What nutrient deficiency could be causing excessive hair loss in a 5-year-old child?

My child is only 5 years old, but for the past two weeks, she's been experiencing significant hair loss. I've changed her shampoo, but it hasn't improved. What should I do now? Could she be lacking some nutrients, doctor?

(Ms. Hoang Thu Thuy, residing in Dinh Quan district)

The doctor replied:

Hello!

Hair loss in 5-year-old children can be caused by various factors, including both physiological and pathological ones. Some common causes include:

- Micronutrient deficiencies: Young children need sufficient iron, zinc, vitamin D, B vitamins (especially biotin), and protein for healthy hair growth. A diet lacking these nutrients can cause hair loss.

- Endocrine disorders or medical conditions: Certain diseases such as rickets due to vitamin D deficiency, thyroid disease, scalp dermatitis, scalp fungus, etc., can cause excessive hair loss. If your child's hair is falling out in patches, is scaly, itchy, or accompanied by other unusual signs, you should take your child to the doctor for examination.

- External factors: You've changed shampoos, but your child's hair is still falling out. This could be because the shampoo isn't suitable and is irritating the scalp. Additionally, tying hair too tightly, brushing too vigorously, or your child having a habit of pulling their hair can also cause hair loss.

To improve your child's hair loss, you can supplement their diet with foods rich in iron (red meat, fish, eggs), zinc (seafood, nuts), vitamin D (early morning sun exposure, milk), and B vitamins. Additionally, use a gentle shampoo specifically designed for children, avoid washing their hair too frequently (2-3 times per week), and dry their hair thoroughly afterward. Do not leave the scalp damp for extended periods.

If the hair loss does not improve after 2-4 weeks or if there are any unusual signs (patchy hair loss, scalp scaling, excessive itching, etc.), you should take your child to a dermatologist for examination.

I hope your child's hair condition improves soon!

Doctor Pham Thi Huong,

Dermatology Clinic, Long Khánh Regional General Hospital

Source: https://baodongnai.com.vn/alo--bac-si-oi/202503/be-5-tuoi-bi-rung-toc-nhieu-la-thieu-chat-gi-920000e/