Vitamin D Levels in Alopecia Areata and Androgenetic Alopecia: New evidence of a potential role

New evidence of a potential role of Vitamin D Signalling in Alopecia Areata and Androgenetic Alopecia

The precise role of vitamin D in hair loss is still controversial. It’s clear that vitamin D has a role in hair growth since individuals born with abnormalities in the vitamin D receptor are completely bald. However, the role of vitamin D in adults with various types of hair loss is not completely clear.

Researchers from Egypt set out to examine the role of vitamin D in hair loss by comparing the levels of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) in blood and scalp biopsy samples of 60 patients - 20 patients with AA, 20 patients with AGA, and 20 healthy controls.  

What were the results?

Interestingly, both serum and hair biopsy levels of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) were lower in individuals with alopecia areata and genetic hair loss than individuals who did not have the condition.

Conclusion

This is an interesting study that adds to the growing body of knowledge suggesting that vitamin D might have an important role in the steps that ultimately lead to alopecia areata (AA) and genetic hair loss (AGA). The next big question is to understand if (and how much) vitamin supplementation – either topically or by pill form – can benefit individuals with these conditions

REFERENCES

 

Fawzi, M. M. T., Mahmoud, S. B., Ahmed, S. F. and Shaker, O. G. (2016), Assessment of vitamin D receptors in alopecia areata and androgenetic alopecia. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. doi: 10.1111/jocd.12224