Vitamin D Deficiency
What is Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is the vitamin that regulates the absorption of minerals such as calcium and phosphorus in the body. It also plays an important role in immune system health, bone health and cellular function.
Vitamin D is synthesized from sunlight and is also found in some foods. Vitamin D production in the body varies depending on factors such as duration of exposure to sunlight, skin color, age, seasonal changes and geographical location.
Vitamin D Deficiency and Hair Loss
Vitamin D deficiency can cause hair loss. Vitamin D affects the production of calcitriol, which helps keep hair follicles healthy. Vitamin D deficiency reduces the production of calcitriol and can weaken hair follicles. This leads to hair loss and thinning hair.
Vitamin D deficiency can also affect the hair growth cycle. The hair growth cycle consists of growth, resting and shedding phases. Vitamin D deficiency can disrupt this cycle and cause the hair to enter the shedding phase. As a result, hair loss and thinning hair can occur.
Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D deficiency can manifest itself in a variety of symptoms. These include fatigue, weakness, muscle and joint pain, depression, bone weakness, brittle nails and hair loss.
How is Vitamin D Deficiency Diagnosed?
A blood test is required to diagnose vitamin D deficiency. The blood test measures vitamin D levels in the body. Under normal conditions, vitamin D levels are considered to be 20-50 ng/mL. Vitamin D deficiency can be diagnosed if the vitamin D level is below 20 ng/mL. However, some experts state that vitamin D levels should be between 30-50 ng/mL.
The Effect of Vitamin D Supplement Use on Hair Loss
Vitamin D supplements are used to increase vitamin D levels in the body and to overcome deficiency. Supplements are usually used in tablet or drop form.
Vitamin D supplements can stimulate hair growth and reduce hair loss. However, other factors behind hair loss should also be considered.
Vitamin D Deficiency and Hair Loss Treatment
If you are experiencing hair loss due to vitamin D deficiency, it is advisable to consult a doctor. Your doctor will check your vitamin D levels and recommend supplements if necessary. In addition to vitamin D supplements, your doctor may recommend other treatment methods for hair loss.
Other methods used to treat hair loss include topical medications, hair mesotherapy, hair transplantation and laser treatment. It is important to consult a dermatologist or hair transplant specialist to determine which treatment method is right for you.
