Signs of thyroid disease can be seen in the skin; what is a common presentation?

• A. Oily and acne-prone skin
• B. Excessive sweating with heat intolerance
• C. Unusually dry skin and increased sensitivity
• D. Thickened, leathery skin on face

Answer: (C)

Thyroid hormones influence how the skin retains moisture and how the body generates heat. When thyroid activity is low, metabolism slows and sweat production decreases, leading to unusually dry, rough skin that can feel more sensitive. People may also notice cold intolerance, reflecting that increased sensitivity to cold. This combination—dry skin plus sensitivity to cold—is a common skin presentation of thyroid disease. In contrast, excessive sweating with heat intolerance fits an overactive thyroid, oily skin points to other hormonal or skin factors, and thickened, leathery facial skin isn’t a typical sign of thyroid disease.