What does the shape of the eyebrows reveal about our health?

Eyebrows can provide a window into your overall health, offering clues about whether you're eating well or getting enough sleep, a team of health experts say.

Here are a group of health conditions that may be revealed by the shape of the eyebrows:

1. Hypothyroidism

Thinning eyebrows, especially towards the edges, can indicate a hormonal condition known as hypothyroidism, says cosmetic dermatologist Sarah Jenkins, a former general practitioner.

“Eyebrow hair loss is usually a slow-onset symptom of the condition,” she explains. “It can also leave the skin around the eyebrows dry and flaky.”

Hypothyroidism occurs when the gland does not produce enough hormones, which can cause many body functions to slow down and change how fat is processed.

Thyroid problems can lead to high cholesterol and clogged arteries.

2. Hormonal change

Hormones, particularly estrogen and testosterone, play a major role in hair growth. During the first half of a woman’s menstrual cycle (leading up to ovulation), high estrogen levels can promote hair growth, which can make eyebrows appear fuller.

However, after ovulation, which precedes your period, progesterone rises and estrogen falls, which can lead to hair loss or slow growth.

Experts explained that during pregnancy, some women experience eyebrow growth spurts, due to high levels of estrogen, while hormonal changes after childbirth can lead to eyebrow hair loss.

3. Psoriasis

Some skin conditions, such as psoriasis, can also change the shape of your eyebrows.

The NHS says psoriasis causes scaly patches of skin, usually on the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back, but can appear anywhere.

“The skin around your eyebrows will become rough, itchy and flaky, which can cause hair growth to stop,” says Sarah.

4. Alopecia

If you notice small patches of hair loss in your eyebrows, you may have alopecia areata.

Experts said this autoimmune disease can also appear on the body, including the beard, eyebrows, eyelashes or body hair, including pubic hair.

This happens when cells mistakenly attack hair follicles, preventing them from producing more hair.

5. Malnutrition

General eyebrow thinning may indicate that you are not eating enough healthy foods.

“Nutrient deficiencies lead to thinning eyebrows, hair, nails and skin,” says Sarah.

Eating almonds and pumpkin seeds, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins, can promote healthier eyebrow growth.

6. Insomnia

Insomnia can negatively affect your eyebrows. Lack of sleep can disrupt your body's natural repair cycle, affecting hair growth.

7. Microbiome disorders

An imbalance in your skin microbiome can lead to skin conditions like dermatitis, which can affect your eyebrows, causing them to flake or thin.