Can Hormone Imbalance Cause Skin Problems?
In every human being, there are chemical messengers that are responsible for the coordination of activities of all the cells and tissues in the body. These chemical messengers are called hormones, and although they are produced by different glands, they can circulate through the entire body to trigger different effects in their respective areas.
Different hormones have different effects and functions in the body, most of which are beneficial. There can be situations where a persons’ hormone levels are higher or lower than normal, or there can be a persistent imbalance in hormonal levels. When such happens, it can cause problems in the body, and sometimes cause visible effects on the skin. Always make sure you visit us or give us a call you if you notice any unusual symptom on your skin.
Hormones and acne
Acne is a common skin problem caused by hormones. Acne results when the hair follicles on the skin, responsible for releasing sweat and oil, becomes blocked with oil and dead skin cells. These trapped materials can then become inflamed and infected with bacteria, causing spots and pimples. Your chances of having acne can be increased by hormones because it is the hormone that is responsible for the production of oil. This means an increase in oil production due to hormonal influence, increases the chances of your follicles being blocked.
The hormone that is involved in acne is testosterone. More oil production and high risk of acne are as a result of high levels of testosterone. Although testosterone is mostly seen as a male hormone, women can also produce it as well. The only difference is that its level is much higher in men than in women, and this is why boys deal with acne when they hit puberty more than girls.
Statistically, boys end up with more skin problems related to acne than girls. In women, the effects of the hormone, testosterone, is milder because it is balanced out by the female hormones like estrogen. Nonetheless, towards the end of each menstrual cycle in women, the levels of the female hormone drops, and the effects of testosterone is felt more. This is why some women develop skin problems like spots and acne days before their period.
While hormonal acne in women in their 20s especially is linked to the menstrual cycle, the spots can also be signs of an underlying condition causing hormonal imbalance. An example is a situation whereby a woman has higher levels of the male hormone testosterone, due to polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), causing skin problems as well as irregular periods.
Menopause and how it affects your skin
The menstrual cycle and hormones are not just responsible for certain skin conditions in women; menopause can also trigger some skin problems in women. When a woman gets to the stage of menopause, the ovaries stop producing the hormone that helps to control ovulation and menstrual cycle. When these hormones are still in production, they affect other parts of the body as well, so when production stops, its effect on the other parts of the body will be lost and will take some time before the body adjusts to it. During menopause, the balance of hormones in the body fluctuates a lot but will become steady with time.
The major effect of menopause on our skin is as a result of the drop in estrogen levels. The hormone estrogen is responsible for the stimulation and production of collagen on the skin. It is also involved in the production of skin oil or sebum, but not with the negative effect that comes with testosterone. Lack of estrogen during menopause can cause drying of the skin, and loss of elasticity, as noticed in several women.
Treatment option
Since it has been discovered that some of these skin problems in women are linked to an imbalance of hormones, and decrease in estrogen levels due to menopause, the symptoms can be treated with hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Sadly, HRT is not suitable for everyone, and most women will only want to take them for a short time until their hormone levels become steady.
Secondly, changing your skincare routine can also help with relieving the menstrual skin problems. Investing in a good moisturiser to hydrate and protect your skin will be helpful. Take it a step further by eating well-balanced meals and exercising regularly. These activities will improve the condition of your skin by supplying it with nutrients and boosting blood circulation.
Finally, do not hesitate to report to your dermatologist if you notice any unusual skin condition. Consulting them will ensure that its cause is discovered and if it is linked to hormonal imbalance or not. If you are residing in London and find out any skin problem, consult with dermatologist at Clear Skin Clinic to protect your skin.
