Are dark circles and lacklustre skin a sign of low iron?

A TikTok trend known as 'ferritin face' claims dark circles, pale skin and hair loss may point to low iron, but doctors say looks alone cannot confirm a deficiency.

A viral TikTok trend suggesting that facial features can reveal an iron deficiency has led doctors to caution against using social media to diagnose health conditions.

The trend, dubbed 'ferritin face', claims that dark circles, pale skin, cracked lips and hair loss may be signs of very low iron stores.

Specialists say iron deficiency can affect appearance, but only a blood test can determine whether it is the cause.

Ferritin is the protein that stores iron in the body, and low levels can indicate a deficiency.

Professor Sue Pavord, a haematology specialist at Oxford University Hospitals, said iron is essential for the proper functioning of every cell in the body.

She told The Guardian: “Iron is needed for every single cell of the body. So if you are iron deficient, you will be very fatigued, have brain fog, your skin will look dull and saggy, you'll look pale and tired.”

She added: “While we can't diagnose iron deficiency from the face, it might be a suggestion that there is iron deficiency.”

But the same symptoms shared in social media clips can also be caused by stress, dehydration, genetics and other medical conditions.

NHS guidance says iron deficiency may lead to tiredness, breathlessness, headaches and noticeable heart palpitations.

Common causes include heavy periods and pregnancy, although poor diet, problems absorbing iron and gastrointestinal bleeding can also play a part.

Professor Toby Richards, from the University of East London and the Iron Clinic, advised people at higher risk, including those with heavy periods and some vegetarians and vegans, to speak to a doctor about blood testing.

He said tests should include a full blood count, ferritin levels and, where appropriate, vitamin B12 and folate.

Pavord also said it is important to find the underlying cause of iron deficiency, especially in older patients who may need checks for internal bleeding.

Experts have also warned against taking iron supplements without first confirming a need for them.

Richards said many products sold online contain lower doses than those used to treat diagnosed iron deficiency.

Dr Asiya Maula, a GP at The Health Suite, said: “The risk with social media trends is that people may see themselves in a list of symptoms and assume they have a deficiency without checking whether that is actually the cause.”

Even so, Pavord said increased awareness of the condition is welcome.

She said: “We need to stop normalising iron deficiency.”

Anyone with ongoing tiredness or other possible symptoms should speak to their GP rather than relying on viral videos for a diagnosis.