Hair loss can occur in men or women, over 70% of men and 50% of women can experience hair loss and thinning hair.. Now, there are several reasons behind hair loss. Most of which indicate alopecia. Hair loss problems can cause heredity triggered due to emotional or physical stress. can result due to drugs or other medical conditions. Hair health depends on lifestyle choices and overall diet. Proper nutrition and regular maintenance prove effective in managing hair loss problems and preventing the condition to a certain extent.
It is a complex procedure to identify the significant reason behind hair loss and solve the problem.
Recent studies have unravelled the fact that vitamin deficiency can be one significant cause of hair loss. Vitamins are micro-nutrients imperative for different physiological processes in the human body, including hair growth and even its maintenance. And any deficiency of vitamins can cause or trigger hair loss.
Which vitamins are essential for hair health?
The primary structure of hair is formed by a protein- keratin. When new hair cells are produced in these follicles, old ones are pushed out. Therefore, it is not an alarming situation if you see a few stray hairs on your brush. About 90% of the hair on a human scalp is growing. Each follicle has a lifespan that can be divided into three broad categories as discussed below:
Anagen: The first stage is where the hair grows actively for two to eight years.
Catagen: At this stage, the hair grows at a slow pace for two to three weeks.
Telogen: That's the resting phase. This is when the growth of hair thwarts and continues for about two to three months or so. After that, the hair sheds, and new hair strands begin to grow.
Our hair necessitates a proper supply of vitamins to remain healthy. Vitamins are co-enzymes facilitating various bio-chemical reactions which aid hair growth and play an imperative role in providing strength and texture to the hair. The essential vitamins that are studied to have a profound effect on hair health are – vitamins A, E, D, and B complex. In most cases, a balanced diet supplies the necessary nutrients and minerals required for the well-being of the human body.
Vitamin A: This vitamin promotes the production of sebum. It is an oily substance that helps moisturize the scalp and prevent hair strands from drying out. However, deficiency, as well as excessive vitamin A, can lead to loss of hair.
Vitamin D: The D vitamin we receive mainly from sunlight is essential for the hair follicle cycle and maintaining hair density. Hair thinning can be attributed to the deficiency of vitamin D.
Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an anti-oxidant. It keeps the hair follicle safe from oxidative damage. A deficiency in vitamin E can weaken hair follicles, leading to excessive hair falls.
Vitamin B complex: Some of the B vitamins like B3(niacin), B7(biotin), and B12 (cobalamin) are often associated with healthy hair. Biotin is the most essential as it is necessary for the production of keratin, a protein that makes up hair strands.
Why does vitamin deficiency lead to hair loss?
Vitamins play a pivotal role in supporting hair growth in the anagen phase and resisting excessive hair shedding therefore, when your body lacks vitamins the cycle can be disrupted, leading to hair loss.
Vitamin deficiency can affect hair in many ways:
Disruption in the growth of hair: Vitamins play a crucial role in the growth cycle of hair follicles, and their deficiency can make the follicle shift from the anagen phase to the telogen phase. It results in excessive hair loss.
Weaker strands of hair: Vitamins are crucial in keratin production that form the essential structural component of hair. Any deficiency can lead to weaker strands, making them susceptible to breakage and shedding.
Reduced blood circulation: Vitamins help in the process of blood circulation, thus ensuring the supply of nutrients to each hair follicle. Deficiencies lead to reduced blood flow to the scalp, limiting nutrient supply and above all hampering healthy hair growth.
Oxidative stress: Lack of vitamin E means lower antioxidants that prove damaging to the hair follicles and thus cause hair loss.
How to prevent hair loss due to vitamin deficiency?
A well-balanced diet fortified with vitamins, minerals, and other healthy nutrients can support the growth of healthy hair. If you are experiencing excessive hair loss, take the help of a dermatologist to find out the root cause. If it is due to vitamin deficiency, the professional will suggest the needed supplements to combat the issue.
Moreover, to manage hair issues, there are natural hair care products like biotin shampoo and biotin and keratin conditioner, and biotin hair restoration spray. The best use of such products can be beneficial in combating hair loss issues. These products are developed to supply adequate minerals and vitamins that can reduce hair loss and even prevent breakage and thus help in restoring your hair’s natural strength.
