Comprehensive Hair Loss Blood Test: Ferritin, Vitamins B12 & D, Folate & Thyroid Function (TSH, T4, T3)

Biomarkers

1. Vitamin D (25-hydroxyvitamin D)

   Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that helps regulate calcium and phosphate levels in the body, supporting healthy bones, teeth, and muscle function. It also plays a role in immune system regulation. Most vitamin D is produced in the skin through sunlight exposure, with smaller amounts obtained from diet and supplements. Low levels are common, especially in the UK during autumn and winter, and may lead to symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, or bone discomfort.

2. Viatmin B12

   Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential nutrient the body cannot produce on its own and must obtain through diet or supplementation. It plays a fundamental role in the formation of red blood cells, DNA synthesis, neurological function, and the maintenance of healthy nerve tissue. It is found naturally in animal products including meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, which is why deficiency is particularly common in those following a plant-based diet. Low B12 can have a wide-ranging impact on both physical and neurological health, making regular monitoring important for those at risk.

3. Ferritin

   Measures the amount of iron safely stored in your body's cells (liver, spleen, and muscles) for future use. Because ferritin stores deplete before circulating iron levels drop, this is the single most important marker for catching iron deficiency early.

4. TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)

   Produced by the pituitary gland, TSH tells your thyroid how much hormone to produce

5. Free T3 (Triiodothyronine)

   The most active thyroid hormone, which plays a crucial role in regulating your body's energy and metabolism

6. Free T4 (Thyroxine)

   The primary hormone produced by the thyroid gland; "Free" T4 is the active form available to your tissues.

7. Folate (Vitamin B9)

   Folate is a water-soluble B vitamin measured in blood as serum folate or red cell folate. It reflects dietary intake and stores of vitamin B9, which is essential for DNA synthesis, cell division, and red blood cell formation. Low folate levels can lead to anaemia and may contribute to fatigue and other symptoms related to reduced red blood cell production.

Frequently Asked Questions

Turnaround Time

Test Preparation

• Comprehensive Hair Loss Blood Test

  Fasting: Fasting is usually not required unless you are having additional tests that specifically require it.
  
  Time of day: Thyroid and vitamin tests can be performed at any time, although morning collection may provide greater consistency.
  
  Medications: Continue taking your usual medications unless advised otherwise. If you take thyroid medication (such as levothyroxine), take it after your blood sample has been collected.
  
  Supplements: For optimal accuracy, collect your sample at least 24 hours after your last dose of any vitamin or mineral supplement.
  
  Hydration: Drink water as normal before testing, as good hydration can make blood collection easier.

Symptom Check

• Hair Loss

  Hair loss can be associated with several nutritional and hormonal deficiencies, including low ferritin, folate, vitamin D, and thyroid hormone levels. Each can contribute in different ways
  
  Low ferritin (iron stores):
  May cause increased hair shedding, reduced hair density, and slower regrowth due to reduced oxygen delivery to hair follicles.
  
  Low folate:
  Can contribute to diffuse hair thinning and poor hair quality, as folate is important for DNA synthesis and cell division in rapidly growing tissues like hair follicles.
  
  Low vitamin D:
  Often associated with increased shedding and reduced hair follicle cycling, potentially leading to thinning or delayed regrowth.
  
  Abnormal thyroid function:
  Diffuse hair shedding (not patchy)
  Dry, coarse, brittle hair texture
  Thinning of the outer third of the eyebrows (a classic clinical sign)
  Slower hair growth due to reduced follicular cycling and metabolic activity
  
  Each of these conditions can contribute to hair loss, and more than one deficiency may be present at the same time.

Result Report

• Result Report (in-use)

  The final report provides a comprehensive breakdown of your biomarkers, displaying your specific levels alongside standard UK reference ranges to show exactly where you fall on the spectrum. Beyond just the raw numbers, the report includes a brief commentary.
  

  
  View your results in a clear, easy-to-understand format with charts and reference ranges. If you repeat the same biomarkers with us, your report includes historical comparisons to help track changes, trends, and progress over time.