The Role of Vitamin D in Hair Health
Vitamin D is also known as the “sunshine vitamin.” It is essential for many bodily functions, including hair growth. It plays a key role in the hair follicle cycle, especially the anagen phase. Research has shown that vitamin D receptors are important in the generation of new hair follicles. A study published in the journal Stem Cells Translational Medicine highlights that vitamin D may aid in the generation of new hair follicles and awaken dormant hair follicles to aid in hair regrowth.
Expanding
How Vitamin D Deficiency Causes Hair Loss
A lack of Vitamin D in the body disrupts the normal hair follicle cycle, leading to hair loss. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with alopecia areata, an autoimmune disease that causes patchy hair loss. A study published in the International Journal of Dermatology found that people with alopecia areata have significantly lower Vitamin D levels than those without the condition.
A lack of Vitamin D can cause the hair growth cycle to become unbalanced, with more hair follicles going into the resting phase instead of the anagen phase. This imbalance can result in thinning hair and increased hair loss.
How to spot vitamin D deficiency
Recognizing vitamin D deficiency is the first step to addressing the potential hair loss associated with it. Common signs of vitamin D deficiency include:
- If your energy levels are consistently low, you may be deficient in Vitamin D.
- Vitamin D is very important for bone health and a deficiency can cause bone pain and discomfort.
- Several studies have linked low vitamin D levels to mood disorders such as depression.
- If you notice an unusual amount of hair on your brushes or in your shower drain, that’s a warning sign.
A simple blood test can be done to confirm a deficiency.
How to Treat Vitamin D Deficiency
If you suspect that a vitamin D deficiency is causing your hair loss, there are some steps you can take to improve your vitamin D levels.
When you are exposed to sunlight, your body produces Vitamin D. Depending on your skin type and where you live, aim to get 15-30 minutes of sun exposure at least twice a week.
Include foods rich in Vitamin D in your diet, such as oily fish, egg yolks, fortified dairy products, and sun-exposed mushrooms.
If you have trouble getting enough vitamin D from sunlight or your diet, consider taking a vitamin D supplement. The National Institutes of Health recommends 600 to 800 IU (international units) per day for most adults.
