Vitamin D plays a vital role in the hair growth cycle. Its deficiency is linked to diffuse hair loss and even alopecia areata.
How Vitamin D Affects Hair:
- Follicle activation: Vitamin D essential for stimulating dormant follicles to enter growth phase (Anagen).
- New hair formation: Helps keratin cell differentiation — the main hair substance.
- Immune regulation: Deficiency linked to alopecia areata — autoimmune disease attacking follicles.
- Hair cycle regulation: Helps hair stay longer in growth phase.
Optimal Values for Hair Health:
- Ideal level: 40-60 ng/ml (not just above 30 as in general reference).
- Most hair loss patients in Jordan have levels 10-20 ng/ml.
Treatment:
- Severe deficiency (<20): Loading dose 50,000 IU weekly for 8 weeks.
- Maintenance: 1000-2000 IU daily.
- Sun exposure: 15-20 minutes daily without sunscreen.
At BEIT TARIQ Center, we test vitamin D as part of the hair loss package and choose the exactly right dose.