Zinc for hair regrowth? Doctor says evidence is insufficient

The effectiveness of zinc supplements for hair regrowth remains a topic of discussion, particularly on social media platforms like Threads. However, a Taiwanese urologist, Dr. Yang Kai-Wu, advises caution, emphasizing that zinc supplementation should only be considered for those with a diagnosed zinc deficiency.

Dr. Yang clarified that while zinc can aid in cases of telogen effluvium (a type of hair shedding) caused by a lack of zinc, there is insufficient evidence to prove it can restore hair growth for conditions such as male pattern baldness or alopecia areata. A 2021 study involving 131 individuals with hair loss, including male pattern baldness, found no significant improvement in hair density or thickness after supplementing deficient elements like zinc and iron. The study also noted that only about 3.8% of participants were actually zinc deficient.

“

If it is male pattern baldness or alopecia areata, there is currently not enough evidence to prove that 'eating zinc can make hair grow back'.

Further complicating the matter, a 2023 meta-analysis published in JAMA presented conflicting results regarding zinc's impact on alopecia areata. While one cross-over study indicated effectiveness, another found no benefit. Dr. Yang also warned that consuming more zinc is not necessarily better. Prolonged excessive intake can cause gastrointestinal issues like nausea and diarrhea, alter taste perception, and critically, lead to copper deficiency. This deficiency can result in anemia and may even exacerbate hair loss.

The Taiwan Ministry of Health and Welfare's National Health Administration recommends a daily zinc intake of 15 milligrams for men and 12 milligrams for women. Zinc plays a role in various bodily functions, including insulin production, enzyme activity, energy metabolism, protein synthesis, skin health, taste, appetite, growth, and reproductive functions. Foods rich in zinc include oysters, crabs, lamb, beef, mussels, pork liver, sesame seeds, chia seeds, pine nuts, cashews, walnuts, almonds, and more.

“

Long-term excessive intake may cause nausea, diarrhea, taste abnormalities, and more importantly, may cause copper deficiency, which can lead to anemia and even exacerbate hair loss.