If you’re taking levothyroxine and noticing more hair in your brush, you’re not alone. It’s a common and often distressing concern for many people managing their thyroid health. You started the medication to feel better, so it can be confusing and frustrating when a new issue like hair loss appears.
Let’s clear up the confusion right away. While it might seem counterintuitive, levothyroxine itself is not typically the direct cause of hair loss. In fact, the real culprit is often the very condition it’s treating—an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). Hair loss is a classic symptom of this disorder. The relationship between your medication, your hormone levels, and your hair follicles is a delicate one, and sometimes hair changes are part of the adjustment process.
Why Your Hair Might Seem Thinner on Medication
There are a couple of key reasons why you might experience hair shedding after starting levothyroxine. First, when your thyroid levels are significantly off, it can shock your system and push a large number of hair follicles into a resting phase. When you begin treatment, your body corrects itself, and those resting hairs can all shed at once as new growth begins. This is a normal process called telogen effluvium.
Second, if your dosage isn’t quite right, it can contribute to the problem. Both too much and too little thyroid hormone can lead to hair loss. This is why finding that perfect dosage with your doctor is so important for your overall well-being, including the health of your hair.
What You Can Do to Support Hair Health
Seeing your hair thin can be worrying, but there are positive steps you can take. The most critical action is to communicate openly with your doctor. They can run a simple blood test to check your Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) levels and ensure your dosage is optimal.
Be patient with your body. It can take several months for your hair cycle to normalize after your thyroid levels stabilize. In the meantime, treat your hair gently. Avoid harsh chemical treatments, high heat from styling tools, and tight hairstyles that pull on the roots. Eating a balanced diet rich in iron, zinc, and biotin can also provide the building blocks your body needs for healthy new hair growth.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
While some shedding is normal, it’s a good idea to check in with your healthcare provider if the hair loss is severe, continues for more than six months, or if you have other concerning symptoms. They can help you rule out other potential causes, like nutrient deficiencies, and make sure your treatment plan is on the right track.
In summary, levothyroxine is meant to correct the hormone imbalance that causes hair loss, not create it. Temporary shedding is often a sign that your body is readjusting. By working closely with your doctor to fine-tune your dosage and practicing good hair care, you can support your body through this transition and look forward to healthier hair ahead.