Copper Deficiency: A New Reason for Androgenetic Alopecia?

A 36-year-old man with androgenetic alopecia suspects copper and zinc deficiencies may be accelerating hair loss and is supplementing copper to address this. He is also monitoring blood sugar levels due to previous prediabetes concerns and plans to test for insulin resistance.

Micronutrient testing and deficiencies related to hair loss, particularly androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Discussion includes the impact of iron, selenium, zinc, copper, folate, B12, vitamin E, vitamin D, amino acids, and fatty acids, alongside treatments like dutasteride or finasteride.

Oral copper supplementation significantly improved hair regrowth for someone who experienced severe hair loss after stopping minoxidil, suggesting copper deficiency might hinder minoxidil's effectiveness. The user now only takes copper and occasionally uses microneedling, recommending others to try copper if minoxidil alone isn't effective.

The user is experiencing hair loss and is using finasteride while addressing low ferritin and copper levels. They are concerned about continued hair shedding and are advised to correct vitamin deficiencies and wait for finasteride results after 12 months.

Checking vitamin and hormone levels is important for addressing hair loss, as deficiencies in vitamin D, zinc, and iron can affect hair growth. Treatments like finasteride, minoxidil, and vitamin supplements are used, but addressing deficiencies is crucial for effectiveness.

Taking zinc and copper may offset copper depletion and potentially aid hair health when used with finasteride. The user is considering whether to use these supplements alongside finasteride or wait until switching to dutasteride.