Hair loss is common in autumn

Hair loss is common in autumn, with losing between 50 and 100 hairs each day considered normal as part of the natural renewal of hair. However, significant hair loss (more than 100 hairs per day), persistent or accompanied by a decrease in hair density, merits a medical opinion.

Stress and health can cause temporary hair loss

Physical or psychological stress, a disease, or significant weight loss can cause telogen effluvium, a sudden, diffuse, and usually temporary hair loss that generally appears two to three months after the triggering event. Once the cause is corrected and the hair cycle is restored, the hair grows back gradually.

Nutritional deficiencies and hair health

Nutritional deficiencies can also disrupt the hair cycle and cause hair loss. The functioning of the hair follicle relies on a complex biochemistry, with matrix cells needing an adequate supply of nutrients. When something is missing, such as in the case of iron or zinc deficiency, the functioning of the follicle is disrupted and hair growth is affected.

Hormonal imbalances and hair loss

Hormonal imbalances, such as those from thyroid diseases or polycystic ovary syndrome, can also lead to hair loss. Androgenetic alopecia is characterized by a progressive loss of hair linked to a genetic predisposition and increased sensitivity of hair follicles to androgens.

Dietary supplements and their limited role

In the absence of nutritional deficiency, dietary supplements against hair loss have little interest. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recalls that the results of supplements intended to promote growth are often modest, and an excess of certain nutrients, notably selenium and vitamins A and E, can themselves contribute to hair loss.

Specific cases and medical treatments

The dermatologist mentions a particular situation where, when initiating treatment with minoxidil, a supply of sulfur-containing amino acids could potentially optimize the early stages of treatment. This medication stimulates the multiplication of the matrix cells of the hair follicle, and amino acids contribute to the synthesis of keratin. Outside of this situation, this has little interest, except in the case of confirmed nutritional deficiencies.

Iron and zinc in hair health

Despite their promises, the effectiveness of anti-hair loss dietary supplements remains currently unproven by robust clinical studies. Hair loss can be associated with a nutritional deficiency, particularly in iron, and less frequently in certain vitamins such as B9 or B12. An iron deficiency can cause diffuse hair loss, especially in patients with heavy menstrual periods.

Vitamins and dietary balance

Zinc participates in the synthesis of proteins, including keratin, which constitutes the majority of the hair fiber. A significant deficiency can therefore contribute to hair loss. Vitamins B9 and B12 participate in DNA synthesis and cellular renewal. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can occur in people with a vegetarian or vegan diet. A balanced and varied diet is one of the pillars of beautiful hair. Most of the nutrients present in dietary supplements, such as vitamins B5, B6 and B8, are already found in many foods. In the absence of deficiency, supplementation therefore generally has no proven interest against hair loss.

Postpartum hair loss and recovery

Postpartum telogen effluvium is a phenomenon related to the hormonal changes that follow childbirth. It is generally temporary, and the hair gradually regains its density over the following months. Again, in the absence of a confirmed nutritional deficiency, a course of anti-hair loss dietary supplements is generally not necessary. However, a confirmed deficiency, particularly in iron, must be addressed.