Thyroid disorders can affect skin health

Thyroid gland is responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature and it plays a pivotal role in overall well-being including skin health. 

Let’s look into the link between thyroid disease and skin health. The thyroid gland produces two key hormones: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones orchestrate growth, development, and metabolism. When the thyroid dances out of rhythm, it leads to two common disorders:

Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid that fails to produce enough hormones. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, depression and lower limb lymphedema. In hypothyroidism, the skin often becomes dry and rough, Boggy and edematous skin (myxedema), and thickness of palms and soles (known as Keratoderma) and alopecia of the lateral third of the eyebrows.

Hyperthyroidism: An overactive thyroid that churns out excess hormones. Symptoms include weight loss, anxiety, and sweating. Here, the skin tends to be thin and fragile. Hairs become Dull, coarse, brittle

According to Institute of Applied Dermatology (IAD) founder-director and senior dermatologist Dr S R Narahari, thyroid disorders can have a big impact on skin health. Hypothyroidism can cause dry and itchy skin basically it affects skin hydration, leading to dryness and persistent itching. Thyroid imbalances also disrupt the hair growth cycle making hair brittle and thin.

Other common issues are

Changes in skin texture: Hypothyroidism may render your skin pale or yellowed, while hyperthyroidism can make it appear thin and translucent.

Easy bruising and fragility: Hyperthyroidism’s impact on collagen production can leave your skin prone to bruising and tearing.

Swollen fingertips and curved nails: Keep an eye out for these subtle signs—they could signal thyroid trouble.

Take care of your thyroid and skin

·        Include iodine-rich foods such as seafood in your diet.

·        Chronic stress affects thyroid health. Practice meditation, yoga, or deep breathing to keep stress at bay.

·        Physical activity boosts metabolism and keeps your thyroid humming.

Seeking Medical Attention

If you notice skin changes—whether it’s dryness, hair loss, or unusual nail growth—consult a healthcare professional. Thyroid changes can happen with or without goitre that is swelling of  thyroid gland on neck.