Biotin gets a lot of attention in terms of its importance for healthy hair and nail growth, but it’s not the only vitamin or mineral that’s important for good hair growth. Several vitamins and nutrients are essential to maintain a healthy head of hair, but the role of zinc in hair growth and loss is often overlooked by the general public.
Is Zinc Good for Your Hair?
Despite being a vital nutrient, the role that zinc plays in hair growth tends to be ignored. Zinc is essential for wound healing, reproduction, a healthy immune system, the development of protein and genetic material, and other crucial functions. In fact, zinc has been found in every cell of your body.
Additionally, zinc is also an essential nutrient for healthy hair and good hair growth. A National Institute of Health (NIH) study found that “zinc is a potent inhibitor of hair follicle regression and it accelerates hair follicle recovery” in addition to other insights into the role of zinc in hair maintenance and growth. So, zinc is more than good for your hair. It’s essential for your hair.
Does Zinc Thicken Hair?
Zinc supports keratin development. Since hair strands are made of keratin, zinc is very important for hair growth. It can also help counter hair follicle shrinkage. In that regard, it can aid hair thickness. But more studies need to be done to discover how much zinc can affect or improve hair thickness. So (for now) it’s a possible yes as to whether zinc can thicken hair overall.
Does Zinc Help Regrow Hair?
A NIH study reported hair regrowth in alopecia areata patients after taking zinc. However, those patients had a low serum zinc level at the start of the survey.
So, it’s unclear as to whether zinc will help hair regrowth in those without a zinc deficiency. Further testing needs to be done to clarify that point and an increase in the size of study for more reliable results. Ultimately, zinc can aid hair regrowth – in some cases – but more research is necessary.
Can Too Much Zinc Cause Hair Loss?
Yes, even though zinc is essential for good hair growth, too much of it can also contribute to hair loss. Among other things, zinc helps to regulate hormones… so excessive levels of zinc can trigger high levels of the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) – which shrinks hair follicles.
Additionally, zinc affects the amount of copper in the body. Too much zinc can lead to a copper depletion which can also contribute to hair loss.
Is Hair Loss from a Zinc Deficiency Reversible?
Yes, if a zinc deficiency is the reason for hair loss, correcting that deficiency will lead to a restoration of normal hair growth. Hair loss due to a zinc deficiency is uncommon but can happen – especially to those who are vegan, vegetarian, pregnant, nursing, abusing alcohol consumption, or are suffering from gastrointestinal conditions or sickle cell disease.
If you are concerned about a zinc deficiency caused by any of these potential triggers, talk to your doctor about whether taking a zinc supplement is right for you.
Losing Your Hair? Talk to the Hair Restoration Experts at RHRLI
You don’t have to live with hair loss. At RHRLI, we offer non-invasive treatments and state-of-the-art surgical techniques – including the ARTAS Robotic Hair Restoration System. To get started on your journey to a full head of hair, contact us today to set up a free consultation.