TLDR Iron is crucial for healthy skin, hair, and nails.
The 2001 review examined iron's dual role as a cosmetic constituent and an essential nutrient for skin, hair, and nails. It found that iron was crucial for oxygen transport and cellular functions, with deficiencies leading to hair loss, nail deformities, and impaired wound healing. While iron absorption from cosmetics was minimal, dietary iron was essential, with different absorption rates for men and women. Iron levels affected hair color and growth, with deficiencies causing hair loss and texture changes, while excess iron could be harmful, as in haematochromatosis. The review called for more research into iron's physiological roles and its impact on skin and hair health, noting that iron toxicity in skin was rare and the effects of cosmetic iron were unclear.
83 citations
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April 1992 in “Clinical Endocrinology” Having enough iron improves the effectiveness of a specific hair loss treatment in women.
124 citations
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August 1990 in “British Journal of Dermatology” Diffuse alopecia in women may be related to androgens and iron deficiency, and basic hormone and nutrient screening is useful.
18 citations
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April 1989 in “Archives of Dermatology” Iron deficiency can cause hair color changes, which can be reversed with iron supplements.
15 citations
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January 1971 in “British Journal of Dermatology” Hair can indicate early signs of metabolic disorders, with issues like protein deficiency stopping hair growth.
3 citations
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January 2019 in “Elsevier eBooks” Pharmacists should interpret lab data and perform physical exams to improve patient care.
January 2020 in “Asian journal of applied science and technology” Good nutrition is crucial for health and preventing disease, and supplements can help prevent nutrient deficiencies.
6 citations
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September 2019 in “Archives of Dermatological Research” Found 32 genes linked to male baldness, affecting hair growth and stress-related pathways.
January 2011 in “Springer eBooks” Eating a balanced diet with the right vitamins and minerals is important for healthy hair, but too many supplements can be harmful.
96 citations
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September 2017 in “Analytica Chimica Acta” Hair elemental analysis could be useful for health and exposure assessment but requires more standardization and research.
