Blood test

How does a blood test work?

Our blood test provides a detailed picture of your internal hair health. Relevant blood values — such as nutrients and hormones — are analyzed to identify the specific causes of your hair loss. This forms the basis for a personalized treatment plan that strengthens your hair from within and promotes healthy, sustainable growth.

What is tested in a blood test?

The blood test analyzes values directly related to hair health, metabolism, and cell regeneration — including nutrients, hormones, and metabolic parameters. This allows us to identify what your hair really needs.

Why is a blood test important?

Hair loss often has internal causes. A blood test can reveal whether there is a deficiency, hormonal imbalance, or stress factor. This is the only way to develop a targeted and effective treatment plan.

How is the test conducted?

The blood sample is taken quickly and easily at our practice. Your sample is then analyzed in a specialized laboratory. After a few days, you will discuss the results with our doctors.

What happens after the analysis?

Based on your blood values, we develop your individual treatment plan — with PRP, exosomes, targeted supplements, and care recommendations tailored to your needs.

What is tested in a blood test?

The blood test analyzes values directly related to hair health, metabolism, and cell regeneration — including nutrients, hormones, and metabolic parameters. This allows us to identify what your hair really needs.

Why is a blood test important?

Hair loss often has internal causes. A blood test can reveal whether there is a deficiency, hormonal imbalance, or stress factor. This is the only way to develop a targeted and effective treatment plan.

How is the test conducted?

The blood sample is taken quickly and easily at our practice. Your sample is then analyzed in a specialized laboratory. After a few days, you will discuss the results with our doctors.

What happens after the analysis?

Based on your blood values, we develop your individual treatment plan — with PRP, exosomes, targeted supplements, and care recommendations tailored to your needs.

Blood test

Process of blood test

Blutentnahme zur Laboranalyse der Haarausfall-Ursachen bei Māra in Zürich

01

Blood test

We begin with a detailed blood analysis at our practice in Zurich. The specialized Analytica laboratory examines ferritin, zinc, TSH, cortisol, vitamin D, CRP and platelets — everything directly related to hair health.

02

Hair diagnosis

We use our analysis device to assess the condition of your scalp and hair structure. This allows us to recognize structural changes, inflammatory processes, and the vitality of your follicles — the basis for every treatment plan.

Ärztliches Gespräch zur Besprechung der Blutergebnisse in der Māra Praxis

03

Consultation & Therapy Plan

Based on your analysis, we create an individual therapy plan — with clear recommendations for PRP, exosomes, supplements and care, tailored to your blood values and hair situation.

Zentrifuge zur Aufbereitung von Eigenblut für die PRP-Behandlung bei Māra

Personalized treatment through blood diagnostics

Based on the analysis of your biomarkers, we create a treatment plan that targets the cause of hair loss and strengthens hair growth from within. We take a blood sample not only to analyze the relevant biomarkers, but also to prepare your PRP treatment as effectively as possible — including measuring your platelet concentration to achieve optimal results. Analysis of markers such as:

Ferritin
Zink
TSH
Cortisol
Vitamin D
CRP
Platelets

We are the only practice in Switzerland that performs PRP preparation after precise platelet measurement. This ensures that your autologous blood therapy is carried out with the optimal cell concentration — for maximum effectiveness and safety. No more guessing which vitamins or treatments you need — we advise you based on your data.

Start with your treatment

Blood test

For men - individual solutions for almost every hair type and cause

A blood test helps make internal causes of hair loss visible. The earlier the cause is identified, the more precisely treatment can be tailored.

Mann bei der Haaranalyse in der Māra Haarklinik

Blood test

For men - individual solutions for almost all hair types and causes

A blood test helps make internal causes of hair loss visible. The earlier the cause is identified, the more precisely treatment can be tailored.

Cause 1

Hereditary hair loss

Typical male hair loss often begins with a receding hairline or thinning on the crown — genetically determined. Over time, hair loss can spread and affect the forehead and crown area. The earlier it is detected, the easier it is to counteract it — for example with PRP and exosome therapy.

Cause 2

Hormonal causes

The hormone DHT can attack the hair roots — especially with genetic sensitivity. DHT (dihydrotestosterone) shortens the growth phase of the hair. The follicles shrink until they stop producing new hair. Targeted treatment can slow down or even reverse this process.

Cause 3

Stress & lifestyle

Permanent stress, lack of sleep or unhealthy habits can accelerate hair loss. Stress hormones disrupt hair cycles and often lead to diffuse hair loss. Smoking, alcohol or poor nutrition also have a negative effect on hair roots.

