Dry Skin from Thyroid

The first step is to consult a doctor and use medication for the thyroid problem. In this post, we are only addressing the visible signs of thyroid disease - and how skincare products can help with some of the visible signs. This does not fix the underlying issue. For the underlying issue, please consult a doctor. With the disclaimer out of the way, let's get started...

Thyroid disease makes skin dry. Dry skin is itchy. Dry skin breaks out. Skin is inflamed, irritated, sensitive and dehydrated. It needs attention. Itch is the body's way of saying this part of your body needs attention.

Why does your skin become dry when you have thyroid disease?

In a patient suffering from thyroid disease, the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormones regulate many processes in our body. Without much of this hormone to regulate the process, the processes in our body go a bit haywire.

Reason 1:
Skin cells are under stress. The stress causes the regular process of cellular turnover to slow down. Cellular turnover is the process of forming new cells in the deeper layers of skin, these cells travelling towards the top layer and eventually replacing the old cells in the top layer. When this process slows down, new cells are not getting formed at the same rate and old cells are stuck on the top layer of skin. This results in a dull and flaky appearance.

Reason 2:
Sebum production slows down. Sebum is produced by the oil glands in our skin. Sebum helps the skin in its barrier function. The barrier function of our skin prevents water loss from skin and protects skin from attacks from environmental irritants. Since the barrier function is compromised in patients suffering from thyroid disease, the skin loses water and is more prone to attacks from environmental nasties. This results in dehydrated skin plus breakouts on the skin.

How can we fix this dry skin that results from thyroid disease?

A permanent fix using the ways below is not possible as there is an underlying medical issue. What's outlined below can help provide comfort to the skin and reduce some of the visible signs.

1. No long hot showers. Hot long showers dry the skin even more.
2. If you are using indoor heating or air conditioning, use a humidifier. Artificial heating or cooling dries up the skin even more.
3. Moisturise your skin after shower/bath.
4. Drink 8 glasses of water in a day.
5. Use skincare products that hydrate your skin. Check the ingredients to make sure it has hydrating ingredients. Look for ingredients that absorb water/retain water - like humectants.
6. Facial oils can help. Check the ingredients to make sure they are the right oils for dry skin.
7. Skincare products that have ingredients that strengthen the skin barrier will be of great help to dry skin. Ingredients like ceramides strengthen the barrier.

If you are unsure what the ingredients in your skincare product do, we can help. Use the search bar on our website. Type in the name of the product and hit enter. We will decode the ingredients for you.