Vitamin deficiencies. Deficiencies in vitamins A, B, C, D, and E, as well as iron and zinc, have been associated with hair loss.
In another study, 15 alopecia patients with low serum zinc levels were given zinc supplements for 12 weeks. Out of the 15 patients, seven showed a marked recovery, meaning they experienced hair regrowth of more than 60 percent on their hair loss patch.
Although zinc supplements may help to treat hair shedding if you have a zinc deficiency, there isn't any scientific evidence that zinc can slow down or reverse male pattern baldness. Instead, you'll get the best results by treating hair loss with science-based hair loss treatments such as minoxidil and finasteride.
Screening in those with risk factors is indicated, as hair loss due to zinc deficiency can be reversed.
There could be another underlying issue causing your hair loss or other symptoms, so always consult with a medical professional first,” Dr. Ben Lynch, a naturopathic doctor and founder of Seeking Health. The recommended amounts of zinc are 11mg for males and 8mg for females a day, which can change with age.
What are the symptoms of zinc deficiency? Zinc deficiency can result in skin changes that look like eczema at first. There may be cracks and a glazed appearance on the skin, often found around the mouth, nappy area and hands. The rash doesn't get better with moisturisers or steroid creams or lotions.
Zinc supports hair growth, strengthens hair follicles and increases thickness. Just as zinc deficiency can cause hair loss, so can excess levels of zinc. Taking zinc supplements in moderation with proper medical advice is key.
Only riboflavin, biotin, folate, and vitamin B12 deficiencies have been associated with hair loss.
“Vitamins are essential for healthy hair growth and may help in preventing hair shedding and thinning,” says Michele Green, M.D., a cosmetic dermatologist in New York. “The best vitamins for hair growth include B vitamins, vitamin D, vitamin E, zinc, biotin and iron.
Usually, zinc replacement therapy is continued for 3–4 months. If initiated within 6 months after the onset of zinc deficiency, the response rate to this therapy (the percentage of cases where the therapy is effective or markedly effective) is 70% or higher.
Zinc deficiency in humans is caused by reduced dietary intake, inadequate absorption, increased loss, or increased body system use. The most common cause is reduced dietary intake. In the U.S., the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) is 8 mg/day for women and 11 mg/day for men.
Magnesium deficiency causes alopecia, an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss. Alopecia occurs when the immune system attacks the hair follicles, leading to hair loss on the scalp, face, and body. Hair follicles are particularly vulnerable to attack when magnesium levels are low.
Adverse effects of high zinc intake include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and headaches. Intakes of 150–450 mg of zinc per day have been associated with such chronic effects as low copper status, altered iron function and reduced immune function.
The nutrient also helps inhibit hair follicle regression and may accelerate the healing of hair follicles. Oral zinc sulfate can help treat patchy alopecia areata with a low relapse rate after cessation i.
Zinc is a mineral that is essential for many of the body's normal functions and systems, including the immune system, wound healing, blood clotting, thyroid function, and the senses of taste and smell. Zinc also supports normal growth and development during pregnancy, childhood and adolescence.
Both men and women tend to lose hair thickness and amount as they age. This type of baldness is not usually caused by a disease. It is related to aging, heredity, and changes in the hormone testosterone. Inherited, or pattern baldness, affects many more men than women.
Biotin (Vitamin B7)
Biotin is one of the eight B vitamins and one of the best vitamins for thicker hair. Biotin helps your body break down the food you eat into energy. It also plays a vital role in the production of keratin, the protein that makes up hair.
Can thin hair become thicker again? A person cannot change the texture of their hair. However, the hair may grow back after chemotherapy or pregnancy, for example.
While most hair loss, also known as alopecia, is genetic, vitamin deficiencies can cause hair loss or worsen existing hair loss. Fortunately, most vitamin deficiencies related to hair thinning are not common. If they are present, they're usually reversible.
Symptom of a medical illness — Hair loss can be one of the symptoms of a medical illness, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus), syphilis, a thyroid disorder (such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism), a sex-hormone imbalance or a serious nutritional problem, especially a deficiency of protein, iron, zinc or ...
Zinc deficiency at any age can cause a loss of taste and smell. In older adults, zinc deficiency can delay wound healing and cause problems with thinking, reasoning, and memory. In lower-income countries, zinc deficiency during pregnancy can cause premature births and other complications.
What are the best sources of zinc? The best source of zinc is oysters, but it's also plentiful in red meat and poultry. Other good sources are beans, nuts, crab, lobster, whole grains, breakfast cereals, and dairy products.