Get blood work to check iron and thyroid levels

Ask your doctor to test ferritin (stored iron), TSH (thyroid function), vitamin D, and a complete blood count. These are the most common lab values associated with diffuse hair shedding. Bring results to a dermatologist if abnormalities are found.

Why It Works

Low ferritin, thyroid dysfunction, and vitamin D deficiency are treatable causes of telogen effluvium that mimic or worsen the condition. Identifying and correcting these can significantly speed recovery or stop shedding that would otherwise continue.

Tips

• Ferritin below 30 ng/mL is associated with hair loss even if hemoglobin is normal
• Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause shedding
• Request a copy of your results — "normal range" may not be optimal for hair health