If you’re over the age of 40, it’s likely you’re seeing changes in your skin. More dryness, less elasticity, wrinkles…
Much of what’s happening here has to do with your hormones.
Read on to learn more about how hormones impact the health of your skin, and what you can do to keep your hormones balanced.
The Hormone-Skin Connection
Think of your hormones as being chemical messengers that affect virtually every system within your body, including your skin.
During a person’s 30s and 40s, hormone levels begin to shift. Some changes are gradual; others occur more rapidly.
Regardless, these shifts can have a big impact on how your skin looks and feels:
- Estrogen
Estrogen supports collagen production…and collagen helps to keep skin firm, elastic, and hydrated. As estrogen and collagen production diminish, skin becomes thinner, drier, and more prone to sagging and wrinkles.
- Testosterone
Lower testosterone levels result in less oil production within the skin for both men and women, yielding skin that is drier and less supple.
- Cortisol
Cortisol that is elevated for extended periods of time in response to chronic stress can trigger inflammation within skin. This inflammation can cause conditions such as adult acne, rashes, eczema, and rosacea.
- Thyroid
Healthy levels of thyroid hormone are supportive when it comes to skin hydration. Alternatively, hypothyroidism (i.e. low thyroid) often leads to skin that is dry and rough.
Watch for These Signs
The following skin changes may indicate hormones that are out of balance:
- Dry, flaky skin that no longer responds well to your usual moisturizers
- Sagging or wrinkled skin
- Skin that appears “crepey”
- Dark spots or patches
- Skin that is thin or slower to heal
- Inflammatory skin conditions like rosacea
What You Can Do to Promote Healthy Skin
Balanced hormones are essential for healthy skin. Properly supervised hormone therapy can go a long way toward keeping skin healthy as people age.
Lifestyle habits are important, too:
- Maintain a Healthy DietFocus on lean proteins, leafy greens, whole grains, and healthy fats. Avoid sugar and processed foods that can spike insulin and promote inflammation.
- Manage StressChronically elevated cortisol can damage your skin. Practice stress management strategies like deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness to reduce stress.
- Get Plenty of Sleep If you know anyone with chronic insomnia, you know what a lack of sleep can do to a person’s skin. Your body needs 7–8 hours of quality sleep each night to restore and repair itself. This includes your skin.
- Regular ExercisePhysical activity promotes healthy circulation. And healthy circulation promotes healthy skin.
- Choose Skincare Products CarefullyOpt for gentler, hydrating products. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides have been shown to improve the appearance and texture of skin.
Healthy Hormones…Healthy Skin
Once you understand the link between your hormones and the health of your skin, you can take steps to ensure your hormone levels stay optimized.
Renew Youth has been the leader in hormone health for men and women since 1999. We understand the importance of maintaining balanced hormones for all aspects of your health, including your skin. To learn more, call us at 800-859-7511 or use our easy contact form to schedule your complimentary 30-minute consultation.