Could hard water (high iron) cause hair loss?

Question

I moved to a new house in June of 2017 and since then have experienced hair shedding, major re growth and these random white/translucent hairs that grow in. I also noticed the same type of shedding and regrowth and white hairs are also occurring to my six year old, two year old and husband. The community where I live has also come forward about unexplained hair loss. My water testing was normal - . Iron was at .308. Mg/l which is slightly elevated and ph is 8.04. What could be causing this?

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

I recommend getting a consultation with a cosmetic dermatologist with experience in hair restoration and maintenance. There are some great options for hair restoration and maintenance like prp injections which can stimulate hair growth. Hope this helps.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This needs an in-person evaluation. I suggest seeing a hair loss expert now to evaluate and go over your condition and provide you information about your best treatment options. There are great non-invasive options like prp/progesterone and/or hair transplantation. 
See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

In  my opinion, you should visit a hair loss expert to diagnose your condition before ascribing the problem to an environmental concern. History, physical examination with magnification, blood work, hair analysis and a biopsy may be necessary. Your primary care physician should also be consulted.  If they believe it may be environmental, it is not necessarily the water.  Discussions with a public health official and your local elected officials would be helpful to determine if there is an environmental concern.

Steven Schuster, MD, FACS · Answer

To the best of my knowledge and quick research I have not seen this as a cause of hair loss.  I would look at other options with a Hair Restoration Specialist in your area.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

This requires a full evaluation. It is rather unlikely that the high iron of the levels posted are contributing but again, there is insufficient information provided in this question. You require a full examination, review of blood tests and review of your full story. The same is true of your family and community experiencing hair loss.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

Hair that is on your head is not alive, while hair below the skin is alive as it is being pushed out of the body so hard water will only impact the texture of the hair that is on your head and not cause hair loss

Could hard water (high iron) cause hair loss?

Answers (6)

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