What vitamin am I lacking if my hair is falling out?

Asked by: Stephania Bauch  |  Last update: December 1, 2025
Score: 4.5/5 (8 votes)

Only riboflavin, biotin, folate, and vitamin B12 deficiencies have been associated with hair loss. Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) is a component of two important coenzymes: flavin mononucleotide (FMN) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) [22].

What vitamin will make my hair stop falling out?

Vitamin D is essential for creating the cells that develop into hair follicles. It also supports healthy bones and your immune system. If you have hair loss and low vitamin D levels, your doctor may recommend vitamin D supplements.

Which vitamin deficiency causes hair fall?

Vitamin B12 deficiency is often thought to be one of the causes of hair loss. After all, this micronutrient is needed for deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) synthesis and red blood cell production, both of which are critical to growing new hair fibers.

What is my body lacking if my hair is falling out?

Nutritional deficiency in iron can lead to increased daily shedding of scalp hairs and stunted hair growth, resulting in progressive thinning over time. Doctors can diagnose iron deficiency through a blood test screening serum ferritin levels – readings below 30 ng/mL often indicate deficiency.

How can I stop my hair falling out and thinning?

The most common options include:
  1. Minoxidil (Rogaine). Over-the-counter (nonprescription) minoxidil comes in liquid, foam and shampoo forms. ...
  2. Finasteride (Propecia). This is a prescription drug for men. ...
  3. Other medications. Other oral options include spironolactone (Carospir, Aldactone) and oral dutasteride (Avodart).

HAIR THINNING | 5 Nutrient Deficiencies Linked to Hair Loss (and how to fix it!)

19 related questions found

What does thyroid hair loss look like?

Hair loss and thyroid disease

The loss is diffuse and involves the entire scalp rather than discrete areas. The hair appears uniformly sparse. Regrowth is usual with successful treatment of the thyroid disorder, though it will take several months and may be incomplete.

What does vitamin D hair loss look like?

When deficiency disrupts vitamin D in your scalp, the anagen (growth) phase shortens. This prematurely pushes more resting follicles into the telogen (rest) phase. Excessive shedding occurs, resulting in thinner hair. Research clearly demonstrates this link.

Which blood test is required for hair loss?

Common blood tests used to diagnose hair loss include the Complete Blood Picture (CBC), Iron Serum, TSH test, Ferritin Serum, Vitamin B12, Calcium Serum, and Vitamin D (25-Hydroxy). These tests help identify potential deficiencies or underlying health issues that may contribute to hair thinning or loss.

How long do iron tablets take to stop hair loss?

If iron deficiency is the only reason for your hair loss, you should start seeing improvements within a few months of taking iron supplements. Typically, it takes about 3 to 6 months to see noticeable changes, as hair growth is a gradual process.

Which supplement is best for hair fall?

Biotin remains commonly recommended by hair loss specialists at doses up to 5,000 mcg.

Which foods cause hair loss?

What Foods Can Cause Hair Loss?
  • Sugary Foods. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to an increase in insulin levels, which may result in an imbalance in hormones like androgens. ...
  • Refined Carbohydrates. ...
  • Fried Foods. ...
  • High-Mercury Fish. ...
  • Artificial Sweeteners. ...
  • Processed Foods. ...
  • Excessive Alcohol.

Why am I losing so much hair as a female?

An underlying health condition like an abnormal thyroid, anemia, vitamin deficiency, etc. Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause). Certain medications and supplements (blood pressure medicines, gout medicines and high doses of vitamin A). Genetic predisposition (it runs in your biological family history).

What is the best pill for hair loss?

Oral Finasteride

Finasteride slows the rate of hair loss and stimulates new hair growth by inhibiting the body's production of a hormone that destroys hair follicles. This medication is taken once a day by mouth and is most effective when taken at the same time each day.

Why is my hair falling from the top?

It can be the result of heredity, hormonal changes, medical conditions or a normal part of aging. Anyone can lose hair on their head, but it's more common in men. Baldness typically refers to excessive hair loss from your scalp.

Which vitamin deficiency causes weight gain?

B vitamins deficiency

When you don't get enough B vitamins, your body's energy supply gets low. Without them, your body cannot turn food into the energy it requires, you can feel tired because of it and might end up eating more than your body needs, which can make you gain weight.

Which hormone causes hair loss in females?

Androgenic alopecia is generally used to describe female pattern hair loss, it is the most common cause of hair loss in women. It usually occurs after menopause because of an excess of androgens (“male hormones”) such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) caused by rapidly decreasing estrogen.

Why is my hair so thin I can see my scalp?

A visible scalp through your hair can be a sign that it's thinning (but not always). The factors that contribute to thinning hair (and thus a visible scalp) include stress, diet, vitamin deficiency and ageing.

What vitamin deficiency test for hair fall?

Most vitamin and mineral deficiencies can be picked up with a blood test, like: a finger-prick blood test — using a lancet, you can prick your finger and collect a small blood sample. a venous blood test — if you don't want to collect your sample, we can arrange a trained nurse to do this for you at a clinic.

What deficiency causes hair fall?

Only riboflavin, biotin, folate, and vitamin B12 deficiencies have been associated with hair loss. Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) is a component of two important coenzymes: flavin mononucleotide (FMN) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) [22].

What are signs of low vitamin D?

What are the symptoms of vitamin D deficiency?
  • Muscle pain.
  • Bone pain.
  • Increased sensitivity to pain.
  • A tingly, “pins-and-needles” sensation in the hands or feet.
  • Muscle weakness in body parts near the trunk of the body, such as the upper arms or thighs.
  • Waddling while walking, due to muscle weakness in the hips or legs.

How long does vitamin D deficiency take to correct hair loss?

With vitamin d, new hair follicles are able to form, meaning you do not need a hair transplant. You can begin to restore hair growth immediately, with a full recovery time usually taking between 6 and 8 months for those with long hair.

What part of the body itches with thyroid problems?

An itchy thyroid rash can occur on the neck, chest, back, face, and buttocks.

What is the one thing you should be eating for your thyroid every morning?

1. Traditional Eggs or Egg Muffin Cups. Eggs are a great source of not only iodine but also selenium, another crucial nutrient for thyroid health. Pastured eggs contain more nutrients than conventional eggs.

How to reverse thyroid hair loss?

Here are a few ways to reverse hair loss caused by thyroid conditions:
  1. Treating the underlying cause: ...
  2. Monitor iron and nutrient status: ...
  3. Regulate your stress: ...
  4. Eat a balanced diet: ...
  5. Avoid hair treatments or abuse: ...
  6. Take only those hair supplements that are prescribed by the doctor: ...
  7. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: