Hormones play a significant role in the health and appearance of our skin. They can influence various processes, including oil production, inflammation, collagen production, hydration of the skin and cell turnover. Imbalances in hormone levels can lead to skin issues such as acne, pigmentation, skin sensitivities, wrinkles, and premature aging. Understanding your hormones during the lifespan will help you maintain your skin health and prevent premature ageing and wrinkles.
Hormones | DC Aesthetics Injectables & Skin
Let’s explore how hormones affect the skin and contribute to these conditions:
Wrinkles and Aging
As we age, the production of essential skin components, such as collagen and elastin, decreases gradually around 1% a year over 30s. Collagen is responsible for maintaining the skin’s structure and elasticity, while elastin allows the skin to snap back into place after being stretched. Hormones, particularly estrogen, play a vital role in collagen synthesis. As hormone levels decline with age, the skin loses its ability to repair itself, leading to the formation of wrinkles, dryness and sagging skin.
Skin and aging| DC Aesthetics Injectables & Skin
Premature Aging
Chronic exposure to certain hormones and stress can also contribute to premature aging. For example, cortisol, the stress hormone, can lead to collagen breakdown and impair the skin’s natural repair processes, accelerating the aging process, eczema, rosacea and other sensitivities.
Acne
Acne is primarily caused by an increase in androgens, a group of male hormones that are present in both men and women. Androgens stimulate the sebaceous glands in the skin to produce more sebum (oil). Excess sebum can clog the pores, leading to the growth of bacteria and resulting in inflammation and acne breakouts.
Melasma
Melasma is a skin condition characterized by dark patches on the face, particularly on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy (also known as the “mask of pregnancy”), can trigger melasma. Estrogen and progesterone fluctuations during pregnancy can stimulate the production of melanin, leading to these hyperpigmented patches.
Melasma| DC Aesthetics Injectables & Skin
Menopause-related skin changes
During menopause, women undergo drastic changes in hormones – in particular the decline in estrogen levels. This result in sudden decrease 30% in 5y of menopause in collagen production which results in various skin changes, including increased dryness, loss of skin elasticity, increased dryness and saggy appearance.
Thyroid imbalances
An overactive or underactive thyroid can affect the skin as well. For instance, hypothyroidism can lead to dry and coarse skin, while hyperthyroidism may cause increased sweating and flushed skin.
What can we do to control our hormones and minimise fluctuations?
First of all, it’s essential to maintain a balanced lifestyle, including a healthy diet, stress management, and regular exercise, to help regulate hormone levels and support overall skin health.
Collagen and aging| DC Aesthetics Injectables & Skin
Proper skincare routine including cleanser, suitable for your skin moisturiser, Vitamin A, B and C active serums, as well as regular exfoliation, plays a significant role in maintaining healthy skin.
Collagen stimulating treatments such as bio-remodelling, PDO threads, Skin Boosters, Skin Needling, regular peels can also play an important role in maintaining healthy collagen and elastin levels in the skin, increasing cells turnover and preventing wrinkles and premature ageing.
Additionally, consulting with a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance on proper skin care routine and treatments for specific skin concerns related to hormone imbalances.
* Important: This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as a medical advice. Results vary with each patient thus individual consultation to address specific skin concerns is required. You can learn more about our treatments or book individual consultation with our Registered Nurse Diana via our website.
