Current concepts in aesthetic endocrinology

Abstract

The extragenital effects of ovarian steroids are relevant to the metabolism of skin and hair, the changes in body composition and the alterations of the subcutaneous fat distribution throughout life. When ovarian steroids become deficient or are produced in excess, different problems may arise in these tissues and some of these problems, i.e., obesity and cellulite, display gender-specific components. Therefore, a new field in endocrine research known as aesthetic endocrinology is gaining more interest. Because sex steroids are small molecules they can be transported into the skin by topical application when properly formulated. This possibility is used in aesthetic endocrinology in order to achieve local effects but to avoid systemic reactions. After reviewing the current data it collectively seems legitimate to recommend estrogens, either orally or topically, in order to counteract the aging of the skin after menopause. Although a reconstitution of juvenile skin cannot be achieved through this method, a slowing in the skin aging process seems a reasonable expectation. In contrast, the successful treatment of hair loss in women is only confirmed for the application of the non-hormonal compound minoxidil. Apart from the difficult problem of hirsutism, acne and changes in body composition offer promising therapeutical options for endocrinological methods.

Skin aging and sex hormones in women – clinical perspectives for intervention by hormone replacement therapy

“…The Langerhans' cells are influenced by progesterone, with their number increasing during the luteal phase. Melanocytes are stimulated by 17β‐estradiol (16).…”

Effect of methylprednisolone on bone mineral density in rats with ovariectomy-induced bone loss and suppressed endogenous adrenaline levels by metyrosine

“…On the other hand, the estrogen receptors are said to be of two types, alpha (ESRα) and beta (ESRβ). [161718] The polymorphism of the ESRα genes is found to have a significant association with BMD. [19] The results of our study and literature data show that osteoporosis consists of a polyetiologic and complex mechanism.…”

Hormone-Dependent Aging Problems in Women

“…Whereas only subtle changes occur in pituitary dynamic, adrenal gland physiology, and thyroid function, changes in glucose homeostasis, reproductive function, and calcium metabolism are more apparent 3. There are significant alterations in metabolism of skin and hair, body composition, and subcutaneous fat distribution throughout life 4. Therefore, women have many diseases and disabilities requiring intervention and treatment after menopause 5.…”