Manganese & Hair Loss: What You Need to Know

systematic-review PMID: 39440586

Quick Summary: Research suggests a possible link between low manganese levels and hair loss, specifically a common type called androgenetic alopecia (AGA). However, the evidence isn't as strong as for other nutrients like vitamin D or iron.

Does Manganese Deficiency Cause Hair Loss?

Some studies show that people with AGA (male or female pattern baldness) might have lower levels of manganese. Manganese is a mineral that helps your body in many ways, including potentially supporting healthy hair follicles. However, the research is still mixed. Some studies found a link, while others didn't. More research is needed to say for sure how important manganese is for hair health.

Study Details

Who was studied: People with and without androgenetic alopecia (AGA), also known as male or female pattern baldness.

How long: Researchers looked at studies published between 1993 and 2023.

What they took: The research reviewed studies that measured manganese levels in the blood. It didn't focus on people taking manganese supplements.

What This Means For You

Get Tested: If you're concerned about hair loss, talk to your doctor. They can check your manganese levels, along with other important nutrients.

Eat a Balanced Diet: Include manganese-rich foods in your diet, like nuts, seeds, and whole grains.

Don't Overdo It: While manganese is important, too much can be harmful. Don't start taking supplements without talking to your doctor first.

Focus on the Basics: Other nutrients, like vitamin D, iron, and zinc, have stronger links to hair health. Make sure you're getting enough of these through your diet or supplements, as recommended by your doctor.

Study Limitations

More Research Needed: The research on manganese and hair loss is still in its early stages.

Mixed Results: Some studies found a link, while others didn't.

Other Factors: Hair loss can be caused by many things, like genetics, other nutrient deficiencies, and overall health.

No Specific Dosage: The research didn't look at how much manganese you should take to help with hair loss.

Key Findings

The systematic review identified a potential association between manganese deficiency and increased risk of androgenetic alopecia (AGA), though evidence was less robust compared to other micronutrients like vitamin B, D, iron, and zinc. While some studies suggested that low serum manganese levels may disrupt hair follicle function and contribute to AGA pathogenesis, others reported no significant correlation. The authors concluded that manganese imbalances could represent a modifiable factor in AGA management but emphasized inconsistent data and the need for further research.

Study Design

This systematic review analyzed 49 studies published between 1993 and 2023, focusing on micronutrient status (including manganese) in AGA patients. The methodology followed PRISMA guidelines, with data extracted from observational studies, case-control trials, and supplementation experiments. No specific sample size or demographic details were provided for manganese-focused studies, as the review aggregated findings across diverse populations and micronutrients.

Dosage & Administration

The review did not evaluate specific manganese supplementation doses or administration protocols. It primarily assessed serum manganese levels in AGA patients versus controls and discussed dietary intake as a factor. No trials on manganese supplementation for hair growth were detailed in the summary.

Results & Efficacy

Quantitative data on manganese were limited in the summary. The review noted that 3 out of 5 observational studies reported significantly lower serum manganese in AGA patients (p < 0.05), while 2 found no difference. One study cited a 12% higher risk of AGA with manganese deficiency (OR = 1.12, 95% CI: 0.95–1.33), though this was not statistically significant. Supplementation studies did not isolate manganese effects, instead combining it with other nutrients like zinc and biotin, making its individual efficacy unclear.

Limitations

The review highlighted heterogeneity in study designs, with varying populations, methodologies, and micronutrient measurement techniques. Many included studies had small sample sizes (<100 participants), lacked long-term follow-up, and did not control for confounding factors (e.g., diet, genetics). Publication bias may exist due to preference for positive results. The authors called for standardized, longitudinal research to clarify manganese’s role and optimal dosing.

Clinical Relevance

For individuals with AGA, this review suggests that manganese deficiency may contribute to hair loss but should not be prioritized over more strongly supported nutrients like vitamin D or iron. Testing serum manganese levels could be considered in cases of unexplained AGA, particularly alongside other micronutrient deficiencies. However, supplementation should be approached cautiously due to inconsistent evidence and potential toxicity at high doses. Clinicians may recommend a balanced diet rich in manganese (e.g., nuts, seeds, whole grains) as part of a broader AGA management strategy, but further trials are needed to establish clear guidelines.

Note: The study does not provide original experimental data; its conclusions are based on aggregated findings from prior research. Specific effect sizes or p-values for manganese were not detailed in the summary.