Health

How your thyroid affects your hair

Learn how your thyroid affects your hair, including hypothyroidism and hair loss, hyperthyroidism, hair texture changes, and the lack of nutrients for hair growth. Discover how you can keep your thyroid and hair healthy with a balanced diet and good hair care habits

Your thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in your neck that plays a crucial role in regulating your metabolism, body temperature, and heart rate.

However, did you know that the health of your thyroid can also affect the appearance and texture of your hair? Let’s explore the connection between your thyroid and hair.

What Is the Thyroid?

The thyroid gland produces hormones that are essential for several vital functions in your body, including energy regulation, weight management, and growth and development. These hormones are called thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).

When the levels of these hormones are too low or too high, it can affect different functions in your body, including your hair growth and texture.

How Does Your Thyroid Affect Your Hair?

Your thyroid hormones play an essential role in regulating the growth and regeneration of your hair follicles. When the levels of thyroid hormones are too low, it can lead to hair loss, thinning, and slow growth.

On the other hand, when the levels of thyroid hormones are too high, it can cause your hair to become dry, brittle, and prone to breakage.

Hypothyroidism and Hair Loss

Hypothyroidism is a condition where your thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones. This condition can cause several symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, and hair loss.

When the levels of thyroid hormones are too low, it can affect the growth and regeneration of your hair follicles, leading to hair loss and thinning.

Moreover, hypothyroidism can also lead to a condition called telogen effluvium, which causes your hair to fall out in large amounts. Telogen effluvium occurs when your hair enters the resting phase too early, leading to premature shedding.

This condition can cause your hair to become noticeably thin, and you may notice more hair falling out when brushing or washing your hair.

Hyperthyroidism and Hair Texture Changes

Hyperthyroidism is a condition where your thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. This condition can cause several symptoms, including weight loss, anxiety, and hair texture changes.

Related Article The link between hair loss and an underactive thyroid The link between hair loss and an underactive thyroid

When the levels of thyroid hormones are too high, it can affect the growth and regeneration of your hair follicles, leading to weak, brittle, and dry hair.

Moreover, hyperthyroidism can also cause your body to produce more sebum, an oily substance that can make your hair greasy and prone to breakage.

You may also notice your hair becoming more frizzy and prone to static due to the change in hair texture caused by hyperthyroidism.

Hypothyroidism and the Lack of Nutrients for Hair Growth

Hypothyroidism can also affect your body’s ability to absorb essential nutrients that are necessary for hair growth.

When the levels of thyroid hormones are too low, it can cause a deficiency in iron, zinc, and other nutrients that are essential for hair growth. This deficiency can lead to hair loss, thinning, and slow growth.

How Can You Keep Your Thyroid and Hair Healthy?

To keep your thyroid and hair healthy, you should follow a balanced diet that includes foods rich in iodine, iron, zinc, and other nutrients that are essential for hair growth.

Moreover, you should also practice good hair care habits, such as washing your hair regularly, using a gentle shampoo, and avoiding heat styling tools that can damage your hair.

If you notice any changes in your hair’s texture, thickness, or growth, you should consult your doctor to check your thyroid hormone levels and rule out any underlying condition that could be affecting your hair.

The Bottom Line

Your thyroid plays a crucial role in regulating your body’s functions, including your hair growth and texture. When the levels of thyroid hormones are too low or too high, it can affect the growth and appearance of your hair.

To keep your thyroid and hair healthy, you should follow a balanced diet, practice good hair care habits, and consult your doctor if you notice any changes in your hair.

Disclaimer: This article serves as general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Individual circumstances may vary.
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