A powerful hormone that modulates critical risk factors for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and cancer in women, estrogen also appears to exert strong influence on slowing the aging mechanisms in the skin as well.

Experimental studies show that estrogen receptors are located in the skin, and that estrogen increases activity of skin fibroblasts--rod-like cells that produce collagen.1 One study found that the collagen content of skin in postmenopausal women who underwent estrogen replacement therapy was 48% greater than in those who didn't--suggesting that, in aging women, estrogen protects skin similar to the way it protects bones.2

Declining levels of estrogen associated with age are linked to damage to skin integrity and function.3 Maintaining optimal levels of estrogen, however, appear to safeguard against many of these effects.

One trial conducted at the University of Vienna Medical School found that estradiol replacement decreased wrinkle depth and pore size from 61 to 100% in perimenopausal women, while at the same time improving skin moisture.4

At a meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) in Orlando in spring of 1998, Dr. Tania Phillips of Boston University concluded that estrogen replacement therapy significantly reduces dryness and wrinkling, by increasing the collagen content of a woman's skin. Her study of over 3000 women examined the results of both systemic and topical administration of estrogen.

Because excess estrogen can result in serious side effects such as mood changes, vaginal bleeding and increased cancer risk, Phillips stressed the importance of establishing optimal doses of estrogen before embarking on a hormone replacement therapy (HRT) program.

Great Smokies' Female Hormone Profile and Menopause Profile both incorporate multiple assays of estrogen (along with progesterone and testosterone) to help ensure optimal hormonal balance.

The Women's Hormonal Health Assessment provides a focused overview of hormonal balance in both pre- and post-menopausal women, using a single serum sample to evaluate dynamics of sex steroid metabolism that can profoundly affect a woman's health throughout her lifetime.

References:
1 Vaillant L, Callens A. Hormone replacement treatment and skin aging. [French] Therapie 1996;51(1):67-70.
2 Brincat M, Moniz CF, Studd JW, Darby AJ, Magos A, Cooper D. Sex hormones and skin collagen content in postmenopausal women. Br Med J 1983;287(6402):1337-8.
3 Bolognia JL. Dermatologic and cosmetic concernts of the older woman. Clin Geriatr Med 1993;9(1):209-29.
4 Schmidt JB, Binder M, Demschik G, Bieglmayer C, Reiner A. Treatment of skin aging with topical estrogens. Int J Dermatol 1996;35(9):669-74.

Call to set up a nutritional consultation so that tests can be performed and a comprehensive strategy of lifestyle, dietary modification and nutrient supplementation can be implemented to aid you in reversing this disorder.

For an appointment, contact our office at: 800-956-7083 and visit our web site www.completehealthinstitute.com go to lab tests and click on appropriate test for information.

Dr. Rispoli, Ph.D., L Ac. has had a clinical practice for over 20 years. Her programs work because she is so thorough in testing and providing a nutritional approach. Remember that the body can heal itself if given the proper nutrients.

The information herein is not intended as diagnosis, treatment or a cure. Should you have a medical condition please seek the advice of your medical doctor.