Hashimoto's disease can lead to a decrease in free thyroid hormones (FT3 and FT4), which play a crucial role in nourishing hair. When the levels of these hormones are insufficient, it can negatively affect hair health. In a situation where the concentration of thyroid hormones is insufficient, sebum secretion from the sebaceous glands decreases and the hair dries out.
Moreover, the rate of hair growth is delayed. In the case of hypothyroidism, taking hormonal drugs or antibiotics can cause hair to become brittle. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies also adversely affect their condition. Hair thins, shortens, and becomes thin, soft, and dry. In the course of hypothyroidism – as a result of too low concentration of the hormones T3 and T4, thyroid alopecia may occur, in the course of which there is atrophy of hair follicles.
It also happens that women suffering from Hashimoto's may complain of excessive hair growth, which is characteristic of men. This abnormality is called hirsutism. This condition arises from a reduced concentration of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which normally binds androgens (male hormones) and estrogens (female hormones). Excessive hair growth may occur on the nipples, back, arms, chin, inner thighs, hands, cheeks, and jawline.
