Bioclycolic Acne Gel

Why do our hormones have such a profound effect on our skin?  Does women’s skin react more to hormones than men’s? Why do we have hormones? Let’s look at the basics of hormones and why they can change our skin so dramatically.

Hormones are chemicals released from endocrine glands. They regulate body functions such as sleep, stress responses, metabolism, and reproduction. Some of the main hormones are estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. Estrogen widens blood vessels so blood flows more easily. Estrogen also increases collagen in the skin. Progesterone prepares the body for pregnancy.

Testosterone strengthens bones and muscles, affects sex drive, hair growth, and oil production. Testosterone is an androgen or sex hormone. It’s responsible for triggering puberty in males. Hormones cause the oil glands to mature in boys and girls at puberty. Androgens can also trigger acne. Hormones can impact hair, skin, and nails.

We actually have a small amount of hormones in our system but they are very powerful. Hormones need to be kept at just the right balance. When hormone levels are off, the results show up physically and emotionally. There are certain times in life when hormones are more likely to be off-balance.

Puberty is the first stage where boys and girls are hit with changing hormones. Hair grows and acne can appear. The androgens can over-stimulate oil glands. Products with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid are effective. For more severe acne, prescription Retin A or Accutaine may be recommended. For women, pregnancy changes their estrogen levels. Some women will get pigmentation across the center of their face, known as melasma.  This can be treated with creams, lasers or peels. It is critical to keep the skin protected from the sun, which can re-trigger the melasma. Hair may also grow thicker during pregnancy but usually more hair than usual is shed a few months after delivery.

Menopause is another time of hormonal change.  Estrogen levels drop and skin thins and becomes drier and more delicate. Women may see a thinning of their hair. Some women continue to struggle with acne at this age. Spironolactone is an androgen blocker that’s  been used successfully to treat thinning hair and stubborn acne in mature women.  Use of Retin A, peptides, and growth factors can keep the skin looking young. And as mentioned earlier, fluctuating hormones can send your emotions on a roller coaster ride. Hormone replacement can alleviate many symptoms, but recent research has shown that the risks may outweigh the rewards. It’s important to discuss your options with your doctor before starting hormone replacement therapy.

As we go through these life changes, remember there are ways to treat the problems that hormones can cause. Your skin can still look beautiful no matter what stage you’re in.