Graves’ Disease and Hair Health
If you are here you probably already know or suspect your may have Graves’ disease. Grave's disease is an autoimmune condition that causes hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid. This excess production of thyroid hormones can affect many aspects of your health, including your hair. Which is quite often the first symptom you will notice. In this blog, we’ll explore how Graves’ disease impacts hair health, the dietary and nutrient strategies to support hair growth, and the external care routines that can help you maintain a healthy scalp and strong strands
The Internal Mechanisms: Hyperthyroidism, Autoimmune Activity, and Hair Loss
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Hyperthyroidism and Hair Cycle Disruption
Thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) are crucial regulators of the hair growth cycle. In Graves’ disease, elevated levels of these hormones can accelerate the cycle, pushing hair follicles through the anagen (growth) phase too quickly. This leads to hair entering the telogen (resting) phase prematurely, causing excessive shedding and thinning, often referred to as telogen effluvium. -
Autoimmune Inflammation and Scalp Health
As with other autoimmune conditions, Graves’ disease involves an overactive immune system that can lead to chronic inflammation. This systemic inflammation may contribute to hair thinning and can disrupt the scalp’s environment, making it prone to dryness, irritation, or other scalp complaints. -
Stress and Nutritional Deficiencies
Hyperthyroidism often places significant metabolic stress on the body, increasing energy demands and potentially depleting essential nutrients. Poor absorption of nutrients like iron, zinc, and selenium—critical for healthy hair—is common, further exacerbating hair issues.
A nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory diet is essential for supporting hair health when living with Graves’ disease.
1. Key Nutrients to Focus On:
- Zinc: Helps regulate thyroid function and supports hair follicle repair. Include pumpkin seeds, cashews, and oysters in your diet.
- Selenium: Reduces oxidative stress and inflammation associated with thyroid overactivity. Found in Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, and fish.
- Iron: Essential for oxygen transport to hair follicles. Graves’ disease can increase the risk of anemia, so include spinach, lentils, and lean meats in your meals.
- Vitamin D: Often deficient in Graves’ disease, Vitamin D supports follicle cycling and immune regulation. Get sun exposure or consume fortified dairy, eggs, and mushrooms.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Help reduce inflammation and support scalp health. Add fatty fish, chia seeds, and walnuts to your diet.
- B Vitamins: Biotin, niacin, and B12 play a vital role in hair strength and growth. Eggs, whole grains, and leafy greens are excellent sources.
- Antioxidants (Vitamin C and E): Protect hair follicles from oxidative damage caused by hyperthyroidism. Include berries, citrus fruits, nuts, and seeds.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Diet Tips:
- Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods.
- Avoid common triggers like processed sugars, refined carbs, and trans fats.
- Limit iodine-rich foods (like seaweed) if advised by your healthcare provider, as iodine can exacerbate hyperthyroidism in some cases.
- Balance blood sugar levels by eating smaller, frequent meals with protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates.
3. Stay Hydrated:
Hyperthyroidism can lead to increased sweating and dehydration, which can contribute to scalp dryness. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Hair thinning and scalp issues from Graves’ disease require a gentle, nourishing haircare routine to minimize breakage and maintain scalp health.
1. Use a Mild Shampoo
Opt for a sulfate-free shampoo that cleanses without stripping the scalp. Look for soothing ingredients like colloidal oatmeal and aloe vera, available in products from Halo Haircare, to support a healthy scalp barrier.
2. Hydrate the Scalp
Dryness and flaking are common with hyperthyroidism. Use our Revitalise scalp serum with moisturizing and calming ingredients, such as Saccharide Isomerate or glycerin, to restore hydration.
3. Strengthen Hair Strands
Use weekly deep-conditioning treatments with keratin, argan oil, or protein complexes to nourish brittle hair and improve elasticity. Reinforcement Treatment works as a twofer to mimics hair natural composition to restore hair health and contains plant-based vasodilation to increase blood flow locking hair in the anagen phase for longer.
4. Scalp Stimulation
Stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles with regular scalp massages. Pair this with Halo’s Revitalise Serum, which contains rosemary and ginseng extracts, known to support healthy hair growth.
5. Heat-Free Styling
Avoid heat damage and tight hairstyles that can exacerbate hair loss. Halo’s 100% mulberry silk heat-free styling tools, such as the curling rods and bun bombs, are ideal for protecting delicate hair while achieving beautiful waves and curls.
6. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
If hair thinning persists, consider using LLLT devices. Halo’s LLLT caps with 470nm, 660nm, and 850nm wavelengths help stimulate follicles, promote regrowth, and reduce inflammation, making them a valuable addition to your routine.
7. Limit Harsh Treatments
Chemical treatments, such as bleaching or perming, should be minimized to prevent further weakening of hair strands
Managing hair health with Graves’ disease requires a holistic approach, combining dietary improvements, stress management, and external care. While dietary changes and topical treatments can show significant results, hair recovery often takes time due to the slow nature of the hair growth cycle. Be consistent with your efforts and seek professional guidance from a healthcare provider or trichologist for personalized support.
With the right care and commitment, you can mitigate the effects of Graves’ disease on your hair and restore vitality to your strands. Explore Halo Haircare’s trichology-approved products at www.halohaircare.co.nz to begin your journey to healthier hair today!
