Hashimoto’s and Hair Health
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition that impacts the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). This condition not only affects energy levels, metabolism, and overall health but can also significantly impact your hair. In this blog, we’ll explore the internal mechanisms of Hashimoto’s, how they affect your hair, and practical steps you can take both internally and externally to support your hair health.
The Internal Mechanisms: Thyroid, Immune System, and Hair Health
1. Thyroid Hormones and Hair Growth
The thyroid gland produces hormones (T3 and T4) that regulate numerous bodily functions, including the hair growth cycle. These hormones play a vital role in the anagen (growth) phase of hair follicles. In Hashimoto’s, when thyroid hormone levels are low, the hair cycle can become disrupted, causing hair to enter the resting (telogen) phase prematurely. This results in hair thinning and increased shedding, known as telogen effluvium.
2. Autoimmune Attack and Inflammation
In Hashimoto’s, the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland. This autoimmune response generates systemic inflammation, which can further exacerbate hair thinning. Chronic inflammation also affects the scalp’s environment, potentially leading to irritation, dryness, or even secondary scalp concerns.
3. Nutrient Absorption Issues
Hypothyroidism can reduce stomach acid production and slow digestion, leading to poor absorption of essential nutrients like iron, zinc, selenium, and biotin. These nutrients are critical for maintaining hair structure, strength, and growth.
Diet and Nutrients to Support Hair Health with Hashimoto’s
Supporting your hair health with Hashimoto’s begins with addressing nutrient deficiencies and reducing inflammation.
1. Key Nutrients to Focus On:
- Iodine: Essential for thyroid hormone production, but moderation is key as excess iodine can aggravate autoimmune conditions. Include natural sources like seaweed in small amounts.
- Selenium: Helps reduce thyroid inflammation and supports enzyme functions in hair follicles. Found in Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, and fish.
- Zinc: Critical for hair repair and follicle health. Include pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, and fortified cereals in your diet.
- Iron: Vital for oxygen delivery to hair follicles. Choose lean meats, spinach, lentils, and fortified grains.
- Biotin: Strengthens keratin infrastructure. Found in eggs, almonds, and sweet potatoes.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Reduce inflammation and improve scalp health. Found in fatty fish like salmon, chia seeds, and walnuts.
- Vitamin D: Often deficient in people with Hashimoto’s, Vitamin D supports follicle cycling. Spend time in the sun or include fortified dairy and mushrooms in your meals.
- Antioxidants (Vitamin C and E): Protect hair follicles from oxidative stress. Include berries, citrus fruits, nuts, and seeds.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Diet Tips:
- Opt for whole, unprocessed foods.
- Include plenty of colorful vegetables to combat oxidative stress.
- Avoid inflammatory triggers like gluten (a common sensitivity in Hashimoto’s), processed sugars, and trans fats.
- Maintain stable blood sugar levels by consuming balanced meals with protein, fats, and complex carbs.
3. Hydration Matters:
Dehydration can lead to a dry scalp and brittle hair. Aim for 8–10 glasses of water daily.
Haircare Routine for External Support
External care is just as important for managing hair loss and maintaining a healthy scalp. Here’s a haircare routine tailored for those with Hashimoto’s:
1. Gentle Cleansing
Use a shampoo free from harsh sulfates and parabens, such as one enriched with soothing ingredients to reduce inflammation and maintain the scalp’s natural barrier. These ingredients are ideal for a sensitive scalp, which is common in hypothyroidism. Explore gentle cleansers on Halo Haircare.
2. Scalp Hydration
Apply a scalp serum containing hydrating and soothing ingredients like Red Clover, Saccharide Isomerate, Liquorice and Green Tea. These can combat the dryness often associated with Hashimoto’s.
3. Regular Scalp Massage
Promote blood circulation and hair growth by massaging your scalp 3–5 times a week using light, circular motions. Pair this with Halo’s Revitalise Serum, which includes stimulating ingredients like rosemary and ginseng extracts.
4. Strengthening Treatments
Incorporate weekly hair masks with nourishing ingredients like keratin, argan oil, and protein complexes to repair weak or brittle strands. Our Reinforcement acts as a twofer to rebuild the hair structure and ignite hair growth through plant-based vasodilation.
5. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
Consider LLLT caps for stimulating hair growth. With the combination of 470nm, 660nm, and 850nm wavelengths available in Halo’s devices, you can enhance follicle activity and reduce inflammation.
6. Silk Styling Tools
Avoid breakage by using heat-free styling tools, like Halo’s 100% mulberry silk curling rods and fishbone stylers, which are gentle on delicate hair and help maintain volume without heat damage.
7. Avoid Over-Styling
Minimize chemical treatments, excessive heat, and tight hairstyles that put unnecessary strain on your hair.
The Bigger Picture: Patience and Consistency
Improving hair health with Hashimoto’s requires a combination of internal and external strategies. While dietary changes and topical care can yield significant improvements, remember that hair responds slowly to treatment. Be patient and consistent, and consult with a healthcare professional or trichologist for personalized guidance.
Hashimoto’s might challenge your hair health, but with the right approach, you can nurture a strong, healthy mane. Explore our range of trichology-approved products at www.halohaircare.co.nz to start building a healthy foundation for your hair.