Which Vitamin Deficiency Causes Hair Loss?

20 May, 2024 | Hair Loss | Author : Shveta Virmani

Hair fall is more common in both women and men today than it was a few decades ago. Many young adults experience severe hair fall issues for several reasons. Aside from genetic factors, extreme stress, poor lifestyle and unhealthy dietary choices affect the hair. Undeniably, a full head of hair makes one look aesthetically appealing; thus, caring for it is essential.

The holistic well-being of an individual is easier to understand by their healthy, shiny hair. However, not every person knows how to keep their scalp hair in top condition. Therefore, the number of men and women between 25 and 45 dealing with hair thinning and shedding is increasing sharply. One of the major reasons for hair loss is a significant deficiency in essential vitamins.

Hair follicles require all sorts of necessary nutrients to foster the growth of strong, thick and healthy hair. Certain vitamins are instrumental in improving the strength, density, colour and lustre of hair. Lack of essential vitamins in the body can lead to white or gray hair, besides causing hair fall. A credible study found that the prevalence of premature hair greying was 27.3%.

Read on to understand vitamins highly crucial for healthy hair.

Which Vitamins Contribute to Healthy Hair Growth?

Hair follicles keep functioning ceaselessly for the production of keratin. It is the only protein forming the main structure of a hair strand. For optimal function, hair follicles require the right amount of various vitamins.

Vitamin A

You don't have to experience hair fall and undergo a hair loss treatment if you eat food rich in Vitamin A. This crucial vitamin supports the health of the scalp, creating an environment conducive to healthy hair growth. Vitamin A helps boost the production of sebum, which keeps hair nourished and moisturised. It does not let scalp hair turn dry.

Vitamin B Complex

Biotin or B7 is one of the B Vitamins known for producing keratin. On the other hand, B3 or niacin, B5 or pantothenic acid and B12 add to the metabolism of cells. So, following a Vitamin B Complex enriched diet can keep your scalp healthy and promote faster growth of hair.

Vitamin C

Unstable molecules and free radicals end up damaging hair cells. Thus, having seasonal fruits and vegetables rich in Vitamin C is a must. It ensures the utmost protection to hair cells, preventing hair from shedding. This vitamin helps increase collagen production remarkably, a protein ensuring the required structural assistance to the scalp.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D contributes to the rapid growth of new, healthy, and thick hair. According to a trusted study, this vitamin controls the cycle of hair growth and fosters hair follicle activities.

Vitamin E

Try to include Vitamin E-enriched food in your regular diet. This vitamin helps ensure the delivery of all essential nutrients to follicles. It is regarded as an antioxidant superhero, safeguarding hair against oxidative stress and improving blood circulation.

You won't have to experience hair loss if your daily diet consists of all these beneficial vitamins in the appropriate amount. Make this a priority, besides taking proper care of your hair. 50.31% of men below 25 years old in India experience hair fall problems.

Lack of Which Vitamins Adversely Impact Hair

Vitamins that a human body needs for proper functioning are indispensable for healthy hair growth. Sticking to a well-balanced diet is paramount to enable your body to get the essential vitamins and minerals. Here's what can happen to your hair when specific vitamins are deficient.

Vitamin A deficiency in significant amounts can cause brittle and dry hair, aside from increasing dandruff problems.
Vitamin B7 and B12 deficiency cause hair dryness, thinning and shedding.
Vitamin C deficiency makes hair brittle and dryer, slowing down the growth of healthy hair.
Vitamin D deficiency causes alopecia mostly in men.

Besides Vitamin deficiency, severe zinc and iron deficiency can put scalp and hair at a significant risk. Most women experience extreme hair fall owing to a lack of iron in the body. On the other hand, a deficiency in adequate quantity of zinc causes itchy, dry scalps in men and women.

Which Crucial Factors Cause Deficiency in Vitamins?

Vitamin deficiency is common in many individuals with certain medical conditions, dietary restrictions, etc. Here are the most vital factors that lead to deficiency in vitamins in one's body.

Unhealthy Dietary Habits: Those who cannot stick to a nutrient-rich diet on a regular basis often experience hair shedding. The food you consume daily should be rich in protein, calories, vitamins and minerals.

Loss of Blood: Vitamin deficiency is common in women with extreme menstrual cycles, issues or mishaps that cause severe blood loss.

Digestive System Problems: Inflammatory bowel disorder, pancreatic issues, celiac disease, and other conditions can prevent the absorption of nutrients. Ultimately, one begins to experience a lack of vitamins in the body.

Genetic Disorders: Genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis significantly cause vitamin (A, D, E and K) deficiencies.

Medications: Many people who experience hair fall and opt for a hair loss treatment have vitamin deficiencies due to certain medicines. Medications that one takes for underlying health conditions constrain nutrient absorption.

Smoking and Alcohol: Deficiency in essential vitamins is common in people who smoke and drink alcohol often. Most of these individuals experience various hair-related problems.

Importance of Hair Nourishment

Following a nutritious diet, you can lay a strong foundation for healthier, thicker, and shinier hair. It must consist of all requisite vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. Your scalp will be in top condition, and your hair will stay well-nourished if you drink plenty of water. Massage your scalp gently at frequent intervals and avoid hairstyles that strain the scalp and damage hair.

Consult experts at MedLinks to learn the exact reason why you've been experiencing hair-specific issues for quite a while. Seasoned hair treatment specialists at Delhi's top hair transplant clinic in Delhi can help you overcome the problem effectively.