You’re way more likely to hear us talking about Skin Moods™ than skin types. That’s because skin (particularly rollercoaster skin) is ever-changing, so classifying and tending to a complexion according to its current status – i.e. its Skin Mood™ – is way more helpful in truly understanding how your unique skin works.
Want to know one of the biggest influences on Skin Mood™? Hormones. These clever little messengers 💌 help control and coordinate so many of our body’s natural processes. But if they tip out of balance? It can lead to a whole number of issues, particularly for the skin 😨
Below, you’ll find our easy-to-digest explainer on all things hormonal skin.
What are hormones?
To put it simply, hormones are molecules that travel around the body, attaching themselves to certain cells to help tissues and glands perform their key functions. Incredibly, there are over 50 different known types of hormones and each of them has a different job. Some control metabolism and appetite, others deal with sleep cycles and mood, some regulate reproductive cycles and sexual function while others handle heart rates and body temperature. And that’s just for starters.
Why do hormone levels change?
Hormone imbalances are totally natural and can occur at different points in life. We commonly see hormone fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, menopause and menstruation as our bodies work to handle these big changes and given a lot of them are related to female life experiences, that’s why hormone-induced skin shifts can be more common in women.
Furthermore, hormone imbalances can also occur when our endocrine glands fail to function effectively or in response to illnesses and medications or lifestyle issues, like extreme weight changes, poor diet and exposure to certain toxins.
Which hormones affect the skin?
The hormones you hear about most in relation to their impact on the skin are oestrogen, androgens (like testosterone) and adrenaline.
Oestrogen. This well-known hormone regulates the changes that occur during the menstrual cycle and can prepare the body for pregnancy. It affects skin thickness, elasticity and moisture levels as well as collagen production, but as we age, oestrogen levels drop which can lead to a loss of plumpness and dewiness and even a rise in inflammation. When oestrogen levels are high (namely during ovulation or pregnancy), you’ll likely see a real boost in glow.
Need a pregnancy or menopause skin regime update? Our Skin Mentors can help!
Androgens. This group of hormones (which includes testosterone) is responsible for maintaining oil production and collagen synthesis. When we’re stressed, our body releases more androgens which can cause breakouts and the appearance of larger pores. As levels drop during menopause, a thinner epidermis and drier skin are likely.
An efficient skincare regime can help counteract the dermatological changes associated with the menopause. Let’s build you one!
Adrenaline. This hormone is in charge of the body’s fight or flight response and it’s what gives you that thrill when you ride a scary rollercoaster or jump out of a plane! It’s also linked to stress as it works to keep us awake which can lead to internal inflammation. It can cause hypersensitivity and even trigger bouts of acne or rosacea acne. You can read more about rosacea and stress here.
Want help figuring out which hormones are messing with your skin? Book a Holistic Skin Session today.
