According to the New Zealand Dermatological Society (NZDS), symptoms that may be related to an overactive thyroid gland include increased skin smoothness and moistness, warm skin, generalized itching (pruritus), hives (urticaria), increased skin pigmentation and a flushing of the face and hands.nderactive Thyroid Effects. An underactive thyroid can cause a condition known as hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism can affect the skin in a number of ways. A condition known as carotenaemia may develop, characterized by the skin turning yellowish in color. The skin may also become cold, pale and dry.