Alopecia and Autoimmune Thyroiditis: The Role of Selenium and Zinc

Alopecia is often linked with autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT), where immune dysregulation, thyroid hormone fluctuations, and trace element imbalances play a role. Selenium is crucial for selenoproteins that aid in thyroid hormone metabolism and protect thyroid cells from oxidative stress, while zinc is vital for thyroid hormone synthesis, cell proliferation, and hair follicle health. Zinc deficiency is a known cause of diffuse alopecia. Although selenium and zinc primarily influence hair restoration indirectly in AIT, addressing their deficiencies may help improve symptoms. Thus, evaluating and correcting selenium and zinc levels is essential in managing AIT-related alopecia.