Book free consultation

Blood test

For women - individual solutions for every type of hair loss

Hair loss in women can have many causes. A targeted blood test shows whether nutrients, hormones, or inflammatory markers are out of balance.

Blood test

For women - individual solutions for every type of hair loss

Hair loss in women can have many causes. A targeted blood test shows whether nutrients, hormones or inflammation markers are out of balance.

Cause 1

Hormonal changes

Pregnancy, menopause or hormonal fluctuations can directly affect the hair cycle. A targeted blood test shows whether TSH, estrogen, prolactin or other hormone levels are out of balance — the basis for effective therapy.

Cause 2

Hereditary hair loss

Inherited predisposition often leads to gradually thinning hair, especially around the crown. This hormonal-genetic hair loss can begin as early as age 30 and progresses slowly without treatment.

Cause 3

Stress & psychological strain

Emotional or physical stress can result in sudden, diffuse hair loss. Hair falls out evenly across the entire head — often as a reaction to illness, surgery, or psychological strain.

Book free consultation

Blood test

For women - individual solutions for every type of hair loss

Hair loss in women can have many causes. A targeted blood test shows whether nutrients, hormones, or inflammatory markers are out of balance.

Frau mit langem, gesundem Haar nach individueller Behandlung

PRP treatment + supplements

Timeframe

After 5 months

View all before-and-after results

Next step

Discover the causes of your hair loss with a free analysis

In our modern clinic at Bleicherweg 72, Zurich, our experienced expert team analyses the causes of your hair loss using a professional hair analysis and supplementary blood analysis. This is how we develop an individual and targeted solution precisely tailored to you.

Book a free consultation

Frequently asked questions

Nutrient Deficiencies as a Common Cause

Deficiencies in essential nutrients are among the most frequent — and at the same time, most treatable — causes of hair loss. Trace elements such as iron, zinc, selenium, and copper are crucial for cell division, pigmentation, and the structural integrity of hair follicles. When these nutrients are lacking, hair becomes brittle, thin, and more prone to shedding. The ferritin level, which indicates the body’s iron stores, is particularly important. Low ferritin is one of the main causes of diffuse hair loss (telogen effluvium). Levels below 40 ng/ml often lead to increased shedding, and even values between 40 and 70 ng/ml can negatively affect hair growth.Zinc strengthens the immune system and protects the scalp from inflammation. B vitamins promote cell division and stimulate the hair roots — a deficiency can result in split ends, dull hair, and hair loss.

Hormonal Imbalances and Their Effect on Hair

Hormonal imbalances can also significantly affect hair growth. The thyroid gland plays a key role in this process. The TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) baseline value is an important indicator of thyroid function. Both hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) can cause hair loss, as they disrupt the metabolic activity of hair follicles. In androgenetic alopecia, hair follicles are overly sensitive to the male sex hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This hormone causes the follicles to shrink, reducing blood supply and leading to follicular miniaturization. In women, elevated androgen levels caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can lead to hair loss. Common accompanying symptoms include acne, increased body hair, and irregular menstrual cycles.‍

Inflammation and Autoimmune Reactions

Inflammatory processes play a role in many forms of hair loss. Elevated inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) in the blood may indicate chronic inflammation that damages hair follicles and inhibits hair growth.

If an autoimmune condition is suspected, antinuclear antibodies (ANA) are tested. These can indicate immune system dysfunction — as seen in alopecia areata (circular hair loss). In this condition, the body’s own immune cells (T-lymphocytes) attack the hair roots, triggering inflammation. It is important to note that alopecia areata is not caused by nutrient deficiencies or hormonal changes — blood results in these cases clearly indicate an autoimmune reaction.‍

Identifying Genetic Predisposition

Genetic factors also play a significant role, particularly in androgenetic alopecia. The hypersensitivity of hair follicles to DHT is hereditary. Researchers have identified several genes associated with this type of hair loss, including the androgen receptor gene, which appears to be especially influential.

Approximately 20–30% of women exhibit increased sensitivity to androgens and may develop genetically induced hair loss — even when hormone levels in the blood are within the normal range.

‍

In cases of hair loss, a blood test is a key component in identifying the underlying cause. It helps detect nutrient deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, or inflammatory processes that may impair hair growth. A comprehensive blood analysis includes several important parameters that provide clues about the source of the problem.‍

Thyroid Hormones and Metabolism

The thyroid gland regulates numerous metabolic processes and therefore has a direct influence on hair growth. The thyroid hormones T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine) act directly on the cells responsible for hair formation. Both an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) and an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can lead to hair loss.

