Severe hair loss: What is it lacking?

Generally, severe hair loss may be caused by deficiencies in protein, iron, vitamin B7 (biotin), vitamin D, zinc, and other nutrients. The details are as follows:

1. Protein

Hair is primarily composed of keratin. If the body lacks sufficient protein, hair follicles cannot obtain enough raw material to synthesize keratin, which hinders hair growth and makes hair brittle and prone to breakage, leading to severe hair loss. Therefore, it's important to replenish protein promptly.

2. Iron

Iron plays a key role in hemoglobin synthesis and helps deliver oxygen to various tissues throughout the body, including hair follicles. A lack of iron reduces oxygen supply to the follicles, impairing normal hair growth and causing dryness and hair shedding. Thus, adequate iron intake should be ensured.

3. Vitamin B7 (Biotin)

Vitamin B7 is essential for maintaining healthy hair, as it promotes scalp metabolism and supports strong hair growth. Deficiency in vitamin B7 disrupts the scalp environment, depriving hair of necessary nutritional support and resulting in excessive hair loss. This deficiency can be addressed through dietary or supplemental intake.

4. Vitamin D

Vitamin D helps regulate the hair follicle growth cycle and maintain normal follicular function. When vitamin D is deficient, the hair growth cycle becomes disrupted, causing hair to prematurely enter the resting phase (telogen), which leads to significant hair shedding. Adequate vitamin D levels should therefore be maintained.

5. Zinc

Zinc is involved in the synthesis of numerous enzymes in the body and plays a vital role in cell growth and division—processes critical for hair growth, which depends on the regular division of hair follicle cells. Zinc deficiency can impair cell division in the follicles, slowing hair growth and increasing hair shedding. Timely zinc supplementation is recommended.

In addition, severe hair loss may also be associated with medical conditions such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. It's also important to maintain a positive mindset and avoid excessive stress or anxiety in daily life.