Symptom 5. Dry Skin – A Subtle Sign of Low Iodine
Dry skin is another symptom often linked to iodine deficiency. This might seem surprising, as we don’t often associate skin health with iodine. However, when you understand the crucial role iodine plays in skin health, the connection becomes clear.
Your skin, the largest organ in your body, constantly regenerates itself to stay healthy. This process of skin renewal is largely dependent on thyroid hormones, which, as we know, require iodine for their production. These hormones play a vital role in the growth and differentiation of skin cells, ensuring your skin remains supple and well-hydrated.
Thyroid hormones stimulate the production of sebum, an oily substance produced by your skin’s sebaceous glands. Sebum is what keeps your skin moisturized and prevents it from drying out. It acts as a barrier, protecting your skin from environmental factors and maintaining its moisture balance.
However, when your iodine levels are low, the production of thyroid hormones is reduced. This leads to less sebum production, resulting in dry, flaky skin. Your skin might lose its elasticity and appear dull or lifeless.
Additionally, low iodine levels might slow down the process of skin renewal, leading to older skin cells lingering on the surface for longer. This can result in rough, dry skin that’s more prone to irritation. (5)