In hypothyroidism, hair usually grows more slowly, becomes dry, brittle, and loses its shine. Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, often causes fine, fast-growing hair that breaks easily. Interestingly, even mild thyroid dysfunction can cause noticeable hair loss.‍

Iron, Zinc, and Other Minerals

Iron is essential for the production of red blood cells and the oxygen supply to hair follicles. The ferritin level in the blood indicates how well the body’s iron stores are filled. Levels below 40 ng/ml often lead to diffuse hair loss (telogen effluvium). Even levels up to 70 ng/ml can contribute to hair shedding—normal hair growth usually resumes only once ferritin levels exceed about 70 ng/ml.

Zinc plays a vital role in scalp health, immune function, and cell regeneration. It supports the formation of keratin, the primary structural protein of hair. A deficiency can cause brittle hair and increased shedding.

Other important trace elements include:

Selenium: Supports thyroid function and protects cells from oxidative stress.
Copper: Contributes to hair pigmentation and structural stability.‍

Vitamins for Healthy Hair

Several vitamins are indispensable for strong hair growth and healthy follicles:

Vitamin B12: Supports cell division and growth, promoting hair regeneration.
Vitamin D: Important for the formation of new hair follicles and regulation of calcium balance.
Biotin (Vitamin B7): A key building block for keratin, the structural protein of hair.
Folic Acid (Vitamin B9): Promotes cell division within the hair roots.
Vitamin C: Improves iron absorption and protects hair cells from free radicals.‍

Inflammatory Markers and Immune Values

Inflammatory markers such as erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) indicate whether chronic inflammation is present in the body. Such inflammation can damage hair follicles and disrupt growth.

If an autoimmune condition is suspected, antinuclear antibodies (ANA) are also measured. Elevated levels can indicate autoimmune processes that may contribute to hair loss.‍

Hormonal Values: Testosterone, SHBG, and Others

In hormonally induced hair loss—such as androgenetic alopecia—male sex hormones are evaluated. These include testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). Only the free, unbound form of testosterone is biologically active and capable of affecting the hair follicles.

If hormonal imbalances are suspected, additional hormones such as androstenedione, prolactin, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) are analyzed—especially in women experiencing menstrual irregularities or excessive hair growth.‍

Nutrient Deficiencies as a Common Cause

Deficiencies in essential nutrients are among the most frequent — and at the same time, most treatable — causes of hair loss. Trace elements such as iron, zinc, selenium, and copper are crucial for cell division, pigmentation, and the structural integrity of hair follicles. When these nutrients are lacking, hair becomes brittle, thin, and more prone to shedding. The ferritin level, which indicates the body’s iron stores, is particularly important. Low ferritin is one of the main causes of diffuse hair loss (telogen effluvium). Levels below 40 ng/ml often lead to increased shedding, and even values between 40 and 70 ng/ml can negatively affect hair growth.Zinc strengthens the immune system and protects the scalp from inflammation. B vitamins promote cell division and stimulate the hair roots — a deficiency can result in split ends, dull hair, and hair loss.

Hormonal Imbalances and Their Effect on Hair

Hormonal imbalances can also significantly affect hair growth. The thyroid gland plays a key role in this process. The TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) baseline value is an important indicator of thyroid function. Both hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) can cause hair loss, as they disrupt the metabolic activity of hair follicles. In androgenetic alopecia, hair follicles are overly sensitive to the male sex hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This hormone causes the follicles to shrink, reducing blood supply and leading to follicular miniaturization. In women, elevated androgen levels caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can lead to hair loss. Common accompanying symptoms include acne, increased body hair, and irregular menstrual cycles.‍

Inflammation and Autoimmune Reactions

Inflammatory processes play a role in many forms of hair loss. Elevated inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) in the blood may indicate chronic inflammation that damages hair follicles and inhibits hair growth.

If an autoimmune condition is suspected, antinuclear antibodies (ANA) are tested. These can indicate immune system dysfunction — as seen in alopecia areata (circular hair loss). In this condition, the body’s own immune cells (T-lymphocytes) attack the hair roots, triggering inflammation. It is important to note that alopecia areata is not caused by nutrient deficiencies or hormonal changes — blood results in these cases clearly indicate an autoimmune reaction.‍

Identifying Genetic Predisposition

Genetic factors also play a significant role, particularly in androgenetic alopecia. The hypersensitivity of hair follicles to DHT is hereditary. Researchers have identified several genes associated with this type of hair loss, including the androgen receptor gene, which appears to be especially influential.

