Hypothyroidism and skin blemishes
Hypothyroidism is the most common form of thyroid disease. The condition causes a slowing of thyroid activity resulting in various forms of dysfunction including insomnia, sensitivity to cold, digestive issues, cognitive dysfunction, difficulty losing weight, and skin conditions.
One of the most important complications of hypothyroidism is skin changes such as dryness, itching, allergies, acne and blemishes on the skin. Hypothyroidism can affect the health and freshness of the skin in many ways. One of the biggest and most challenging skin problems is blemishes that appear on the face.
A blemish is any type of mark, spot, discoloration, or flaw that appears on the skin. Blemishes on the face may be unsightly and emotionally upsetting. Acne is a common condition. Acne can appear as: pimples, blackheads and whiteheads. Acne is caused when sebum (oil), bacteria, or dirt clogs hair follicles. Acne can sometimes leave dark spots, pockmarks, or scarring on the skin. These are also types of blemishes. Usually, treating skin blemishes that result from acne is time consuming and requires patience.
Even though the most notable effects of acne affect external appearance, the cause is frequently internal. Hormone imbalance is perhaps the greatest contributor of acne. The thyroid is an integral component of hormone production, regulation, and function meaning that it plays an important role in the occurrence of acne and many other conditions.
How does hypothyroidism affect acne and skin blemishes?
One leading cause of hypothyroidism is an autoimmune thyroid condition called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Hashimoto’s causes an increase of Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (also known as TPOAb or TPO or anti TPO) and Thyroglobulin Antibodies (or TGAb and anti-TG). An excess of either substance can indicate that the immune system has turned against the thyroid and is actively attacking it.
One of the first studies to investigate the connection between thyroid disease and acne was conducted in 2009. The study investigated the occurrence of skin-related symptoms such as acne among thyroid patients. Of the 220 participants, nearly 57% experienced skin issues including acne, dermatosis, hives (chronic urticaria), and severe itchiness (pruritus). Further studies have shown that greater prevalence of thyroid antibodies, typically seen in those with Hashimoto’s, increases the risk of skin conditions. As a result, it can be argued that there is a direct link between thyroid autoimmune disorders (hypothyroidism), acne and blemishes on the skin.
References
https://www.healthline.com/health/what-are-blemishes#types
https://goodglow.co/hypothyroidism-hashimotos-thyroid-acne
https://www.nahypothyroidism.org/can-thyroid-disease-cause-acne/
