Both an underactive and an overactive thyroid can cause diffuse thinning, dry or brittle hair and thinning of the outer eyebrows. Hair loss may be the first sign that prompts a thyroid test.

At RD Clinic, care begins with a detailed clinical history, trichoscopy and targeted investigations where needed.

• A history including tiredness, weight change, periods, temperature sensitivity and family history
• Trichoscopy to look at the pattern of thinning
• A thyroid blood test when the history suggests it

Treating the thyroid condition is the first step, and hair usually improves gradually once thyroid levels are stable. Dr. Rachita Dhurat may add scalp and hair support, and will check for overlapping pattern hair loss, which is also common.

Hair recovery takes months because of the hair growth cycle. We monitor progress and adjust treatment. Suitability and expected outcomes are determined after clinical assessment. Outcomes vary according to diagnosis and individual response.