Iron is an essential mineral that helps make haemoglobin, a protein in Red Blood Cells (RBCs) that carries oxygen from the lungs to every part of the body. Additionally, it facilitates energy production, maintains the immune system, synthesises hormones and proteins, and assists in cell and organ function. While low levels of iron can affect different organs in the body, a deficiency can also take a toll on your skin, which is the largest external part of the body.
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Shireen Furtado, Senior Consultant - Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, shares common warning signs on the skin, hair, and nails associated with low iron levels.
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Pale, Dry, Or Dull Skin That Heals Slowly
Iron deficiency can cause many visible changes in the skin, hair, and nails, explains Dr Furtado. When the body lacks iron, less oxygen reaches the skin cells, making the skin appear pale, dry, or dull. She adds that wounds may also take longer to heal, and some people notice dark circles under the eyes as an early sign.
Hair Thinning, Loss of Shine, And Excessive Hair Fall
According to Dr Furtado, iron deficiency often shows up first in the hair. “Hair becomes thin and weak and may fall out more easily when the body lacks iron,” she explains. Since haemoglobin is needed to carry oxygen to hair follicles, a deficiency can slow growth and strip the hair of its natural shine. Over time, many people also notice their hair looking dull and lifeless.
Brittle Nails
Nails are another area where iron deficiency becomes quite visible. "Nails can turn brittle, break quickly, or develop ridges. In severe cases, nails may become spoon-shaped, bending upwards," highlights Dr Furtado. These changes, she explains, are warning signs that the body is struggling to maintain healthy tissue due to low iron levels.
Dark Circles
Dark circles are the bluish, purplish, or brownish shadows that appear beneath the eyes. While lack of sleep is the most common cause, Dr Furtado points out that iron deficiency can also play a big role. When iron levels are low, there isn’t enough haemoglobin to carry oxygen efficiently. This reduced oxygen supply makes the delicate skin under the eyes look darker and more sunken. For some people, this can be one of the earliest visible signs of low iron, appearing even before more obvious symptoms like fatigue set in.
Cracks At The Corners Of The Mouth
Cracks or sores at the corners of the mouth, medically known as angular cheilitis, are another sign of iron deficiency. These painful sores often make it uncomfortable to eat, smile, or even talk. Dr Furtado explains that when iron levels are low, the skin loses its ability to repair itself quickly, making delicate areas like the mouth more prone to dryness and cracking.
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How To Fix The Problem
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“Diet changes can help reverse visible symptoms of iron deficiency by giving the body enough iron to make healthy blood,” shares Dr Furthado. These include:
- Eating iron-rich foods like leafy green vegetables, beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, eggs, chicken, and red meat
- Eating foods rich in vitamin C, such as oranges, tomatoes, and berries
- Avoiding too much tea or coffee with meals
“With regular intake of iron-rich foods, the skin can regain its natural glow, hair may become stronger and shinier, and nails can grow healthier. Over time, these changes help improve both appearance and overall energy levels,” she adds.
When Persistent Symptoms Need Doctor’s Attention
According to Dr Furtado, one should consult a doctor if signs like pale or dry skin, frequent hair fall, or brittle nails continue for several weeks even after eating a healthy diet. “If nails become spoon-shaped, skin wounds take a long time to heal, or cracks appear around the mouth, it is important to seek medical advice.
Other symptoms like extreme tiredness, dizziness, shortness of breath, or a fast heartbeat, along with skin and hair changes, are strong warning signs of iron deficiency.
She concludes by saying that a doctor can confirm the condition with a blood test and suggest the right treatment, which may include supplements or diet changes. “Early consultation helps prevent iron deficiency from turning into anaemia and protects overall health while improving visible symptoms.”