Thyroid Hair Loss- 7 Suggestions for Better, Healthier Hair.

Many patients diagnosed with Graves’ Disease and Hyperthyroidism experience numerous devastating symptoms related directly to the disease (as a result of the disrupted thyroid hormone production) or as a result of the medication they have been prescribed to treat the disorder (considered as a typical side effect).

One of these symptoms is hair loss- very frustrating and frightening symptom not only for women, but also for men, regardless if they are diagnosed with hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. However, not all people suffering from a thyroid disorder experience this symptom, but if you notice more hair under the shower or on your brush chances are that this is due to Graves’ disease or your medication, specifically overdose of Methimazole (Tapazole)/ Propylthiouracil.

The good news is that after your thyroid test results become within the normal ranges your hair condition will improve and grow back on its own, in most cases. Many other symptoms will also disappear and the hair loss is not an exception. Unfortunately, it may take months and many people are impatient to get their hair back, especially women. So, what can you do to improve the situation even while on thyroid medication?

First, contact your physician and discuss if this is the right medication dosage for you. Usually the medication could be adjusted a few times, until the doctor finds out what is the  right dosage for you.

Second, contact a dermatologist to conduct an evaluation and see if you have some nutritional deficiencies that can be corrected with supplements. In fact, there are a few supplements proven to help hair loss in thyroid patients:

1. Vitamin E– it is an important antioxidant that counterbalances free radicals in the body. It is found in foods like avocado, broccoli, almonds, green leafy vegetables and most of them act also as natural thyroid hormone inhibitors; thus, they have dual benefits for hyperthyroid patients when consumed in a raw form. Vitamin E can be taken also as a supplement, or applied directly to skin and hair.
2. Vitamin A– even though the opinions about the effect of this vitamin on hair loss are contradictory, I personally have used it in hair masks with an excellent result. Applied externally, Vitamin A will improve almost any skin condition (including eczema and psoriasis) because of the retinol it contains. Naturally it is found in many foods like eggs, whole milk, butter and meat. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) dosage for adults is about 1300 mcg/day. ForeverLiving.com already has a product, which is a combination of both Vitamins, + Selenium.
3. Biotin is actually water soluble Vitamin B complex (known also as vitamin H or coenzyme R). It is found, again, in foods like avocados, egg yolks, liver, brewer’s yeast, bananas etc. The recommended dose for people suffering from hair loss is 5000 mcg daily (and some people take it twice, as it doesn’t have side effects). It is also known to convert the fatty acids into energy and in general improves the performance of the nervous system. As a good side effect it may approve also the condition of your nails.
4. Nettle Tea– it is well known as a folk remedy for all hair problems. You can drink the tea every day instead of water, no contraindications.
5. Evening Primrose oil can be applied externally as a scalp massage, hair mask or conditioning treatment to nurture hair follicles, to improve the circulation of the blood to the scalp and to promote healthy hair growth. It also can be taken orally in the form of capsules. For hair masks, applied a few hours before washing the hair, it can be combined with jojoba oil, or almond oil and a few drops of rosemary oil and lavender oil.
6. Mira Hair Oil- this is actually a combination of an ancient northern Indian herb, miracle fruit and 12 other herbs, which are believed to double the rate of hair growth, stop hair loss and hair thinning. When it comes to secrets of the beautiful Indian hair, it definitely calls for my attention. The oil seems a little pricey, however, if this is what it takes to get my hair back I will not hesitate even a minute. The supply lasts for 60 days, and there is no need to use a conditioner. The good thing is that suppliers give also 60 days guarantee for their product and also provide a free herbal shampoo with every purchase. At least, it is worth the try. To access more details about Mira Miracle Oil, click here:
7. Biotique Bhringraj Therapeutic Oil or Brahmi Oil – Ayurvedic medicine is often considered one of the best when it comes to treating your hair or scalp. Use as prescribed on the label.

Here is a hair mask, which I found in folk medicine and have used for years, it is very simple to make at home and you can find every ingredient in your refrigerator:

 Hair mask for any type of hair:

 1 yolk

1 table spoon olive oil

1 table spoon yogurt (regular, no fat- free, no fruits)

1/2 t spoon fresh lemon juice, (I mean fresh)

1 table spoon honey

3-4 drops rubbing alcohol, or any alcohol (for the purpose of warming up the roots of your hair and to allow the ingredients to act faster).

Mix all ingredients and apply generously to  dry hair. Cover with a plastic cap and stay as long as you can (the more the better). Wash as usual. Repeat once or twice a week.

Additional suggestions:  Brush your hair a few times before going to be bed- the brush acts as a massager and improves the blood circulation to your blood. Also- try to avoid stress to the best you can, because this also contributes to your hair problems.

If you have a special hair mask, or hair treatment you want to share, please do so. We can always learn from each other’s experience.