Approximately 20–30% of women exhibit increased sensitivity to androgens and may develop genetically induced hair loss — even when hormone levels in the blood are within the normal range.

‍

In cases of hair loss, a blood test is a key component in identifying the underlying cause. It helps detect nutrient deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, or inflammatory processes that may impair hair growth. A comprehensive blood analysis includes several important parameters that provide clues about the source of the problem.‍

Thyroid Hormones and Metabolism

The thyroid gland regulates numerous metabolic processes and therefore has a direct influence on hair growth. The thyroid hormones T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine) act directly on the cells responsible for hair formation. Both an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) and an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can lead to hair loss.

In hypothyroidism, hair usually grows more slowly, becomes dry, brittle, and loses its shine. Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, often causes fine, fast-growing hair that breaks easily. Interestingly, even mild thyroid dysfunction can cause noticeable hair loss.‍

Iron, Zinc, and Other Minerals

Iron is essential for the production of red blood cells and the oxygen supply to hair follicles. The ferritin level in the blood indicates how well the body’s iron stores are filled. Levels below 40 ng/ml often lead to diffuse hair loss (telogen effluvium). Even levels up to 70 ng/ml can contribute to hair shedding—normal hair growth usually resumes only once ferritin levels exceed about 70 ng/ml.

Zinc plays a vital role in scalp health, immune function, and cell regeneration. It supports the formation of keratin, the primary structural protein of hair. A deficiency can cause brittle hair and increased shedding.

Other important trace elements include:

Selenium: Supports thyroid function and protects cells from oxidative stress.
Copper: Contributes to hair pigmentation and structural stability.‍

Vitamins for Healthy Hair

Several vitamins are indispensable for strong hair growth and healthy follicles:

Vitamin B12: Supports cell division and growth, promoting hair regeneration.
Vitamin D: Important for the formation of new hair follicles and regulation of calcium balance.
Biotin (Vitamin B7): A key building block for keratin, the structural protein of hair.
Folic Acid (Vitamin B9): Promotes cell division within the hair roots.
Vitamin C: Improves iron absorption and protects hair cells from free radicals.‍

Inflammatory Markers and Immune Values

Inflammatory markers such as erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) indicate whether chronic inflammation is present in the body. Such inflammation can damage hair follicles and disrupt growth.

If an autoimmune condition is suspected, antinuclear antibodies (ANA) are also measured. Elevated levels can indicate autoimmune processes that may contribute to hair loss.‍

Hormonal Values: Testosterone, SHBG, and Others

In hormonally induced hair loss—such as androgenetic alopecia—male sex hormones are evaluated. These include testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). Only the free, unbound form of testosterone is biologically active and capable of affecting the hair follicles.

If hormonal imbalances are suspected, additional hormones such as androstenedione, prolactin, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) are analyzed—especially in women experiencing menstrual irregularities or excessive hair growth.‍

Your blood shows what your hair is lacking

How does a blood test work?

What is tested in a blood test?

Why is a blood test important?

How is the test conducted?

What happens after the analysis?

What is tested in a blood test?

Why is a blood test important?

How is the test conducted?

What happens after the analysis?

Process of blood test

Blood test

Hair diagnosis

Consultation & Therapy Plan

Personalized treatment through blood diagnostics

For men - individual solutions for almost every hair type and cause

For men - individual solutions for almost all hair types and causes

Cause 1

Hereditary hair loss

Cause 2

Hormonal causes

Cause 3

Stress & lifestyle

For women - individual solutions for every type of hair loss

For women - individual solutions for every type of hair loss

Cause 1

Hormonal changes

Cause 2

Hereditary hair loss

Cause 3

Stress & psychological strain

For women - individual solutions for every type of hair loss

Visible results

Jana F.

Ahmed M.

Oxana L.

Yann P.

Emilia L.

Takomi O.

Moh A.

Marie S.

Discover the causes of your hair loss with a free analysis

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get the blood test results?

Why is it a good idea to have a blood test before undergoing hair loss treatment in Zurich?

How much does a blood test cost?

What do blood values reveal about the causes of hair loss?

Which blood values are examined in cases of hair loss?

Why is a blood test useful for hair loss?

How long does it take to get the blood test results?

Why is it a good idea to have a blood test before undergoing hair loss treatment in Zurich?

How much does a blood test cost?

What do blood values reveal about the causes of hair loss?

Which blood values are examined in cases of hair loss?

Why is a blood test useful for hair loss?