How Hormones Impact Our Skin
Our skin is often seen as a reflection of our overall health, and one of the most significant influences on its appearance and condition is our hormones. Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate numerous bodily functions, including metabolism, growth, mood, and, notably, skin health. Whether it’s puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, hormonal fluctuations can cause a variety of skin concerns, ranging from acne to dryness and everything in between. In this blog, we’ll explore how hormones impact the skin and what you can do to keep your skin healthy through every stage of life.
The Role of Hormones in Skin Health
Hormones affect the skin in several ways. The key hormones influencing the skin include:
1. Oestrogen: This hormone is often associated with the ‘glow’ we see in youthful skin. It plays a crucial role in maintaining skin thickness, moisture levels, and elasticity. Oestrogen stimulates collagen production, keeping the skin firm and smooth. As oestrogen levels fluctuate or decline (such as during menopause), the skin may become drier, thinner, and more prone to wrinkles.
2. Progesterone: This hormone can affect skin texture by stimulating oil production. While it helps to maintain skin hydration, high levels of progesterone can also lead to clogged pores and acne, especially during certain phases of the menstrual cycle.
3. Testosterone: Although testosterone is more commonly associated with men, women also produce this hormone. Testosterone influences sebum (oil) production. When levels are balanced, it can keep the skin healthy and hydrated. However, when levels become elevated, such as during puberty or in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), it can result in increased oiliness and breakouts.
4. Cortisol: Known as the stress hormone, cortisol can have a significant impact on the skin. Chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels can trigger inflammation, breakouts, and a breakdown of collagen, leading to premature ageing. Cortisol can also exacerbate skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.
5. Thyroid Hormones: Thyroid hormones play a role in regulating the body’s metabolism, which affects skin health. An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can lead to dry, coarse, and flaky skin, while an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can cause the skin to become warm, moist, and sometimes itchy.
Common Hormonal Skin Issues
Hormonal changes can manifest in the skin in various ways. Here are some common skin issues linked to hormonal fluctuations:
- Acne: Hormonal acne is one of the most common skin concerns, especially among women. It often occurs around the chin and jawline, and it can be persistent during certain life stages, such as puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause. Increased sebum production, due to hormonal imbalances or fluctuations, can clog pores and lead to inflammation, resulting in acne breakouts.
-Dryness and Dehydration: As oestrogen levels decline, such as during menopause, the skin’s ability to retain moisture diminishes. This can cause dryness, fine lines, and a loss of elasticity. Women may notice their skin becoming thinner and drier as they age, requiring more intensive moisturising treatments to maintain hydration.
-Hyperpigmentation and Melasma: Hormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy or while taking oral contraceptives, can lead to an increase in melanin production. This can result in hyperpigmentation or melasma (often called the ‘mask of pregnancy’), where dark patches form on the skin, typically on the face. While it may fade after pregnancy or stopping contraceptives, it can persist and require specific treatments.
-Increased Sensitivity and Redness: Hormonal fluctuations can also make the skin more sensitive, leading to redness and irritation. Conditions like rosacea or eczema may flare up during periods of stress or hormonal change, as cortisol levels increase, causing inflammation.
Managing Hormonal Skin Issues
While hormonal changes are natural, managing their effects on the skin is possible with the right approach:
Cleansing and Exfoliation. Keeping the skin clean and exfoliated helps remove dead skin cells and excess oil, reducing the likelihood of breakouts. Opt for gentle, non-irritating products, especially if your skin is sensitive.
Hydration, using a moisturiser suited to your skin type is essential, especially if you experience dryness due to hormonal changes. Look for products with hyaluronic acid or ceramides to help maintain the skin’s moisture barrier.
Balancing Hormones Naturally. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management techniques such as meditation can help balance hormone levels and reduce the impact on your skin. Certain supplements, like omega-3 fatty acids, evening primrose oil, and zinc, may also support skin health.
Skincare Adaptation. Adapting your skincare routine as your skin changes is crucial. What works during your twenties may not be suitable later in life, so it’s important to adjust products and treatments to meet your skin’s evolving needs.
Hormones play a significant role in the health and appearance of our skin, and understanding how they affect it can help us make informed decisions about our skincare routines. Whether you’re dealing with acne during puberty, melasma during pregnancy, or dryness during menopause, knowing the root cause of these issues allows you to target them effectively. By embracing hormonal changes and adjusting your skincare approach, you can maintain healthy, radiant skin through every stage of life.
Beyond skin, into wellbeing
Grace x