Zinc is a trace element that is essential for biochemical processes in the body. These processes depend on Zinc for cell reproduction, protein synthesis, maintenance of hormone levels and much more.
Zinc is found naturally in many foods such as seafood, red meat & poultry, beans, nuts, dairy products and other fortified foods. Since our bodies don't hold on to Zinc we need to keep a steady supply going to keep the essential biochemical processes going. Enough can be consumed in your daily diet, and if this is the case you can easily over supplement with Zinc which can interrupt hair growth. This is why you need to check if you need Zinc as a supplement before purchasing one.
Zinc Deficiency
Hair loss is a common sign of Zinc deficiency, however you need to have other signs present to know that Zinc is an issue. Our DNA test can also determine if Zinc is required for your hair growth.
Symptoms of Zinc Deficiency:
Loss of appetite
Reduced immune function
Hair loss
Skin dryness
Gasto-intestinal issues
Signs of excessive Zinc intake (Zinc toxicity):
Nausea & vomiting
Loss of appetite
Headaches
Stomach cramps
Zinc for hair loss
There has been only limited studies made on the role of Zinc in hair loss. However some research has been done which has found that Zinc plays a role in slowing some forms of hair loss. Studies are limited but anecdotal case studies in our clinic has shown great improvement in patients.
Thoughts on how Zinc plays a role in hair loss:
Blocks the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
Hair follicle activation
Testosterone balance
Immune control helping alopecia areata
Encourages wound repair and influx of growth factors after derma rolling
Anti-oxidant activity
Protein synthesis activity
Amount of Zinc required to help combat hair loss:
The recommended daily allowance is around 10mg a day. For hair loss we recommend to supplement with 15mg daily for 3 months while improving your diet intake of Zinc. Many of our patients continue on taking Zinc on a daily basis. Zinc is known to deplete the intake of Copper if taken in high levels (30mg - 60mg) on a daily basis, which is why we recommend to add Copper to your supplement protocols.
Zinc alone will not help you combat hair loss, use it in combination with your personalised hair serum. Our advise is to only use Zinc after your results show the requirements from our DNA test. Remember there is no cure for hair loss. Our aim is to slow down the progression and improve the density of your hair. Together we improve your hair confidence.