3 Signs of Hair Fall from Vitamin Deficiency, Explained by Dermatologist

Hair fall affects millions of women worldwide, yet many dismiss it as a superficial cosmetic issue. However, according to medical experts, your thinning locks could be your body's way of waving a red flag about your nutritional health.

How Vitamin Deficiency Affects Hair Growth

Dr Sai Lahari Rachumallu, MBBS, MD(DVL), Associate Consultant - Dermatology at Manipal Hospitals, Bhubaneswar, explains the crucial link between nutrition and hair health. "Hair fall is believed by many to be superficial, but it is the exterior sign of some kind of frightful health issue," says Dr Rachumallu.

The dermatologist further emphasises that vitamin deficiency is "perhaps one of the most underappreciated reasons for hair loss." This happens because your body operates on a survival priority system.

"Because hair is not necessary for survival, your body can reorder its priorities when vital nutrients are low, and that can mean hair fades into the background, so to speak, and becomes the first thing to go when your diet isn't optimal," she explains.

Key Vitamins Your Hair Needs to Stay Healthy

Understanding which vitamins are crucial for healthy hair can help you identify potential deficiencies before they lead to significant hair loss. Here are the key players:

Vitamin D

“This encourages hair follicles and keeps the hair growth cycle in check.” A deficiency may slow regrowth and contribute to conditions like alopecia areata, which causes random bald spots.

Vitamin B12

Crucial for forming red blood cells, which transport oxygen to hair roots. Without enough B12, hair can become weak and grow slowly.

Biotin (Vitamin B7)

Helps produce keratin, the main protein in hair. Biotin strengthens both hair and nails.

Vitamin A

Supports a healthy scalp by producing sebum. A deficiency can lead to dryness and hair loss.

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Signs of Hair Fall from Vitamin Deficiency

Dr Rachumallu identifies several key indicators that your hair fall might be related to a vitamin deficiency:

Diffuse Thinning

Consider a general thinning of the hair on your scalp, which may be linked to a lack of vitamin D and B12. This type of hair loss affects the entire scalp rather than specific areas.

Dry, Brittle Hair

If your hair breaks very easily and lacks shine or softness, you may be deficient in biotin, Vitamin A, or Vitamin E. Your hair should feel smooth and have natural lustre when healthy.

Patchy Hair Loss

New bald spots can be a warning sign of a deficit in vitamin D, zinc, or iron, and may warrant immediate attention. These patches often appear suddenly and can be particularly distressing.

Treating Hair Fall Caused by Vitamin Deficiency

Hair loss due to vitamin deficiency is often treatable, says Dr Sai Lahari Rachumallu. "In case you are facing the problem of excessive hair fall, then shampoos, oils, and everything else seem trivial to avoid! It could all start with your gut," she explains.

According to Dr Rachumallu, "nutritional-deficiency hair loss is a correctable, and frequently reversible, category of hair loss."

Steps to Address Vitamin-Related Hair Fall

• Get Tested: A simple blood test can help identify specific deficiencies.
• Improve Your Diet: Focus on nutrient-rich foods to restore internal balance.
• Use Supplements (If Needed): Only under medical supervision.
• Support Overall Health: Through rest, hydration, and reduced stress.

Dr Rachumallu adds, “You can bring back more than just your hair, but also your energy, your skin, and your immune function.”

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