Jun
Menopause is a significant phase in a woman’s life marked by a natural decline in ovarian function and a subsequent decrease in serum estrogen levels. Although women are experiencing longer lifespans, the age at which menopause typically happens (around 51 years old) has remained consistent. As a result, women spend more of their lives in the postmenopausal phase. The consequences of estrogen deprivation during this time extend beyond reproductive health, manifesting in various changes throughout the body, including the skin.
The effects of low estrogen levels on the skin are far-reaching and play a crucial role in the process of aging. A lack of estrogen can cause common symptoms like wrinkles, dryness, atrophy, laxity, poor wound healing, hot flashes, and vulvar atrophy. Studies show that menopause can cause a loss of up to 30% of dermal collagen within the first five years, with an average annual decrease of around 2.1%. Additionally, skin thickness decreases by 1.1% each year.
Understanding the impact of estrogen on the skin has led researchers to explore the potential benefits of estrogen supplementation in postmenopausal women. While findings have been conflicting, most studies indicate that estrogen supplementation can increase skin thickness, enhance collagen content, or both. For instance, a study evaluating topical G1—17-beta estradiol treatment reported that 88% of participants observed improvements in their skin, underscoring the positive effects of estrogen therapy.
The concept of early intervention emerges as a crucial factor for treatment success. While systemic hormone replacement therapy can reverse signs of skin and vaginal dryness and atrophy, the associated risks limit its use for skin-related disorders. The systemic absorption of topical or local estrogen therapies, on the other hand, has been observed to be significantly lower, making them a potentially safer alternative.
Existing topical treatment strategies targeting cutaneous symptoms of menopause are currently limited, leaving a significant gap in the therapeutic options available. Nevertheless, recent advancements in understanding estrogen receptors (ERs) offer a glimmer of hope. Two types of ERs, ER-α, and ER-β, have been identified in the skin, with ER-β being more widely distributed. The selective targeting of ER-β presents a promising avenue for more targeted interventions, particularly considering that ER-α activation is associated with reproductive cancers.
As with any medical topic, it is important to consult with healthcare professionals to determine the most appropriate treatment options based on individual circumstances. To determine the best treatment for you, schedule a consultation at Kirsch Dermatology in Naples, Florida.