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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Update on hair shedding. I had iron panel done. My iron is low so I got prescribed Slow Fe. I’ve taken it 5 days. How long until I see shedd

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
NC

Shedding slow down. I had this issue 30 years ago and o don’t remember. I’m not anemic. Just low enough I guess it is starving my hair. Anyone else have this issue?

September 14
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MyLupusTeam

Great news that you found a potential cause! Low iron is definitely linked to hair shedding in lupus — chronic inflammation can make it harder for the body to absorb iron properly, which can affect hair growth.

Unfortunately, hair has its own timeline and patience is required here. It typically takes a few months to notice a Show Full Answer

Great news that you found a potential cause! Low iron is definitely linked to hair shedding in lupus — chronic inflammation can make it harder for the body to absorb iron properly, which can affect hair growth.

Unfortunately, hair has its own timeline and patience is required here. It typically takes a few months to notice a slowdown in shedding once iron levels start to improve. Hair growth cycles are slow, so even when the root cause is being treated, the hair itself takes time to catch up. A MyLupusTeam member shared a similar experience, noting that folic acid helped reduce their shedding, though results varied from person to person.

A few things worth keeping in mind:

- Keep taking the Slow Fe consistently as prescribed
- Follow up with your doctor to recheck iron levels after a few weeks
- Be gentle with your hair in the meantime — avoid heat, tight styles, and harsh products
- Before adding any supplements like biotin or folic acid, check with your rheumatologist first, as some can interact with lupus medications

Hang in there — you're already on the right track! 💪

September 14
A MyLupusTeam Member

When I was placed on Methotrexate my hair was falling out like crazy. Not on it any longer just plaquinel but I did start taking 10,000 Biotin and wow, my hair stopped shedding and is so thick. After about a year I only take 5,000 Biotin now. It really helps . You do have to stop taking it for about 2 weeks prior to lab work as it can sque certain tests

September 15
A MyLupusTeam Member

I have been High -Lighting my hair for about 40 years now.And it Thickens the Hair shaft and makes my hair appear to be Thicker than it really is.Which is a Blessing
To have thicker hair❤️😊

October 8
A MyLupusTeam Member

My hair sheds constantly. I've tried hair loss shampoos, but these aren't meant for autoimmune disease. It's the disease and the meds (and maybe low vitamins) that cause shedding. Shampoos may seem to work, but they can have funky side effects, like when they changed my hair color.

September 16
A MyLupusTeam Member

My hair is constantly falling out. Sometimes it's worse than others. This picture of my hair fall out is from 2 showers. I know I'm in a flare when this happens. Also get blisters around my tongue with mouth ulcers. I could cry when this happens.

September 15 (edited)

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