Vitamin D Levels & Hair Loss

Hair loss can affect anyone, including women. Some hair loss may be temporary, while other types of loss are permanent. If you are concerned about your hair loss, contact your doctor, as there are various treatments that may curb your condition. These treatments include hair replacement therapy and nutritional supplements, among others.

Identification

Hair is made up of protein called keratin. The hair follicle consists of epithelial and connective tissue. The part of the hair protruding above the scalp is the hair shaft, while the hair root is found within the follicle. Hair goes through a three-phase growing cycle. The first phase is the active growing phase -- called anagen -- that usually lasts between 2 and 6 years. The second phase -- catagen -- is the time in which hair becomes the protein keratin. The third and last phase -- telogen -- is when hair falls out, after which the hair follicle re-enters the first phase. If hair does not re-enter the anagen phase, hair loss occurs.

Hair Loss

There are many types of hair loss. Androgenetic alopecia is the most common form, and is characterized by thinning or balding. This type of hair loss may be partial or total. Hair loss may also occur from improper treatment or hair accessories, an illness or certain medications. Areata is a hair loss condition that results in patches of hair loss. It is thought to be caused from an autoimmune disease. Hair loss can even occur from malnutrition or vitamin deficiency.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin needed for calcium metabolism. It also plays a role in the immune system, insulin secretion and blood pressure regulation. Vitamin D is essential for bone health as well as muscles, helping to keep both strong. It is also used for cell differentiation, aiding cells in dividing and inhibiting mutations. Vitamin D is present in many different tissues, including the skin, and may help with skin conditions such as psoriasis, according to the World's Healthiest Foods website.

Significance

A deficiency in vitamin D has not been shown to cause alopecia, according to the "Journal of Biological Chemistry." However, vitamin D receptors play a critical role in the hair cycle. Proteins that affect the telogen to anagen transition are regulated by the vitamin D receptors. The "Investigative Journal of Dermatology" suggests that the development of adult skin and hair cycles require vitamin D receptors, and are therefore critical for hair follicle development. Alopecia can develop in the case of a vitamin D receptor deficiency.

Considerations

Signs of a vitamin D deficiency include muscle aches and weaknesses, lowered immune system, cognitive problems, stunted growth and severe asthma. Vitamin D toxicity -- or too much vitamin D -- symptoms include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, high blood pressure and kidney malfunction.