Vitamin deficiency that causes hair loss

Follicles respond to the body’s overall supply of energy, protein and nutrients. Reduced intake, absorption problems or ongoing illness can disturb the growth cycle and lead to diffuse shedding. Hair may appear thinner across the scalp rather than falling from one isolated area.

The shape of loss still matters. Gradual recession or a widening part may reflect inherited pattern loss; smooth patches suggest a different process; scale and broken hairs can accompany scalp infection; and tight hairstyles can cause traction. A deficiency may coexist with one of these conditions.

Arrange a consultation for ongoing or visible hair loss. Share your diet, recent illness, weight change, digestive symptoms, menstrual history, medicines, supplements and family history. Examination and targeted tests can help distinguish a correctable deficiency from other causes.

Prioritise varied meals and gentle hair care while waiting. Avoid taking iron, biotin or multiple high-dose products without advice. Once a deficiency is confirmed, treatment should address its cause as well as replacing the nutrient, with follow-up to assess shedding and regrowth.

Seek prompt review for rapid loss, sharply defined bald patches, scalp inflammation, crusting, pus, broken hairs, or loss of eyebrows or eyelashes. Contact urgent services for a severe allergic reaction after a supplement. Early assessment matters when infection or ongoing traction may damage follicles.

Ask which deficiency tests fit your symptoms, whether the pattern suggests telogen effluvium or another diagnosis, and what improvement timeline is realistic after treatment. Ask whether current styling, medicines or supplements could be affecting the follicles.