Is there a link between hair loss and low iron?

Research/Science 11/12/2022

The conversation discusses hair loss treatments, focusing on iron supplements for low ferritin levels and considering finasteride and minoxidil if thinning persists. There is debate over starting with finasteride versus dutasteride, with some users advocating for dutasteride due to its potency, while others caution about potential side effects.

A 19-year-old is using 2.5 mg oral minoxidil for hair loss and plans to add finasteride later, but is concerned about potential hair loss after starting finasteride. Others advise starting finasteride sooner to prevent further hair loss, noting that shedding is a normal part of the process.

The user is taking 2.5 mg dutasteride and 5% minoxidil but is not seeing hair regrowth, and is considering adding RU58841. They are experiencing fatigue and low MCV/MCH, possibly related to dutasteride, and are advised to be patient, consider microneedling, and check for iron deficiency.

The user experienced hair loss issues after switching from finasteride to dutasteride and back, with stress and seborrheic dermatitis affecting hair quality. They plan to continue finasteride, treat seborrheic dermatitis, and monitor nutrient levels, considering low-dose oral minoxidil if safe.

A user shared their 11-year experience with spironolactone and nearly 5 years with finasteride for hair loss, recently adding oral minoxidil and stopping birth control. Various treatments were discussed, including organic options, checking for underlying health issues, considering dutasteride, and the potential role of progesterone in hair loss.