Selenium for Nutritional Deficiency Hair Loss
ABased on 38 studies (4 meta-analyses, 2 RCTs) with 10,748 total participants. Results are mixed across studies.
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A
The Bottom Line
Research does not support selenium supplementation for hair loss — in fact, excessive selenium intake has been associated with hair loss, so supplementation without a confirmed deficiency is not recommended.
- Mixed results across 35 studies — no clear benefit for hair loss
- Both selenium deficiency and excess may contribute to hair problems
- Case reports have linked selenium supplements to hair loss and nail damage
- Only supplement if a healthcare provider has confirmed a deficiency
Key Study Findings
Observational Study
n=2582
Relationship Between Serum Vitamins and Cognitive Impairment in the Elderly: A Study Based on the …
Dose: None
vs: None
Outcome: Cognitive impairment risk
Effect: OR=0.695 (Vit D); OR=0.777 (FA)
p=0.003 (Vit D); p=0.034 (FA)
Population: Elderly participants aged 60+ from NHANES 2011-2014
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
n=7014
Trace Elements and Risk of Immune-Mediated Skin Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
Dose: None
vs: Placebo
Effect: Standardized mean differences reported for each element and disease combination (specific values not
None
prospective controlled study
n=30
Investigation of ischaemia-modified albumin and antioxidant vitamins and minerals levels in alopecia areata patients and …
Dose: None
vs: Placebo
Effect: None
None
Review
The role of trace elements for the function and health of the skin.
Dose: None
vs: Placebo
Effect: None
None
Review
Medical Marijuana and Treatment Personalization: The Role of Genetics and Epigenetics in Response to THC …
Dose: None
vs: None
Outcome: None
Effect: None
None
Population: Review of pharmacogenomics of THC and CBD
Review
Minerals and Trace Elements: Key Protectors of Skin Health and Defenders against Skin Disorders.
Dose: None
vs: Placebo
Effect: None
None
Key Statistics
38
Studies
10748
Participants
↔
Mixed
A
Grade
Referenced Papers
Brain and behavior
2026
Redox report : …
2025
8 citations
Minerals and Trace Elements: Key Protectors of Skin Health and Defenders against Skin Disorders.
Review
Current medicinal chemistry
2025
5 citations
Journal of trace …
2025
4 citations
Cutaneous and ocular …
2025
1 citations
Genes
2025
1 citations
Trace Elements and Risk of Immune-Mediated Skin Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
Meta-Analysis
Nutrition reviews
2025
Journal of cosmetic …
2024
7 citations
Micronutrients and Androgenetic Alopecia: A Systematic Review.
Systematic Review
Molecular nutrition & …
2024
7 citations
Journal of cosmetic …
2024
4 citations
The Cochrane database …
2023
47 citations
Arthritis care & …
2023
36 citations
Frontiers in pharmacology
2023
29 citations
Journal of the …
2023
20 citations
Bartter Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Case Reports and Case Series.
Systematic Review
Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)
2023
17 citations
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)
2023
14 citations
Skin research and …
2023
11 citations
Medical cannabis and …
2023
9 citations
Safety and risks of CBD oils purchased online: unveiling uncertain quality and vague health claims.
Other
Frontiers in pharmacology
2023
8 citations
Italian journal of …
2023
3 citations
Journal of equine …
2022
6 citations
Therapeutic advances in …
2022
4 citations
Cannabis and cannabinoid …
2021
171 citations
The Journal of …
2021
162 citations
Journal of clinical …
2020
42 citations
Skin appendage disorders
2020
10 citations
Medical cannabis and …
2018
158 citations
Journal of dance …
2018
15 citations
American journal of …
2017
104 citations
Changes of serum trace elements level in patients with alopecia areata: A meta-analysis.
Meta-Analysis
The Journal of …
2017
31 citations
Acta dermatovenerologica Croatica …
2016
6 citations
Prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and …
2015
40 citations
[Vitamins and nutritional supplements in older persons: How to diagnose and when to substitute?].
Review
Der Internist
2015
3 citations
Inflammatory bowel diseases
2012
224 citations
Medycyna wieku rozwojowego
2011
Food and nutrition …
2008
83 citations
The New England …
2006
47 citations
Cardiovascular research
2006
42 citations
Acta dermato-venereologica
1986
53 citations
Dosage & Usage
mg = milligrams · mcg = micrograms (1,000× smaller) · IU = International Units
Commonly Used Dosages
- general:
- 55 mcg/day
Upper limit: 400 mcg/day
Dosages Studied in Research
| Dosage | Duration | Effect | N |
|---|---|---|---|
| None | -- | Positive | 2582 |
| None | -- | Mixed | 7014 |
| None | -- | Neutral | 30 |
| None | -- | Mixed | -- |
| None | -- | Mixed | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| NaSe 5.6ppm, Met 4.7ppm, DPDS 14.2ppm, NanoSe 2.7ppm | 4 weeks | Positive | 40 |
| not applicable | -- | Mixed | 180 |
Best taken: With meals for better absorption
Safety & Side Effects
Reported Side Effects
- ⚠ Hair loss at excessive doses (selenosis)
- ⚠ Brittle nails
- ⚠ Garlic-like breath odor at high doses
- ⚠ Nausea and diarrhea
Known Interactions
- ● Statins (selenium may reduce statin effectiveness)
- ● Chemotherapy drugs (antioxidant effects may theoretically interfere)
- ● Niacin (may decrease HDL-raising effect when combined)
Tolerable upper intake: 400 mcg/day
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Selenium help with Nutritional Deficiency Hair Loss?
Based on 38 studies with 10,748 participants, there is strong evidence from multiple clinical trials that Selenium may support Nutritional Deficiency Hair Loss management. Our evidence grade is A (Strong Evidence).
How much Selenium should I take for Nutritional Deficiency Hair Loss?
Studies have used various dosages. A commonly studied range is 55 mcg/day. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.
Are there side effects of Selenium?
Reported side effects may include Hair loss at excessive doses (selenosis), Brittle nails, Garlic-like breath odor at high doses, Nausea and diarrhea. Most side effects are mild and dose-dependent. Consult your doctor if you experience any adverse reactions.
How strong is the evidence for Selenium and Nutritional Deficiency Hair Loss?
We rate the evidence as Grade A (Strong Evidence). This rating is based on 38 peer-reviewed studies with 10,748 total participants. The overall direction of effect is mixed.
Related Evidence
Other ingredients for Nutritional Deficiency Hair Loss
Selenium for other conditions
FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.