Have you been noticing more hair in the shower drain or on your pillow lately? It might not just be stress or aging—it could be iron deficiency. At New Look Institute in San Jose, we see this all the time. The good news? It’s something you can fix. Let’s break it down.
What Is Iron Deficiency?
Iron is a mineral your body needs to make hemoglobin. Hemoglobin helps red blood cells carry oxygen to every part of your body—including your hair follicles! Without enough iron, your hair can’t grow like it should.
Signs You Might Be Low on Iron
It’s not always easy to know if you’re iron deficient. But here are some signs to watch for:
You feel tired all the time
You’re short of breath after small tasks
Your skin looks pale
Your nails are weak or brittle
You’re losing more hair than usual
If you have more than one of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor and get a blood test.
How Iron Deficiency Causes Hair Loss
When your body doesn’t have enough iron, it focuses on keeping your vital organs working. That means it might pause hair growth. This can cause:
Excessive hair shedding (especially during brushing or washing)
Thinning hair across your scalp
Slower regrowth after hair falls out
This kind of hair loss is called telogen effluvium. It doesn’t cause bald spots, but your hair may feel thinner all over.
Who Is at Risk?
Anyone can be low on iron, but some people have a higher chance:
Women with heavy periods
Pregnant or breastfeeding women
People who follow vegetarian or vegan diets
Athletes with high physical demands
People with stomach issues (like ulcers or celiac disease)
How to Boost Your Iron Levels
The good news is that you can treat iron deficiency! Here are a few helpful tips:
Eat iron-rich foods like red meat, spinach, lentils, and fortified cereals
Pair iron with vitamin C (like oranges or bell peppers) to help your body absorb it
Avoid tea and coffee right after meals—they can block iron absorption
Take iron supplements if your doctor recommends them
Be Patient with Hair Growth
Once your iron levels go back up, your hair can start growing again. But it may take 3 to 6 months to see noticeable changes. That’s totally normal! Hair grows in cycles, so it just needs a little time.
Still Losing Hair? Let’s Talk.
Sometimes, hair loss is caused by more than one issue. That’s why getting a professional scalp and hair analysis can help you find the real cause and the right solution.
At New Look Institute, we are experts on understanding all the reasons behind hair loss—including iron deficiency. Our San Jose-based team uses advanced trichology tools to examine your scalp, assess your needs, and create a custom plan that works for you. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation—we're here to help you feel confident in your hair again.
