Have you ever looked at your eyes and noticed that the edges of your eyelids are frozen? If not, then checking it now can give you some crucial insight into your thyroid health.

The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped gland located at the neck’s base. It is responsible for producing the T3 and T4 hormones – two hormones that are essential for regulating the body’s metabolism.

Sometimes, the thyroid gland may not function correctly and needs medical attention to correct its performance.

One of the indicators of poor thyroid health is the presence of frozen edges around the eyelids. This article will discuss what frozen edges are and the significance it has on one’s thyroid health.

What are Frozen Edges?

Frozen edges, also known as the outer third of the eyebrows, are the tails of the eyebrows that point towards the ear’s edge. These edges help to define the shape and appearance of the eyebrows, giving them the distinct curved shape.

In people who have poor thyroid health, these edges become frozen, meaning they lose their tapered shape and gradually become straight. This loss of shape is usually in both eyebrows and can indicate the dysfunction of the thyroid gland.

What Causes Frozen Edges?

Several factors can cause frozen edges, including:.

Thyroid Disease

Frozen edges are one of the most common symptoms of thyroid disease. When the thyroid gland is underactive (hypothyroidism), it cannot produce enough T3 and T4 hormones, leading to a slower metabolic rate.

As a result, the hair follicles’ growth slows down, leading to hair loss, including the hair in the eyebrows’ outer third.

Aging

As we age, the body’s production of hormones decreases. Natural aging processes can also cause changes in hair growth patterns, leading to thinning hair. This reduction in hair growth can also include eyebrows.

Eventually, hair may stop growing entirely, leaving bald spots where the outer third of the eyebrows once was.

Nutrient Deficiencies

A diet low in essential nutrients can also cause eyebrow hair loss. Nutrients such as Vitamin D, iron, and biotin are necessary for hair growth.

If the body is deficient in any of these nutrients, the hair, including eyebrow hair, can become thin and eventually fall out.

How to Treat Frozen Edges?

If you have frozen edges, it is essential to get your thyroid health checked. Your doctor may order a blood test to check your thyroid hormone levels. Depending on the results, they may recommend medications to regulate the hormone imbalance.

Besides medication, some other ways to treat eyebrow hair loss include:.

Nutrient-Rich Diet

Eating a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can help stimulate hair growth. Iron-rich foods such as red meat, spinach, and lentils can boost hair growth. Other nutrient-dense foods such as eggs, nuts, and fish can also help in hair growth.

Topical Treatments

Some topical treatments can be used to boost hair growth. These treatments include serums and oils that can be applied to the eyebrows to stimulate hair growth. Some of these treatments contain ingredients such as castor oil, biotin, and coconut oil.

Microblading

Microblading is a semi-permanent cosmetic procedure that can help define the eyebrows’ shape and fill in bald spots. During the procedure, a small handheld tool is used to draw on hair-like strokes to create a natural-looking brow shape.

Conclusion

Frozen edges are a common symptom of thyroid disease and should not be ignored. Checking for frozen edges and speaking with your doctor if you notice them is essential to maintain good thyroid health.

Getting the correct treatment for your thyroid condition can prevent further complications and minimize the risk of serious health issues.