Hair loss is not always just a scalp problem. Sometimes it is a sign of something happening inside the body, like low iron, low vitamin levels or a thyroid imbalance.
That is why a dermatologist may suggest a few simple blood tests. In this post, Dr. Madan Kumar B J, Hair Transplant Surgeon and Dermatologist at VTIARA Hair & Skin Clinic, Bangalore, explains the common lab investigations in hair loss. Most of these apply to both men and women.
5 Common Lab Tests in Hair Loss (Men and Women)
| # | Test | What it checks |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | CBC (Complete Blood Count) | Haemoglobin level and signs of anaemia |
| 2 | Iron studies: serum ferritin, serum iron, TIBC | Iron content and iron storage in the body |
| 3 | Serum Vitamin D | Vitamin D level |
| 4 | Zinc level | Zinc in the body |
| 5 | TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) | Thyroid function |
1. CBC (Complete Blood Count)
A CBC is usually the first test. It shows your haemoglobin level and whether you have anaemia. Dr. Madan calls haemoglobin an important value. If anaemia is found, correcting it is part of managing hair loss.
2. Iron Studies: Serum Ferritin, Serum Iron and TIBC
These tests look at how much iron is in your blood and how much is stored in your body. Low iron storage is linked with hair loss, and correcting it is part of the treatment plan.
3. Serum Vitamin D
Dr. Madan describes vitamin D as very important. It plays a role in hair root metabolism and in calcium absorption. A low level can be associated with hair loss.
4. Zinc Level
Zinc is another mineral checked in hair loss. Dr. Madan also mentions diarrhoea and dermatitis as associated signs.
5. TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)
TSH is a sensitive indicator of how your thyroid is working. Thyroid problems are a known cause of hair loss, so this is an important investigation.
Hormone Tests in Women
In women, hair loss can be hormone related. Along with the five tests above, a dermatologist may consider these blood tests:
- Free testosterone
- LH (luteinizing hormone)
- FSH (follicle stimulating hormone)
- DHEAS
- Serum prolactin
These help when there are menstrual cycle variations, unusual hair growth, or female pattern hair loss. For more on female and male pattern hair loss, see our earlier videos.
Don't self-test, let your dermatologist decide: Not everyone with hair loss needs every test. Your dermatologist or clinician decides which tests you need after examining you. Supporting investigations are done only when needed. Special investigations may be advised for other medical conditions. The basis is always a dermatologist's or physician's recommendation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which blood tests are done for hair loss?
The common ones are CBC, iron studies (serum ferritin, serum iron, TIBC), serum vitamin D, zinc level and TSH.
Are the tests the same for men and women?
The five common tests apply to both. Women may also be advised hormone tests: free testosterone, LH, FSH, DHEAS and serum prolactin.
Can low vitamin D cause hair loss?
Vitamin D plays a role in hair root metabolism, and a low level can be associated with hair loss. Your dermatologist can check it with a simple blood test.
Should I get all these tests done on my own?
No. Your dermatologist decides which tests you need after a clinical examination.
Why is thyroid testing important in hair loss?
TSH is a sensitive indicator of thyroid function, and thyroid problems can cause hair loss.
Consult a Dermatologist in Bangalore
Worried about hair loss? Get the right tests at the right time, guided by a specialist.
Dr. Madan Kumar B J, Hair Transplant Surgeon | Dermatologist, VTIARA Hair & Skin Clinic, Bangalore. Call: 63613 47722
Watch the full video on our Instagram, and comment your questions about hair loss.
This article is for general health education and is not a substitute for medical advice.