Weight-loss and Hair Health

Weight loss is a common goal for many individuals, as maintaining a healthy weight is essential for overall health and well-being. However, it is little known that weight loss can negatively impact the health of your hair. 

There are several factors that can contribute to hair loss or thinning during weight loss. These factors include nutritional deficiencies, hormonal changes, stress, and genetics.

Nutritional Deficiencies

When you lose weight, your body may not be getting all the nutrients it needs. This can result in nutritional deficiencies that can impact the health of your hair. For example, if you are not consuming enough protein, your hair may become brittle and break easily. Protein is essential for hair growth and maintenance, and a lack of it can lead to hair loss.

Iron is another nutrient that is important for hair health. Iron deficiency can lead to hair thinning and hair loss, as it plays a key role in the production of haemoglobin, which carries oxygen to the hair follicles. If the hair follicles are not getting enough oxygen, they may become weak and fall out.

Vitamin D is another nutrient that is important for hair health. It helps to regulate the growth and maintenance of hair follicles. A deficiency in vitamin D can lead to hair loss or thinning.

Hormonal Changes

Weight loss can also cause hormonal changes in the body. These changes can have an impact on the health of your hair. For example, when you lose weight, your body produces less oestrogen. Oestrogen is important for hair health, as it helps to keep the hair in the growth phase for longer periods of time. When oestrogen levels drop, hair may start to fall out.

Testosterone is another hormone that can impact hair health. High levels of testosterone can cause hair loss, as it can shrink the hair follicles. When the hair follicles are too small, they may not be able to produce hair.

Stress

Weight loss can also be stressful on the body. Stress can have a negative impact on the health of your hair. When you are stressed, your body releases cortisol. High levels of cortisol can lead to hair loss, as it causes the hair follicles to enter a resting phase. When the hair follicles are in a resting phase, they are not producing hair.

Genetics

Finally, genetics can also play a role in the impact of weight loss on hair health. Some people may be more genetically predisposed to hair loss or thinning. If you have a family history of hair loss, you may be more likely to experience hair loss or thinning during weight loss.

How to Maintain Hair Health During Weight Loss

Fortunately, there are several things you can do to maintain the health of your hair during weight loss. These include:

1. Eating a balanced diet: Make sure you are consuming enough protein, iron, and vitamin D. You may want to consider taking a multivitamin to ensure you are getting all the nutrients you need.
2. Avoiding crash diets: Rapid weight loss can be stressful on the body and can lead to nutritional deficiencies. Instead, aim for a slow and steady weight loss of 1-2 pounds per week.
3. Managing stress: Find ways to manage stress, such as meditation or yoga. This can help to reduce cortisol levels and minimise the impact of stress on your hair.
4. Using hair products: Use hair products that are designed to promote hair growth and prevent hair loss. Look for products that contain ingredients such as biotin, keratin, and caffeine. We recommend a specialised hair vitamin such as this one.