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Supplements to avoid when you have hair loss

Yoram Harth, MD
By Yoram Harth, MD | Jun 22, 2025

Hair loss can be an emotionally challenging experience, whether it's gradual thinning, patchy shedding, or sudden increased hair fall. While many people turn to supplements to support hair regrowth, not all supplements are beneficial, and some may even make the problem worse.

In this post, we'll explore supplements and nutrients that may aggravate hair loss, and how choosing a customized solution like MDhair's supplements can make a real difference in your journey to healthier hair.

Supplements That May Worsen Hair Loss

High-Dose Vitamin A

While vitamin A plays a role in healthy skin and hair, excessive intake—usually from megadose supplements or certain multivitamins—can trigger telogen effluvium, a condition that causes hair follicles to enter the resting (shedding) phase too early. Stick to recommended daily allowances unless otherwise advised by a professional.

High-dose standalone selenium supplements

Selenium is an essential trace element, but too much of it can lead to hair loss. Studies show that high selenium levels may disrupt the hair cycle and cause breakage or shedding. Be cautious with standalone selenium supplements or multivitamins with high doses.

High-dose standalone zinc supplements

Zinc is often included in hair loss treatments, but high doses can interfere with copper absorption, leading to nutritional imbalances and even worsening of hair thinning. The right dose is crucial.

High-dose standalone biotin supplements

Biotin is one of the most popular ingredients in hair supplements—but too much can interfere with lab tests (especially thyroid tests) and give false results that delay proper diagnosis of underlying causes of hair loss. It may also not be effective unless you're actually deficient, which is rare.

High-Iron Supplements (If Not Deficient)

Iron deficiency is a known cause of hair loss, but excess iron can be harmful, especially for individuals who are not anemic. It may increase oxidative stress and cause more shedding. Always test before taking iron-containing supplements.

Why Personalized Hair Growth Supplementation Matters

Everyone's hair loss story is unique. It could be triggered by genetics, hormones, stress, poor nutrition, or underlying health issues. That's why generic supplements often fall short, and in some cases, may even delay proper treatment.

The MDhair Advantage: Customized Hair Growth Supplements

At MDhair, we believe in science-backed, dermatologist-formulated solutions, not one-size-fits-all products. Here's how our personalized hair supplements stand out:

Clinically Studied Ingredients

Each formula is designed based on your hair loss type and scalp condition, and includes the right amount of vitamins, minerals, adaptogens, and plant-based DHT blockers like saw palmetto and ashwagandha.

Customized for You

After you take a short hair assessment, our AI engine and dermatology team analyze your responses to match you with the ideal supplement blend, without unnecessary or harmful ingredients.

Targeted for Root Causes

Whether your hair loss is hormonal, nutritional, or stress-related, we'll provide a formula that addresses the root issue and avoids triggers like excess selenium or vitamin A.

Clean & Vegan-Friendly

Our supplements are cruelty-free and made without synthetic fillers, dairy, or gluten—great for those with sensitive skin or dietary restrictions.

MDhair Customized Supplements

MDhair Restore Supplements

The MDhair Restore Supplements are designed specifically for individuals in the early stages of hair thinning or experiencing mild to moderate hair loss. This formula supports the scalp and follicles with a balanced blend of essential micronutrients, antioxidants, and adaptogenic herbs that promote resilience against environmental and hormonal stressors. Restore is ideal for people looking to rebalance their scalp health, reduce hair shedding, and enhance the overall quality of their hair before damage progresses.

MDhair Regrowth Supplements

For those with moderate to advanced hair loss, the MDhair Regrowth Supplements offer a more intensive approach. These capsules combine clinically researched botanicals, plant-based DHT blockers, and high-potency vitamins and minerals to reactivate dormant follicles and stimulate new hair growth. This advanced formula is especially beneficial for people experiencing pattern hair loss or postpartum hair shedding, helping to restore density, strength, and scalp vitality.

Conclusion

When you're dealing with hair loss, more isn't always better, and taking the wrong supplements can do more harm than good. Instead of guessing, trust a personalized approach that's rooted in clinical science and tailored to your needs.

Take MDhair's free hair quiz today to discover the customized supplement plan that can help you regrow healthier, fuller hair—safely and naturally.

Here are 5 relevant PubMed studies with clickable links for your hair loss supplements post:

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MDhair Regrowth Supplements
MDhair Restore Supplements

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References

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