Iron deficiency is considered one of the most common—and most overlooked—causes of hair loss. An estimated one billion people worldwide suffer from this condition, according to a recent study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.
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The study revealed that among 96 women suffering from hair loss, aged between 3 and 75 years, 19% were found to have iron deficiency. This indicates that checking iron levels in the blood should be one of the first steps taken when abnormal hair loss occurs.
Tests show that iron plays a vital role in the production of hemoglobin, the protein responsible for delivering oxygen to hair follicles. When iron levels are low, hair growth slows down, and hair becomes more fragile and prone to shedding. Proper diagnosis is the most important step in addressing this issue, as it helps identify the underlying cause. Experts stress the importance of conducting a comprehensive blood test that goes beyond measuring iron levels alone, in order to obtain an accurate picture and determine the cause of hair loss and any accompanying health conditions.
Once iron deficiency is confirmed, priority is given to restoring iron levels in the body to normal. This is achieved by following a diet rich in red meat, leafy green vegetables, legumes, and dried fruits. However, in most cases, dietary supplements are also necessary, provided that certain rules are followed—such as avoiding coffee and tea when taking supplements, focusing on vitamin C to enhance absorption, and not taking iron together with calcium.
It is worth noting that treatment in this area requires consistency and patience to achieve the desired results. Experts indicate that it often takes around nine months for blood iron levels to return to normal, which in turn positively affects hair growth.
Effective Cosmetic Treatments
Compensating for iron deficiency is the primary step in treating this type of hair loss, but cosmetic treatments can also provide significant support. Techniques such as microneedling combined with exosomes, when performed by specialists, can stimulate hair growth. This approach, inspired by regenerative medicine, helps supply hair follicles with essential proteins, fats, and nucleic acids needed for cellular communication, stimulating scalp activity and enhancing follicle health.
LED light therapy can also be effective. Using helmets equipped with LED light activates hair follicles in the growth phase, reduces inflammation, improves blood circulation, and enhances hair density.
While these cosmetic treatments do not replace correcting iron deficiency, they help enhance its benefits for individuals experiencing abnormal hair loss.
Treatment also includes caring for hair fibers, which become more fragile and prone to breakage due to iron deficiency. This highlights the importance of protecting hair from the heat of electrical styling tools, avoiding hairstyles that pull tightly on the hair, and using silk pillowcases to prevent breakage and excessive dryness. In addition, using serums specifically designed to strengthen the scalp is recommended.
Al Arabiya
