Hair loss is a common concern affecting millions of people worldwide. Whether it’s thinning, receding hairlines, or bald patches, the impact of hair loss on one’s confidence and self-esteem can be substantial.

What is Hair Loss?

Hair loss, medically known as alopecia, is a condition characterised by the partial or complete absence of hair from areas where it normally grows. This phenomenon can manifest in various forms, from gradual thinning to sudden, significant hair shedding. Understanding the different causes of hair loss is crucial for devising suitable prevention and treatment plans.

Causes and Risk Factors of Hair Loss

The causes of hair loss can be multifaceted, ranging from genetics and hormonal changes to lifestyle and nutritional deficiencies. Among the plethora of factors contributing to hair loss, micronutrient deficiency plays a significant role. Some of the causes are:

• Micronutrient deficiency

• Hashimotos

• Hypothyroidism

• PCOS

• Post viral stress

• Stressful event

• Protein deficiency

• Malabsorption

• Malnutrition

• Medications

• Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy

A comprehensive understanding of these causative factors helps in adopting targeted approaches for preventing and managing hair loss effectively.

Vitamins and Minerals Important for Hair Growth

Studies have shed light on the critical role of vitamins and minerals in hair health. Micronutrients like vitamin A, vitamin B complex, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, iron, selenium, and zinc play pivotal roles in the normal hair follicle cycle and immune cell function. Deficiencies in these micronutrients can potentially contribute to hair loss.

The Study: ‘The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review’

A study conducted to explore the link between micronutrients and non-scarring alopecia emphasises the significance of proper nutrition in maintaining healthy hair. The review discusses the roles of various vitamins and minerals in the hair cycle, highlighting their importance in both development and immune defense mechanisms. The findings suggest that addressing micronutrient deficiencies could be a modifiable risk factor for preventing and treating hair loss.

Many nutrients and conditions can be measured through various pathology testing, this is the best place to start as it allows you to identify where your issues are and helps direct more targeted treatment.

References:

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13555-018-0278-6

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0738081X21000729

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5315033/

https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/lap.2020.0468