Estrogen levels in women decline faster than testosterone starting in their late 20s. Now what this means for the skin is Testosterone, which is an androgenic hormone, causes the masculine qualities of testosterone to increase and become more visible. Examples include facial hair growth around the chin, jawline and cheeks, as well as oil production which can clog pores and cause blemishes. At the same time, the decrease in estrogen causes fine lines and wrinkles to develop, as well as loss of elasticity, dry and thinning skin, and a lackluster complexion. And even if you did not experience breakouts at a younger age, about a third of women will get adult acne, usually in their 30s.
As an aside, the difference between adolescent acne and adult acne is rather than presenting as painful, cystic pimples, adult (or, hormonal) acne is usually small red bumps that often run along the jaw line and around the mouth area. A few examples of how to combat hormonal acne would be to go on the birth control pill, or take spironolactone, a water pill with anti-androgenic effects.
But what exactly causes facial wrinkles? Facial wrinkles occur when the skin loses elasticity, support,and volume. This is caused by a reduction in elastic tissue, collagen, and hyaluronic acid in the skin. Basically, your skin becomes too big for the tissue underneath. The first place a woman will usually start seeing fine lines is around the eyes (the peri-orbital region) where the skin is the thinnest. Next will be the areas that crease the most when we smile or laugh, such as the nasolabial folds, which run from the corners of our nose to the outer corner of our mouth.
How do we combat the effects of Natural Hormonal Progression on the skin? I recommend a two-prong approach to anti-aging: Procedures and Products. Procedures include Botox to relax the muscles that cause creases, Laser Skin Resurfacing to smooth away fine lines and regenerate fresh new skin, and Injectible Fillers to plump deep creases, as well as plump hollows under the eyes, temples and cheeks. Depending on the look you want to achieve, a combination of different procedures might be the right solution for you.
The second prong to anti-aging is Products. If someone only uses Procedures, they are doing nothing for the quality and texture of their skin. Look for skincare products that treat all 3 causes of skin aging (time, environment and natural hormonal progression) AND contain ingredients such as Soy and Black Cohosh, which mimic the positive effects of estrogen on the skin. The key to any skincare regimen is using quality products that contain multiple active ingredients so every application is like nourishing your skin with a multivitamin.
Understanding the difference between Procedures and Products, and combining the benefits of both prongs, will give the most complete approach to fighting skin aging. And of course, limit your sun exposure!
