Why Does Hormonal Imbalance Affect The Skin?

Introduction

The skin shows changes in response to the fluctuation of estrogen and testosterone levels. The skin shows changes in response to the fluctuation of estrogen and testosterone levels. Skin also changes in response to climate, sickness, or ailments.

How Be Hormones Responsible for Oily Skin?

Sebaceous glands are small glands responsible for many skin changes around puberty and later life. The sebaceous gland secretes an oily substance called sebum. In the initial stages of puberty, the sebaceous gland produces more sebum, with the most secretion between 15 to 35 years. The sebaceous gland consists of many receptors which are influenced by sex hormones. Sebaceous glands are most affected by androgens which are the male sex hormone like testosterone and are present in both males and females.

Androgen causes an increase in sebum production during puberty, and androgen binds to the sebaceous receptor, resulting in oily skin. Sebum secretion may vary through the menstrual cycle. The role of estrogen in the sebaceous gland needs to be clarified. Other factors also influence sebum production; some factors are:

• Genetic.

• Seasonal changes.

• Excessive sun exposure.

• Overuse or misuse of skin care products.

How Do Levels of Estrogen Affect the Skin?

Estrogen hormone plays a significant role in the skin's overall health, but its effect on the sebaceous gland is unknown. Estrogen regulates:

• Enhanced collagen production.

• Skin thickening.

• Skin hydration.

• Wound healing.

• Enhance skin barrier.

Some studies show sensitive skin during menstruation, suspected to be due to a reduced estrogen level.

How Is the Menstrual Cycle Cause Acne?

When the excess levels of androgen increase the production and secretion of sebum, it may contain dead skin in the pore resulting in blockage. Due to blockage, the sebum gets clogged, resulting in acne formation. In addition, sebum-filled pores are an ideal environment for developing bacteria. Which colonizes the pores, worsens, and results in inflammatory acne.

Acne, called acne vulgaris, is the most common skin ailment during the menstrual cycle. However, the formation of hormonal acne could be clearer. Some theory shows that estrogen production is decreased before and during the menstrual cycle, which produces an anti-sebum effect. So in the absence of estrogen, androgen enhances sebum production, which causes increased pore clogging and forms a habitable environment for developing P. acnes.

Women with menstrual cycles with increased levels of androgen, like people affected with PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome), will be more prone to acne, excess hair growth, and female pattern hair loss. Trans men will have increased acne during the initial stages of intake of testosterone, but this condition should be decreased after long-term use of testosterone. Some people see a reduction in acne breakout during hormonal birth control pills intake, which is why some contraceptives are used to treat acne.

How Menopause Affects the Texture of the Skin?

As a woman enters menopause, there will be a transition stage where all the hormonal level drops, which result in many changes in the skin. Some changes are:

1. Due to a reduction in estrogen level, the skin may become dry and itchy.

2. Due to reduced estrogen levels and enhanced testosterone levels, it may cause acne.

3. Formation of wrinkles and sagging due to reduced estrogen and collagen levels.

What Is the Skin Condition Caused Due to Hormonal Imbalance?

Some common side effects of hormonal imbalance are:

1. Acne:

Estrogen and progesterone are the main hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle. The menstrual cycle enhances the secretion of sebum, which results in clogging of the pores and results in ace. In men, excessive testosterone levels affect the oil glands and secrete increased sebum, which results in acne breakouts. Usually, hormonal aces on the forehead, chin, and nose may be cystic and cause pain.

2. Under-Eye Dark Circle:

The person may have a hormonal issue if there's a persistent presence of an under-eye dark circle. It's not cured in anyways and is caused due to adrenal fatigue. When stress cortisol is raised, it results in a lack of sleep and restlessness. Persistent tiredness and lack of sleep result in dark circles around the eyes.

3. Dry Skin:

Hormonal imbalance can result in excessive skin dryness. If there is a fall in any hormones like estrogen, the sebum oil secretion reduces, resulting in dry, rough, and flaky skin. Dry skin indicates a deficiency of essential fatty acids and some important nutrients. The thyroid hormone triggers the oil gland and decreases sebum production, where dry skin is caused due to interruption in blood circulation by the thyroid gland.

4. Skin Tags:

There may be tiny growth of skin on the eyelids and neck, known as skin tags. These skin tags are caused due to compromised glucose and insulin hormone balance. When there is variation in the levels of these hormones, the estrogen reduces drastically. This results in overlapping skin, as the skin's elasticity gets affected. Overlapping causes constant friction, which causes skin tags. It is associated with conditions like PCOS, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.

5. Pale/ Yellow Skin:

Pale/yellow skin is a symptom of diabetes or a thyroid condition. In addition, the skin may appear pale if there are any variations in the blood vessels due to hormonal imbalance. Pale skin may also be an indication of liver failure.

How Can Skin Conditions Caused by Hormonal Imbalance Be Treated?

1. Traditional Treatment:

• Oral Contraceptives:

The prescription of oral contraceptives is known to be effective against hormonal imbalance. It treats acne as it contains Ethinylestradiol, an estrogen medicine. Oral contraceptives act on acne stimulation hormones, where their hormones work at their peak during ovulation. Oral contraceptives should be avoided during increased blood pressure, breast cancer, or blood clots.

• Retinoids:

Topical retinoids from vitamin A act great on mild acne. Many skin care products contain retinoids in creams, gels, or lotions. Unfortunately, retinoids increase the chance of sunburns, so it is mandatory to apply sunscreen while using retinoids.

• Anti-androgen Drugs:

Androgen is a male sex hormone in both males and females. Increased androgen hormone levels in females can enhance sebum oil production and cause acne. Anti-androgen hormones help to maintain proper levels of androgen in the body.

• Testosterone Medication:

Many testosterone gels and patches are available, which are recommended to lower the hormonal imbalance among men. It fights the underlying cause that causes the reduction of testosterone.

• Few Lifestyle Changes:

  • Sufficient amount of sleep.

  • Balanced diet.

  • Regular exercise.

  • Intake of more water.

  • Decreased alcohol consumption.

  • Avoid smoking.

  • Manage stress level.

  • Meditate.

  • Intake of nutrient supplements.

  • Harmful skin products should be avoided.

  • Seek medication.

Conclusion

Not all acne is related to the hormonal or menstrual cycle. Acne affects anyone of any age. Genetics, stress, and diet can also cause acne. Treatment of acne enhances self-esteem and quality of life. Hormonal imbalance can cause many skin conditions in males and females. In these conditions, the underlying cause should be treated, and the skin should be taken care of through proper diet and skincare routine.