Ways Hormones Affect Your Appearance

Everyone knows the old saying, “Beauty is only skin deep.” Still, there’s no denying people can make assumptions based on appearance — and how we look can affect how we feel about ourselves.

The problem: It’s not always easy to maintain a youthful, vibrant appearance. That’s because as we age, our bodies change, including fluctuations in hormone levels.

At The Riegel Center, Christopher J. Riegel, MD, and his team take a holistic approach to health, addressing underlying hormonal imbalances that can lead to significant changes in your appearance as you age. 

Here, learn the connection between hormones and appearance and how we can help you look and feel your confident best.

Hormones and appearance

Hormones are chemicals that regulate all sorts of functions, including those that impact your appearance (and self-confidence). 

Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone (the so-called sex hormones) are produced in abundance while we’re young, with production declining as we get older. 

Estrogen and progesterone

Estrogen and progesterone play key roles in skin health, particularly elasticity and tone. As we age, a decline in these hormones can lead to loose, sagging skin, thinner skin, and lines and wrinkles. Lower levels can also lead to thinning hair and hair breakage.

These hormones also play a role in metabolism. Decreased production can lead to weight gain and sleep problems, leaving you looking tired and worn.

Testosterone

Declining testosterone levels can lead to thinner, drier skin and thinning hair. This drop also contributes to a loss of muscle mass, meaning you may not get the muscle definition you want regardless of how much you work out. 

Like estrogen, declining testosterone increases weight gain, particularly around the midsection.

On the other hand, too much testosterone increases skin’s oil production and the risk of acne breakouts. In women, it also increases the risk of unwanted hair growth on the face and other areas, along with thinning hair or a receding hairline.

Thyroid hormones

Your thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your throat. Like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, thyroid hormone levels can vary significantly during your lifetime.

Imbalances in these hormones can lead to dry, rough skin, changes in hair texture, hair loss, and brittle nails. Thyroid hormones also play roles in metabolism, and fluctuations in these hormones can affect your energy, sleep habits, and weight.

How hormone replacement therapy (HRT) works

Dr. Riegel uses bioidentical HRT to replace and replenish hormone levels. Bioidentical hormones are synthetic hormones derived from plant sources chemically identical to the ones your body produces.

That means your body can use bioidentical hormones the same way it uses natural hormones. Importantly, it can also eliminate excess hormones effectively, reducing the risk of side effects that can occur with traditional synthetic hormones that tend to build up in your blood.

Before prescribing HRT, Dr. Riegel performs an exam, reviews your symptoms, and uses blood tests to evaluate your hormone levels. Next, he recommends a dosage and therapy based on your needs. Regular checkups ensure your dosing remains on track.

If you’d like to have your hormone levels checked or learn if HRT is right for you, request an appointment online or over the phone today with Dr. Riegel and the team at The Riegel Center in Plano, Texas.