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Dry Flaky Skin: Can A Low Thyroid Be The Culprit?

By Teri Dourmashkin

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Published: 04Jan2010
Word count: 586
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Many of us may remember when Oprah Winfrey made headlines by announcing she had a low thyroid on her nationally syndicated TV talk show. This was a good move because it brought awareness to a condition that may cause severe health issues if not treated.

Low thyroid or hypothyroidism is typically more common in women than men. Some women may first encounter a low thyroid during their peri-menopausal and menopausal years. However, younger people of both genders can experience a low thyroid as well.

Low thyroid can have a profound effect on just about every aspect of our bodies. This tiny butterfly gland located in the neck, regulates our metabolism and functions as our body's thermostat.

Symptoms of a low thyroid can include depression, cold hands and feet, carpal tunnel syndrome, hypoglycemia, weight gain, hair loss, arthritis, and can even affect the skin. Changes in skin can include facial puffiness, acne, rashes, eczema and dry, flaking skin. Less common conditions can include vitiligo and yellowing of the skin. However, dry skin is by far the most common.

If you suspect you might have a low thyroid, then it is advisable to see a competent physician as soon as possible. He or she will take the appropriate blood tests along with a physical examination. The usual course of treatment is thyroid medication prescribed by your physician. They may be of natural origin or synthetic.

Even with the proper treatment, your thyroid can vascillate because of several factors such as stress and even seasonal changes. Often your body will tell you when you are out of balance. Some may have a return of symptoms, such as dry skin or depression. It will likely be different for most.

If you are experiencing dry skin due to a thyroid condition even if you are on medication, there are steps you can take which can keep your skin moist and hydrated. The following are great tips for dry skin, even if you have a normally functioning thyroid.

Stay away from harsh detergent cleansers, particularly those which are very alkaline. Most foaming cleansers and soaps are very alkaline. Alkaline products can dry and strip your skin. Use a very gentle gel type cleanser with no harsh detergents or a milky natural cleanser with can help keep your skin hydrated.

Use only alcohol and fragrance free toners. Alcohol, such as SD Alcohol 40 can be very drying. Added fragrance can cause skin irritation which can further exacerbate dry skin conditions. Look for toners that include soothing and moisturizing ingredients. Aloe vera is an excellent natural moisturizer.

Use all natural anti-aging creams and moisturizers which use nourishing oils such as sesame seed oil, apricot kernel oil, jojoba and almond oil. Some heavier oils which you may want to try are macadamia nut oil, avocado oil and evening primrose oil. See which formulations feel best on your skin. Natural oils penetrate much better than petroleum based products which tend to sit on the skin. Petroleum, mineral oil and lanolin may actually cause drier skin in the long-run.

Exfoliate with gentle exfoliators. A once or twice a week exfoliating mask with glycolic or lactic acid is more than enough. Look for formulas which incorporate soothing and moisturizing ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, and hyaluronic acid. Many natural botanical extracts also have anti-inflammatory properties which may help to reduce puffiness.

Don't despair. Dry flaky skin which might stem from a low thyroid can be treated with both proper medical treatment and well formulated all natural skin care.

Dr. Teri Dourmashkin has a Doctorate in Health Education from Columbia University. She is the founder and president of La Vie Celeste Skin Care, Inc., a company dedicated to providing fabulous all natural anti-aging skin care. To learn more about skin care that promises more beautiful, and radiant looking skin, visit= > http://www.laviecelesteskincare.com .

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