Symptom 5. Hair Loss and Dry Skin: Visible Changes
Hashimoto’s disease can result in noticeable changes in skin and hair, primarily due to the role thyroid hormones play in skin renewal and hair growth. The slowed metabolism and decreased hormone production can lead to hair loss and dry, flaky skin—symptoms that are often distressing due to their visible nature.
Hair loss in Hashimoto’s disease isn’t limited to the scalp. It can affect any part of the body, including eyebrows and body hair. The hair loss is often diffuse, meaning it’s spread out over the scalp rather than concentrated in specific areas. Women may notice more hair than usual on their hairbrush, pillow, or shower drain.
Similarly, the skin may become dry and rough, resembling the texture of sandpaper. This occurs because decreased thyroid hormone levels reduce the skin’s ability to regenerate and retain moisture. (5)
