The skin is the largest organ of the human body. It serves as the first layer of protection for
other organs, and throughout life, it is exposed to many adverse factors. That’s why, when
we notice concerning changes in our skin, we often first blame the environment. But is this
the right approach?

Instead of immediately attributing skin issues to cosmetics or a poor diet, it’s worth
understanding how hormones affect skin’s health. It’s quite possible that hormones are the
cause of skin deterioration.

What are hormones?

Hormones are chemical compounds produced by endocrine glands. Their function is to
coordinate chemical processes occurring in cells and tissues. The endocrine organs where
hormones are produced are located in various parts of the body, including:

  • hypothalamus,
  • pituitary gland,
  • pineal gland,
  • thyroid gland,
  • parathyroid glands,
  • pancreas,
  • adrenal glands,
  • ovaries,
  • testes.

The functioning of hormones is complex. They significantly influence functioning,
appearance, and behavior. Hormonal imbalances can either inhibit or stimulate organ
activity. This happenes during illness, puberty, or menopause, leading to disruptions in
normal bodily function. Consequently, one might experience weight fluctuations, irritability,
decreased libido, or skin changes.

The impact of hormones on skin changes

There are many types of skin changes triggered by hormonal imbalances, including acne,
warts, skin tags, oily skin, dermatitis, pigmentation changes, pale complexion, wrinkles, loss
of elasticity, eczema, rashes, dryness, and itching. Advances in endocrinology have allowed
for a detailed understanding of hormones that affect skin condition:

Prolactin – this hormone is mainly produced by the pituitary gland, but in women, it is also
produced by the uterus, mammary glands, skin, and immune system cells. Elevated levels of
prolactin can lead to acne. Additionally, it can increase androgen levels, which may manifest
as oily skin.

Estrogen – a female sex hormone, though also present in small amounts in men. It is
produced by the ovaries, testes, and adrenal glands. Estrogen provides the skin with
elasticity and smoothness, so prolonged issues with its levels can contribute to wrinkle
formation.

Progesterone – like estrogen, it is primarily a female sex hormone produced by the cells of
the corpus luteum. It is responsible for acne, especially in women during menstruation and
the early stages of pregnancy. Small amounts are also produced by the male testes and
adrenal glands, contributing to the secretion of testosterone and estrogen.

Testosterone – produced by the adrenal glands and Leydig cells in male testes. In women, it
is produced by the adrenal glands and ovaries, though in much smaller amounts.
Fluctuations in testosterone levels can cause acne and oily skin due to increased sebum
production.

Androgens – produced by the female ovaries and adrenal glands, as well as the testes in
men. Androgens can directly cause seborrhea. Women struggling with hyperandrogenism
may experience hair loss or excessive skin oiliness.

Melatonin – commonly known as the sleep hormone. It is associated with the pineal gland
and affects skin pigmentation. Elevated or reduced melatonin levels may present as
pigmentation changes or a pale complexion.

HGH (Human Growth Hormone) – secreted by the anterior part of the pituitary gland, this
hormone helps maintain skin elasticity and smoothness. An imbalance can lead to thickened
skin or excessive sweating.

It’s important to understand that both male and female bodies produce these hormones. The
key difference lies in their concentrations and the functions they regulate.

Stress and skin health

Many scientific articles address the topic of stress and its impact on skin health. Stress is the
body’s defensive response to threats. Of course, it is not only triggered by dangerous
situations. Stress can manifest in significant moments, like exams, dates, or job interviews.
Unfortunately, some people may experience it almost daily due to the nature of their work or
personal stressors.

Adrenaline, noradrenaline and cortisol are hormones produced by the body during
psychological stress. They significantly affect skin health. Furthermore, stress can lead to
the development of conditions such as Hashimoto's disease, insulin resistance, prediabetes,
or diabetes, each of which can manifest through a decline in skin health.

Long-term exposure to stress can have negative effects not only on the skin but also on
overall health. Therefore, this issue should not be taken lightly. Everyone’s life is different, so
each case may require different steps to address it. Remember, treatment for skin changes
with a hormonal basis is managed by a dermatologist and an endocrinologist.

If you are experiencing skin issues that may have a hormonal basis, consult a doctor.
At LuMedic, you can make an appointment by calling 221502020 to see endocrine
specialists:

  • dr. Luiza Napiórkowska, MD, PhD
  • dr. Anna Kępczyńska-Nyk, MD, PhD
  • dr. Anna Lewicka, MD, PhD