Evidence supporting the use of: Selenium
For the health condition: Hair (loss or thinning)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Selenium is a trace mineral that plays a crucial role in several bodily processes, including antioxidant defense systems and thyroid function. The scientific basis for selenium's involvement in hair health primarily stems from its role in the synthesis and metabolism of thyroid hormones, which are essential for the regulation of hair follicle function. Selenium deficiency can contribute to hypothyroidism, a condition known to cause hair thinning and loss. Some studies in both humans and animals have demonstrated that inadequate selenium levels may result in hair loss, while correction of the deficiency can reverse these effects. However, such cases are relatively rare in populations with adequate dietary intake.

There is limited direct evidence from randomized controlled trials supporting selenium supplementation for hair loss in individuals without diagnosed deficiency. Moreover, excessive selenium intake (selenosis) can itself cause hair loss, among other toxic effects. Thus, while there is a plausible biological mechanism linking selenium status to hair health, supplementation is only considered beneficial in cases of proven deficiency, such as in certain malabsorption syndromes or severe dietary inadequacies. For the general population, routine selenium supplementation for hair loss or thinning is not broadly supported by strong scientific evidence, and the overall quality and quantity of research on this specific use is limited.

In summary, selenium's use in hair loss is scientifically grounded mainly in the context of deficiency states, and not as a universal remedy. The evidence supporting its general use for hair thinning or loss in otherwise healthy individuals is weak.

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