12. And when your vitamin B12 levels are insufficient, your hair follicles may not be able to produce new hair effectively. You may see hair loss occur due to this.
Deficiency of other vitamins such as vitamins A, E and C can also contribute to hair loss, said Dr Abraham. Here is the role these vitamins play in hair health:
• Vitamin A helps in the production of sebum, which is an oily liquid that lubricates the scalp and prevents hair from becoming dry and brittle.
• Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps in improving blood circulation in the scalp, and helps in hair growth.
• As for vitamin C, it is important for collagen synthesis, which provides structural support to the hair shaft. Vitamin C plays a role in the absorption of iron in the intestine. Therefore, your body needs vitamin C, especially for hair loss due to iron deficiency.
Vitamin D excess and hair loss
You may know vitamin D as the “sunshine vitamin”. That’s because it’s a substance produced by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight. You can also get it through healthy foods and supplements. Dr Abraham says vitamin D plays a major role in promoting hair growth and keeping hair healthy. However, excessive consumption of vitamin D supplements can lead to calcium accumulation in the body, which can cause hair loss.
Ignore the minerals
Vitamins are important for hair health, but don’t neglect minerals. Iron, zinc, selenium and magnesium are other minerals that are important for hair health, said Dr. Abraham. While selenium helps synthesize antioxidants that protect hair follicles from damage, magnesium is essential for protein synthesis, which is important for hair growth. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, which can cause hair loss due to reduced oxygen to the hair follicles. Another mineral deficiency in vegetable food is Zinc as it helps in the production and repair of hair cells, and its deficiency can lead to hair loss and hair loss.
Tips for treating hair loss due to vitamin or mineral deficiency
Eating foods rich in vitamins and minerals is one way to do it. Dr. Babbar says blood tests are some of the things that should be taken first to know the real cause of hair loss. Based on that, addition is recommended. By taking a supplement specifically designed for hair growth, you can get all the vitamins you need to prevent hair loss. But please avoid self-diagnosis and self-medication, as taking too many vitamins and minerals can have negative effects on overall health.
