Dr. Antonio Alvi Armani

Vitamin A and hair loss

While it is commonly accepted that nutritional deficiencies, such as that of iron or some vitamins, can lead to hair loss, the effects of Vitamin A on your hair growth are a little more complicated.

On one hand, a diet including an adequate amount of Vitamin A, which can be found in foods such as whole eggs, milk and liver, is necessary to avoid a condition called hyperkeratosis.  It occurs in the follicles and in the sebaceous glands (the small glands in your skin that secrete oil into your hair follicles) and it can complicate hair growth.

On the other hand, an excess of Vitamin A in your diet can have similar consequences.  Too much of this vitamin can prevent proper keratinisation (the growth of a fibrous protein found in your hair and nails), resulting in hair loss or “toxic alopecia”. 

It is very important to always take your diet into consideration when hair loss is concerned.  Different nutrients, whether in inadequate or excessive doses, may not necessarily affect you in the way you might expect.  Proper research is essential for your nutritional and overall health.