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The Link Between Collagen and Hypothyroidism: Naturopathic Approach to Rejuvenation

Updated: Jul 30

Collagen, the most abundant protein in the human body, plays a vital role in maintaining skin health, elasticity, and overall vitality within the body’s largest organ. Unknown to most, when coupled with hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by an underactive thyroid gland, collagen production and quality can be compromised, leading to a plethora of skin issues. In this article, Resilience Health and Wellness will explore the connection between collagen, hypothyroidism, and skin health, and explain how naturopathic approaches can help address these concerns.

Hypothyroidism and Skin Health


Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland fails to produce sufficient thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, growth, and energy levels in the body. While hypothyroidism affects various bodily functions, its impact on skin health is particularly noteworthy. 


Several skin issues are associated with hypothyroidism. Patients may experience flakey or dull skin due to decreased oil production or reduction in skin cell turnover due to reduced metabolism.  Edema, or puffiness generally seen around the eyes is caused by fluid retention associated with hypothyroidism.  Another common issue caused by hypothyroidism is hair loss due to impaired follicle health which causes brittle hair prone to breakage.  

The Role of Collagen in Skin Health


Collagen is the main structural protein found in the skin, providing strength, elasticity, and hydration. It forms a network of fibers that support the skin's structure and resilience, helping to maintain a smooth, firm, and youthful appearance. However, in hypothyroidism, collagen synthesis and quality can be impaired, contributing to skin issues such as wrinkles, sagging, and loss of elasticity.


The Impact of Hypothyroidism on Collagen Production


Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating collagen synthesis and turnover. In hypothyroidism, the decreased metabolic activity can lead to a reduction in collagen production, as well as alterations in the structure and composition of existing collagen fibers. This can result in several skin issues for patients who are diagnosed with hypothyroidism.  


Reduced collagen production can lead to a loss of skin firmness and elasticity, resulting in the formation of wrinkles, fine lines, and creases, particularly around the eyes, mouth, and forehead. Weakened collagen fibers can cause the skin to lose its firmness and resilience, leading to sagging and laxity, especially in areas prone to gravity, such as the cheeks, jowls, and neck. Changes in collagen quality can affect the skin's texture and tone, resulting in roughness, unevenness, and a dull complexion. 


Collagen plays a crucial role in the skin's ability to repair and regenerate itself. In hypothyroidism, impaired collagen synthesis can slow down the healing process, leading to delayed wound healing and an increased risk of scarring.


Naturopathic medicine offers a holistic approach to addressing skin issues associated with hypothyroidism by addressing the underlying causes of collagen imbalance and promoting rejuvenation of collagen within the body. Naturopathic practitioners may help support collagen rejuvenation by helping to optimize thyroid function, rebalance hormones, or through antioxidant and nutritional support.  

Optimizing Thyroid Function


Naturopathic doctors focus on optimizing thyroid function through dietary modifications, nutritional supplements, herbal remedies, and lifestyle interventions. By addressing underlying thyroid imbalances, they can help restore metabolic activity and support collagen synthesis and turnover.  Specific nutrients such as vitamin C, Zinc, and copper may be recommended due to their importance for collagen synthesis.  Other hormonal imbalances, such as estrogen dominance or cortisol dysregulation, can exacerbate collagen issues in hypothyroidism. For these disruptions, it may be recommended to include nutrients such as iodine or selenium.  Herbal remedies such as ashwagandha and bladderwrack may also be recommended to support hormone balance.

Nutritional Support


Nutritional deficiencies, such as vitamin C, zinc, and copper, can impair collagen synthesis and contribute to skin issues in hypothyroidism. Dietary modifications, supplementation, and intravenous nutrient therapy are sometimes necessary to ensure optimal nutrient status and support collagen production. A diet that incorporates protein rich foods such as lean meats, legumes, and dairy can provide amino acids necessary for collagen synthesis.  


Consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish, chia seeds, or flaxseeds can also help reduce inflammation and support skin health and collagen production.  Just as incorporation of healthy foods is important, it is also necessary to limit processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats to again help reduce inflammation which may impair collagen synthesis.  

Antioxidant Therapy

Oxidative stress and free radical damage can accelerate collagen degradation and contribute to premature aging in hypothyroidism.  Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage collagen fibers.  By preventing oxidative stress, antioxidants help preserve the structure and integrity of collagen molecules.  This allows them to function effectively in supporting tissues like skin, tendons and ligaments.  


Antioxidants can also stimulate the activity of enzymes involved in collagen synthesis.  These enzymes require cofactors like vitamin C and copper for their function, and antioxidants help maintain optimal levels of these cofactors, thereby enhancing collagen production.   Naturopathic medicine utilizes antioxidant-rich foods, supplements, and topical treatments to neutralize free radicals, protect collagen fibers, and promote skin health.

Naturopathic Medicine for Restoring Balance in Bellingham


Collagen plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health, elasticity, and resilience. However, in hypothyroidism, collagen production and quality can be compromised, leading to a range of skin issues such as dryness, dullness, wrinkles, and sagging.

Resilience Health and Wellness provides naturopathic approaches to offer holistic strategies and support collagen rejuvenation by addressing underlying thyroid imbalances, optimizing hormonal health, and promoting overall well-being. 


Through a combination of dietary modifications, nutritional supplementation, herbal remedies, and lifestyle interventions, naturopathic medicine at Resilience Health and Wellness helps individuals with hypothyroidism achieve healthy, radiant, and more youthful skin.


Ready to start living the life you always wanted---and get the skin you’ve always wanted? Start by getting connected with the Resilience team today!

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