Iron deficiency hair loss

What it is

Low iron stores (ferritin) are linked with increased shedding, especially in women with heavy periods or plant-based diets.

Who gets it

Menstruating women, people with low-iron diets, frequent blood donors, some athletes.

Signs to look for

• Diffuse shedding
• Tiredness, pale skin, brittle nails

Common causes and triggers

• Heavy periods
• Low dietary iron
• Poor absorption (e.g. celiac disease)

How it is diagnosed

• Ferritin and complete blood count

Treatment and care options

These are the options commonly discussed. What suits you depends on your diagnosis — a dermatologist can help you choose.

• Iron supplements only if a test shows deficiency
• Iron-rich foods with vitamin C

Outlook

Shedding often improves over months once stores recover.

When to see a doctor

Before taking iron — too much iron is harmful.