Oil production is a key element in how our skin looks and feels and is controlled by hormones. At the most basic level, if we produce too much testosterone, it’s likely to lead to blemishes. High doses of oestrogen can supress oil production, then we experience dryness and wrinkles start to appear. Our sebaceous glands have receptors on them, so if there is more testosterone whooshing through the body in our blood, then these receptors notice and start to produce more oil. Conversely, very high doses of oestrogen will suppress oil production – also a problem. Oestrogen is key in the production of collagen too, which helps to keep skin smooth, resilient and plump. Ideally, these two hormones, alongside a multitude of others, including progesterone, need to be in balance for our skin to stay balanced, healthy, smooth, and blemish-free. Let’s take a deeper dive….
BREAK OUTS
Higher levels of testosterone and progesterone can disrupt sebum levels in the skin. The excess sebum combines with dead skin cells and everyday dirt becomes trapped in pores leading to blemishes. Typically, Progesterone peaks during the luteal phase, which occurs during the second half of the menstrual cycle after ovulation. The first few days of a cycle are part of the follicular phase when progesterone levels are low. Reach for your salicylic acid-based products which can deep cleanse pores to help prevent breakouts, try our AlumierMD Clarifying Lotion or Retinol to boost your skin’s natural exfoliation leading to a shorter lifespan of a blemish too, hurray!
Testosterone fluctuations happen during puberty, pregnancy and are a side effect of some medications; not to mention as a manifestation of stress.
Our skin experts can guide you through these changes, so you have exactly the right skincare and advice for your needs.
DISCOLOURATION
Huge life changes come in many guises, but both pregnancy and the menopause are up there. Along with redefining who we are, navigating the mood swings caused by hormones and physical changes, our skin can randomly develop patches of discoloration. There are varying types of discoloration, but it particularly shows up on the upper lip, cheeks and neck. It can be down to sun damage and Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation but, if hormonally related, it usually is down to oestrogen fluctuations. We know you’ve heard it before, but broad spectrum sunscreens are your best friend when it comes to protecting skin against the UV rays that can worsen the appearance of discoloration. Natural brightening agents like those found in our AlumierMD Intellibright Complex or AlumierMD Prep & Enhance both products can target discoloration directly plus a supercharged vitamin C serum and retinol formula are key products in targeting discoloration.
DRY SKIN
Disruption to all hormones, and particularly oestrogen, during the perimenopause and menopause, can affect sebum levels in the skin and lead to dryness. Oestrogen helps to support collagen production, so as it naturally starts to deplete, the ageing process is accelerated with more wrinkles, fine lines, and loss of skin elasticity (joy!). To help combat dryness and signs of ageing, try products like our AlumierMD Ulitmate Boost Serum that include low molecular weight hyaluronic acid to hydrate and plump while ceramides and niacinamide can actively moisturise. Skin experiences incredible change as our hormones alter during perimenopause and menopause, so it’s an important time to have regular skin reviews with your skincare expert to ensure your skincare routine is working as hard as it can for you during this pivotal time.
STRESS AND CORTISOL
Cortisol is another hormone that increases oil production in the skin. We release more cortisol if we’re stressed and that can present in the same way as testosterone – to more blemishes. Cortisol is a catabolic hormone which means it breaks down tissues. If we have too much, it suppresses collagen production AND starts breaking down our existing collagen as well as causing breakouts (it’s enough to stress us out). Dealing with stress is key to helping skin, but also to a happier life, so find a way that helps you to let it out, whether that is yoga and breathwork, talking with friends, therapy, or exercise – whatever works for you.
NUTRITION
A balanced diet that includes a variety of fruit and vegetables – we like the term – eat the rainbow – is important for overall health.
Head over to our blog ‘How Diet and Lifestyle Can Age Your Skin’ to read more about effects of nutrition on your skin
https://beautymattersleeds.co.uk/how-diet-and-lifestyle-can-age-the-skin/
Throughout these times it is important you have regular skin reviews so your skin expert can adapt and bespoke your routine to ensure your skin is getting exactly what it needs to help manage the effects of hormonal changes on your skin.
Book your first skin consultation or skin review with us by dropping us an email or giving us a call. All skin consultations and review are free of charge.
Rothwell – 0113 393 4281
Garforth – 0113 286 2222
