Does Iron Deficiency Cause Hair Loss?

We’re not all “Popeye,” eating cans of spinach each day to stay strong.

But making sure we have a healthy amount of iron in our diet is important. The mineral can help prevent anemia and boost resistance to infection.

And when it comes to our hair, iron plays a vital role.

“Iron is really important for hair growth and hair health,” says dermatologist Melissa Piliang, MD. “When we see patients who are experiencing hair loss, we often perform labs to screen for iron deficiency. It’s not uncommon for us to find iron to be low in women.”

Dr. Piliang shares who might be at risk for low iron and how to treat hair loss.

Can an iron deficiency cause hair loss?

Yes. Iron helps your body produce hemoglobin, a protein in your red blood cells. It carries oxygen to your body’s cells, helping them grow and repair. This includes your body’s cells that help with hair growth.

“Many women are low in iron,” notes Dr. Piliang. “Hair shedding may be the first sign that patients notice.”

Who’s at risk for iron-related hair loss?

Certain individuals are more likely to experience iron-related hair loss.

Women

Iron is especially vital for women of child-bearing age who have monthly periods and who may or may not get a lot of iron in their diet.

“Many women avoid red meat, which is our best source of iron,” says Dr. Piliang. “If you’re a meat eater, the best way to address this problem is to get two 4-ounce portions of red meat per week. This small amount should be enough to maintain healthy levels of iron for most women.”

People who follow a vegetarian/vegan diet

Those who are vegetarian or vegan may want to focus on including foods that are good sources of iron.

“If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, you can eat beans, spinach and other dark leafy green vegetables as sources of iron,” suggests Dr. Piliang. “However, plant-derived iron is not absorbed as completely.”

Dr. Piliang recommends making sure your diet includes foods high in vitamin C, as they can help your body absorb iron completely.

People who exercise heavily

Heavy exercise like running or high-impact aerobic exercise can cause small tears in your joints or the lining of your stomach.

“These small tears leak a little blood,” says Dr. Piliang. “Over time and with regular exercise, this can lead to loss of iron and eventually anemia.”

Will hair loss from iron deficiency grow back?

Yes. Most hair loss due to an iron deficiency can be reversed.

If you’ve been experiencing hair loss and think it may be due to an iron deficiency, Dr. Piliang recommends talking to your doctor. A blood test can determine if you have low levels of iron.

In addition to taking supplements and changing your diet, you may want to use a product like minoxidil that helps hair grow back.

“Eating a healthy diet with adequate iron-rich foods or taking an iron supplement can correct the deficiency and lead to hair regrowth,” explains Dr. Piliang.

How to add more iron to your diet

Get more iron in your diet by adding supplements or changing your eating habits.

Supplements

Iron supplements commonly cause constipation, so slow-release supplements are preferred. It’s important to talk to your doctor first, before taking iron supplements, though.

“Taking iron with vitamin C, as is found in citrus fruits (like lemons and limes) or some combination of supplements, increases the stomach’s absorption of iron,” says Dr. Piliang.

Diet changes

Eating a well-balanced diet can help ensure you get the recommended amount of iron each day. Reach for iron-rich foods like spinach, broccoli, peas, tofu and iron-rich meats like beef and lamb.

You also want to incorporate foods that are high in vitamin C. Think oranges, strawberries and tomatoes.

“Vitamin C helps your body absorb the iron you consume in food or supplements,” says Dr. Piliang. “To get the most bang for your buck, eat vitamin C-rich foods with your iron-rich foods or supplement.”

Overall, if you notice more hair in your shower drain, it may be time to talk to your doctor. If you have an iron deficiency, your doctor will discuss the best path forward and offer ways to help stop your hair loss.

“Many things can cause hair loss,” notes Dr. Piliang. “If you’re experiencing increased hair shedding, see your dermatologist so they can help determine the best treatment plan for you.”