What in the World - Is ‘ferritin face’ a real thing? - BBC Sounds

World Service , · 05 Nov 2026 , · 8 mins

You might’ve seen lots of chat online about ‘ferritin face’ alongside zoomed in before and after pics of people’s faces. Some claim that changes in their appearance, like pale skin and hair loss, are down to having low ferritin levels. But what even is ferritin? It’s the protein responsible for storing iron in the body. Iron is important for creating red blood cells, which carry oxygen around the body. It’s needed for things like your energy levels, skin and hair health. So, can you tell if your ferritin levels are low just by your face? We break it down with the BBC’s Zara Salaria and Dr Aziza Sesay, who specialises in female health. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Mollie Perella and Zara Salaria Editor: Verity Wilde