Thyroid Hair Loss: Why Your Thyroid Might Be Pulling Your Hair Out

If you’ve noticed more hair on your pillow or in the shower, your thyroid could be to blame. The thyroid gland controls metabolism, and when it’s off‑balance it can mess with hair growth cycles. Both an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) and an overactive one (hyperthyroidism) can cause thinning, brittleness, or full‑on shedding.

What’s the connection?

Thyroid hormones help hair follicles stay in the growth phase. When hormone levels dip, follicles stop getting the nutrients they need and fall into the resting phase. That’s why people with untreated hypothyroidism often see diffuse thinning across the scalp. On the flip side, excess thyroid hormone can speed up the cycle, leading to fast shedding and weaker strands.

How to tell if thyroid is the culprit

First, look for other thyroid clues: fatigue, weight changes, cold intolerance, or mood swings. A simple blood test for TSH, T3, and T4 will confirm if your thyroid is out of whack. If the test shows abnormal levels, it’s worth talking to a doctor about medication adjustments.

But you don’t have to wait for a prescription to take action. Start with a balanced diet rich in iodine, selenium, and zinc – nutrients that support thyroid health. Foods like seaweed, Brazil nuts, and pumpkin seeds are easy additions to meals.

Gentle scalp care matters too. Avoid harsh shampoos and heat styling; opt for a mild, sulfate‑free cleanser and let your hair air‑dry when possible. A weekly scalp massage with a few drops of rosemary oil can boost circulation and signal follicles to stay active.

If you’re already on Synthroid (levothyroxine) and still losing hair, you might need a dosage tweak or an alternative. Options like WP Thyroid, Nature-Throid, or even a compounded preparation can provide a more natural hormone mix. Checking out “6 Alternatives to Synthroid for Thyroid Hormone Replacement” can give you a quick overview of what’s out there.

For those looking at hair‑specific treatments, don’t dismiss options beyond the usual minoxidil. Over‑the‑counter hair loss pills often contain finasteride or dutasteride, but they work best when the thyroid issue is under control. The article “9 Alternatives to Propecia: Exploring Your Options for Hair Loss” walks through natural and prescription routes that complement thyroid therapy.

Stress management is another hidden factor. High cortisol can worsen thyroid dysfunction, leading to a loop of shedding and fatigue. Simple habits – a daily walk, short meditation, or yoga – can keep stress hormones in check.

Finally, stay consistent with follow‑up labs. Thyroid levels can shift with diet, weight changes, or new meds, so regular testing helps you catch imbalances before they affect your hair again.

Bottom line: thyroid problems are a common, treatable cause of hair loss. By checking your hormone levels, adjusting medication if needed, eating nutrient‑dense foods, and treating your scalp gently, you can give your follicles the chance to grow strong again. Keep an eye on the signs, talk to your doctor, and use the resources on this site to explore medication alternatives and hair‑care tips tailored for thyroid‑related shedding.