Can iron deficiency cause hair loss?
Iron deficiency may contribute to hair loss by affecting the normal hair growth cycle and increasing hair shedding. It is most commonly associated with diffuse thinning across the scalp rather than distinct bald patches. Low iron stores, even without anaemia, may be linked to hair shedding in some individuals, although the strength of this association varies.
Key points:
- Iron deficiency may disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to increased shedding.
- It is typically associated with diffuse thinning across the scalp.
- Low ferritin levels without anaemia may be linked to hair loss, although evidence is not consistent.
- There is general clinical recognition of an association, but evidence for a direct causal relationship is limited.
This text has been fact-checked for accuracy by Sorin Romaniuc, Pharmacist at medino.