At Luma MD Med Spa, we have conversations on a daily basis on the topic of hormones, their role in our skin health, and how Dr. Elsbree tests and manages our hormones to find that perfect balance. Our skin is the body's largest organ, serving as a protective barrier against external elements and environmental stressors. It plays a crucial role in maintaining our overall health and well-being. While skincare routines and external factors like diet and environmental conditions play a role in skin health, one often underestimated player in the game is hormones. These powerful chemical messengers are responsible for regulating various bodily functions, including the condition of our skin. In this blog post, we'll dive into the fascinating world of hormones and their impact on skin health.
The Hormone-Skin Connection
Hormones are chemical messengers that travel through the bloodstream, orchestrating a symphony of bodily functions. They influence everything from metabolism and growth to mood and reproduction. Unsurprisingly, they also have a significant impact on skin health. The skin contains a variety of hormone receptors, which means that changes in hormone levels can affect its appearance and behavior.
1. Puberty and Acne
The teenage years are infamous for the onset of acne. This is primarily due to the surge of androgen hormones during puberty. Androgens stimulate the sebaceous glands in the skin to produce more oil, leading to clogged pores and the development of acne. This is why many teenagers struggle with oily skin and breakouts. At Luma, we have many tools in our belt to tackle breakouts, VI Peel, BBL's Forever Clear, and a combination of Hydrafacial and Glow2 Oxygen facials.
2. Menstrual Cycle and Skin Changes
Women often notice changes in their skin's appearance throughout their menstrual cycle. Estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate during different phases of the cycle, which can lead to changes in skin texture, oiliness, and the occurrence of acne. Some women experience breakouts just before menstruation, known as hormonal acne. Keeping up with regular facials can help to keep the skin exfoliated and hydrated during these cyclical changes. Regular facials can be done on a monthly basis.
3. Pregnancy and Melasma
Pregnancy brings about a surge in hormones, particularly estrogen. While this hormone is vital for maintaining a healthy pregnancy, it can also trigger an increase in melanin production, leading to a condition known as melasma. Melasma causes dark patches to appear on the skin, primarily on the face. It's a prime example of how hormonal fluctuations can directly impact skin pigmentation. At Luma, we pretreat our melasma clients with a pigment lifter containing tranexamic acid for three weeks and follow up with a Halo Laser treatment. Post-healing is followed up with a continued use of the tranexamic acid product.
Melasma is a condition that needs to be managed and a good sunscreen is vital to help keep things under control.
4. Menopause and Skin Aging
As women enter menopause, estrogen levels significantly decrease. Estrogen plays a key role in maintaining skin elasticity and moisture. Its decline can lead to reduced collagen production, causing the skin to become thinner, drier, and more prone to wrinkles. This is why menopausal and post-menopausal women often notice accelerated signs of skin aging.
Dr. Elsbree has a bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) program and thoroughly educates his patients in the field of BHRT.
5. Stress and Hormonal Balance
Stress is a common factor that can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones in the body. The stress hormone cortisol, when chronically elevated, can lead to increased oil production, inflammation, and even exacerbate conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Managing stress through relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga, exercise, and proper self-care can positively impact skin health. Infrared saunas are one of our favorite ways to get deep detoxification, improve circulation, get a collagen boost, and reduce inflammation in the skin.
Understanding the intricate relationship between hormones and skin health is essential for developing effective skincare routines and addressing specific skin concerns. Hormones influence everything from acne to aging, and their effects can vary greatly depending on factors like age, gender, and overall health. While we can't completely control our hormone levels, we can make informed choices about our skincare, diet, and lifestyle to help support a healthy hormonal balance and, in turn, promote radiant and glowing skin at every stage of life.
Remember, consultations are available by appointment with Dr. Elsbree for managing hormonal skin issues effectively.