Nano-iron oxide (α-Fe₂O₃) is characterized by its stable chemical properties, environmental friendliness, low preparation cost, and narrow band gap, which makes it an ideal visible-light catalyst. The article introduces the research progress of different preparation methods of α-Fe₂O₃, with an emphasis on the preparation process of some special structures. The research focuses on the effects of different dopants on photocatalytic performance for degradation of organic pollutants and on their enhancement mechanism as well. Also, the development trends and application prospection of doped α-Fe₂O₃ are summarized.