Hormone Harmony

Our skin, our largest organ, is a dynamic canvas that can reflect the intricate changes in our hormones throughout our lives. In this month’s journal ‘Hormone Harmony’, we look at how our hormones impact our skin over our lifetime.

Hormones are chemical messengers playing a vital role in nurturing the radiance of our skin.

In the Beginning: Adolescence

Adolescence is a time of transformation and self-discovery. Hormones surge during puberty, setting the stage for the development of both physical and emotional characteristics.

Girls going through puberty start releasing hormones into their bloodstream. The growth androgen receptor hormone and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) kick in. GnRH sends a message to their ovaries to turn on oestrogen and testosterone. These hormones trigger sebaceous gland stimulation. Sebum travels up into the hair follicles and the skin begins producing oils. The surge in androgen hormones can cause girls going through puberty to experience acne and oily skin.

Breakouts During the Menstrual Cycle

The surge in reproductive hormones during puberty including oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone triggers the beginning of the menstrual cycle and other physical changes. It is common to experience acne breakouts at the beginning of your period due to the change in the ratio of oestrogen to progesterone and testosterone. A decrease in oestrogen, and subsequently higher levels of testosterone, lead to an increase in oil production. This can cause clogged pores and acne breakouts. Hormonal acne is common during puberty and during your menstrual cycle. Its severity can vary widely depending on hormonal imbalances, genetics, and environmental factors such as pollution.

Use a gentle cleanser such as SkinCeuticals Gentle Cleanser, CeraVe Cream to Foam Cleanser and the La Roche Posay Toleriane range.

A non-comedogenic moisturizer like Avene Hydrance Aqua Cream in Gel and Eucerin Adjunctive Soothing-Cream helps with the management of acne while nurturing your skin’s natural balance. If your acne is impacting how you feel about your skin, speak to a dermatologist about a treatment plan tailored to you.

The Balancing Act: Adulthood

Entering adulthood brings a degree of stability to hormone levels, and the skin typically reflects this balance. However, women may encounter monthly fluctuations due to the menstrual cycle. Oestrogen and progesterone dance in harmony, influencing hydration levels and even skin tone. For men, testosterone remains steady, continuing to play a role in oil production. This is the time to embrace a skincare routine tailored to your unique needs.

I love antioxidant-rich serums like Medik8 Hydra8 B5 serum.

Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen. I especially love Mesoestetic Mesoprotech Melan 130 Pigment Control and Ultra Violette Supreme Screen SPF 50.

These will become essential allies in maintaining that youthful glow.

Pregnancy: The Glow Within

For women embarking on the journey of motherhood, hormones change again. Elevated levels of oestrogen contribute to the famed pregnancy glow by increasing blood flow to the skin, giving it a radiant appearance.

For many women, however, hormonal changes may also bring about skin sensitivities, such as melasma or acne.

A pregnancy-safe skincare routine can address these concerns. Hydrating and nourishing ingredients become your go-to, ensuring the health of both you and your unborn child.

Menopause and Andropause: Embracing Change

As we age, hormonal shifts usher in new chapters for both women and men. Menopause signals a decline in oestrogen for women, leading to a decrease in collagen and moisture. This may result in drier, more delicate skin. For men experiencing andropause, a decline in testosterone may lead to increased dryness and a loss of elasticity.

Retinoids and peptides become our allies, promoting collagen production and combating the signs of ageing. Embracing these changes with a positive mindset contributes to a radiant and confident appearance.

Look for products that help strengthen the skin barrier and combat inflammation. I reach for Medik8 Intelligent Retinol and Allies of Skin Prebiotics and Niacinamide Pore Refining Booster.

Vitamin C also helps stimulate collagen and elastin production within the skin as well as reduce pigmentation. SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic is a favourite in my skincare routine.

Golden Years: Wisdom in Skincare

In our golden years, the skin becomes a reflection of our lives. Hormonal changes continue, but with age, the emphasis shifts to maintaining skin health and vitality. Moisturizers rich in ceramides and hyaluronic acid become treasured companions, nourishing the skin and enhancing its resilience.

The impact of hormones on our skin is a lifelong journey, filled with ebbs and flows. By understanding these changes and adapting our skincare routines accordingly, we can embrace each stage with confidence. Your skin tells a story – let it be one of resilience, joy, and a life well-lived.