The Impact of Female Hormones on Skin
Sometimes, during the perimenopause and menopause, it’s the small changes that can make us feel like a slightly different version of ourselves. Hormone levels can affect the quality of your skin and for some women, these changes can lead to a negative self-image and reduced confidence.
How do our hormones impact the skin?
Oestrogen promotes collagen production, a protein that provides structure and elasticity to the skin. Higher collagen levels contribute to firmer and more youthful-looking skin. It also helps maintain the thickness of the skin by influencing the production of collagen and other components of the extracellular matrix.
Progesterone can influence skin hydration by affecting the activity of sweat and sebaceous glands. Like oestrogen, it also plays a role in maintaining collagen and elastic fibres in the skin, contributing to its strength and elasticity.
Testosterone, though present in smaller amounts in women, influences sebum production. Balanced serum levels contribute to skin hydration and may affect conditions such as acne.
What are the benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy on skin?
Collagen production: HRT, particularly with oestrogen, may help stimulate collagen production, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines associated with ageing. Enhanced collagen levels can also improve skin elasticity, leading to a more youthful and resilient complexion.
Hydration: HRT can contribute to maintaining skin moisture levels, addressing dryness and improving overall skin health.
Prevention of skin thinning: Oestrogen in HRT may help prevent the thinning of the skin, which is common in postmenopausal women and can contribute to increased fragility.
Reduction of menopausal skin changes: menopause is often associated with skin changes such as dryness, loss of elasticity, and increased wrinkles. HRT can help alleviate these symptoms.
Management of acne: HRT may help regulate sebum production, benefiting women experiencing acne or oily skin, especially during hormonal fluctuations.
Individualised skin benefits: the benefits of HRT on the skin are individualised, and responses can vary. Factors such as genetics, overall health, and lifestyle play significant roles.
In summary, oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone influence various aspects of skin health, and HRT, when carefully considered and prescribed, may offer benefits in maintaining skin vitality, reducing signs of ageing, and addressing specific skin concerns associated with hormonal changes. The decision to use HRT should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional. They can assess an individual’s health history, discuss potential risks and benefits, and tailor the treatment plan accordingly.
Click this link to find out more about how hormones can affect the skin, hair and nails – and what you can do to ease and improve symptoms.
Find out more about the different types of HRT available below.
