Iron

Iron is a mineral essential for various bodily functions, including hormone synthesis and the production of hemoglobin, a vital protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen throughout the body.

Iron supplements are commonly prescribed for individuals with iron deficiencies, with women often experiencing this during menstruation. Iron is also used in the treatment of conditions like heart failure, memory and cognitive issues, fatigue, and lack of concentration.

In the realm of alopecia, iron is widely used, especially for women facing hair loss. You can find iron in many shampoos and nearly all hair supplements.

Is it effective in combating hair loss?

As of now, we have a wealth of studies and information concerning the connection between iron and hair loss. Based on my research, iron may influence hair loss in the following manner:

Iron deficiency and hair loss

When our bodies lack sufficient iron, they can’t produce enough hemoglobin, a critical component for oxygen transport in the blood. Hemoglobin is vital for the growth and repair of various cells in our bodies, including those involved in hair growth.

Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional shortfall globally and is linked to a range of health issues, such as developmental delays, behavioral changes, reduced cognitive function, and increased susceptibility to infections.

In a 2013 study conducted by Song Youn Park and colleagues, it was observed that a significant proportion of women with androgenetic alopecia had lower serum ferritin levels compared to those with no hair loss. The study also examined men, with 22.7% exhibiting low serum ferritin levels.

Ferritin, a blood protein containing iron, serves as an indicator of iron levels.

Numerous other studies and articles corroborate this relationship, with varying results showing that iron deficiency can manifest in different forms of alopecia, including alopecia areata, androgenetic alopecia, or telogen effluvium (source) (source) (source).

Based on these and many other studies, it’s evident that iron deficiency is, in some cases, a contributing factor to hair loss and, in others, exacerbates it.

Now, you might wonder whether taking iron supplements can stimulate hair growth and prevent hair loss if you don’t have an iron deficiency. In such cases, taking additional iron is unlikely to be beneficial; instead, it may even lead to hair loss. Moreover, excessive iron intake can pose a risk of organ damage. Therefore, caution is warranted when considering iron supplementation.

Closing thoughts and verdict

In my view, using iron supplements might be effective in reducing or treating various types of hair loss, but only if these hair loss issues are either caused or exacerbated by an iron deficiency.

Typically, men are less prone to iron deficiency, but if you are indeed deficient, I strongly recommend addressing that deficiency.

However, if you do not have an iron deficiency, iron supplements will not be of any use in combating your hair loss; in fact, excessive iron intake may even worsen the problem. In such cases, I would recommend exploring more effective treatment options.

Precautions & side effects

• Taking iron supplements with food may reduce side effects, but food can also limit iron absorption by the body.
• Black tea hinders iron absorption; avoid drinking it while eating.
• Possible allergic reactions in some people.
• May cause side effects such as stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting.
• Never exceed the 45mg daily iron limit; risks of side effects are high beyond this.
• Caution for pregnant and breastfeeding women; do not exceed recommended doses.
• Iron from supplements may not be well absorbed in individuals undergoing hemodialysis. If you have a hemoglobin disorder, do not take iron without your doctor’s advice.
• Taking iron may increase the risk of nosebleeds in THH patients.
• Giving iron to premature babies with low vitamin E levels can lead to severe problems; address low vitamin E levels before administering iron.