What vitamin deficiency causes hair loss?

Excessive hair loss may be caused by a deficiency in certain nutrients, such as vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin D, or minerals like iron and zinc.

1. Vitamin A

Vitamin A helps maintain skin integrity and prevents excessive dryness and keratinization of mucous membranes and epithelial cells. A deficiency in vitamin A can lead to follicular keratosis, resulting in dry, dull hair and increased hair shedding.

2. Vitamin B

Vitamin B helps maintain skin health, supports scalp hair follicles and sebaceous glands, and promotes scalp metabolism. A deficiency in vitamin B may cause overproduction of sebum, leading to clogged hair follicles, hair loss, or seborrheic dermatitis.

3. Vitamin D

A deficiency in vitamin D may result in excessive sebum production in hair follicles, causing symptoms such as dry, thinning hair and frequent hair loss.

4. Iron

Iron is an essential trace element involved in hemoglobin synthesis and electron transport in cellular mitochondria, maintaining normal physiological functions. Insufficient iron levels may impair keratin protein synthesis in hair, disrupt normal hair growth, and lead to poor hair quality and increased shedding.

5. Zinc

Zinc plays a role in DNA synthesis, tissue repair, and cell division. A deficiency in zinc may affect nutrient supply to the hair, causing it to become thin, weak, and prone to breakage.

It is recommended to undergo trace element testing at a hospital and supplement the corresponding nutrients based on test results. Additionally, ensuring adequate sleep and maintaining a positive mood can help alleviate symptoms.