The one thing I want you to understand about acne is that it's not always hormone-related. While hormonal changes can certainly play a role, there are other factors at play, such as food allergies and toxicity. However, when you are postmenopausal, perimenopausal, or even a man over 50, a hormone decline is expected. If you have acne, it's often a sign of androgen dominance.
The Role of Androgens
Androgens are hormones that include testosterone and DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone). While many people associate androgens with male hormones, women also produce them, albeit in smaller amounts. Androgens are crucial for both men and women, but an imbalance can lead to several health issues, including acne.
High DHEA Levels
Interestingly, I see high DHEA levels more often than I see high testosterone levels in my practice. Elevated DHEA can contribute to androgen dominance, leading to acne. One of the things that drive androgen dominance is a cortisol imbalance.
Cortisol and Its Impact
Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. It plays a significant role in regulating metabolism, inflammation, and immune responses. However, chronic stress can lead to elevated cortisol levels, which in turn can disrupt other hormonal balances, including androgens. This imbalance can manifest as acne, especially in individuals over 50.
Menopause and Andropause
As you age and go into menopause, there’s also something called andropause, which can happen in both men and women. Andropause refers to the decline in androgen levels that occurs with aging. When there is an imbalance in your androgens, it can lead to various health issues.
High Androgens
High androgens can lead to cystic acne and hair loss. These issues are not just about appearance; they can also indicate deeper hormonal imbalances that need to be addressed.
Low Androgens
On the other hand, low androgen levels can cause issues with the adrenals, cortisol, blood sugar, energy, and sleep quality. Adequate levels of androgens such as DHEA and pregnenolone are necessary for your body to efficiently produce estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. These hormone imbalances can exist at any age, whether male or female.
Hormonal Imbalances Across the Lifespan
Hormonal imbalances are not confined to a specific age group. We see women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), men with low testosterone, women with endometriosis and fibroids, and infertility across the board in both males and females. These conditions are hormonally driven and can persist throughout life. Going through menopause does not fix these imbalances for women.
Acne as an Indicator of Hormonal Imbalance
Having things like cystic acne is often an underlying sign of some type of hormonal imbalance. However, other factors can contribute to acne, including:
- Food Allergies: Certain foods can trigger inflammation and acne.
- Poor Detox Pathways: The body's inability to efficiently detoxify can lead to skin issues.
- High Levels of Inflammation: Chronic inflammation can exacerbate acne.
- Unhealthy Diet: Diets rich in unhealthy fats and high amounts of sugar can feed acne.
The Broader Impact of Hormones on Health
At the end of the day, hormones profoundly impact not just your skin and acne, but how you age and your overall health status. Hormonal health is a cornerstone of functional medicine, and addressing imbalances can lead to improved health outcomes.
Seeking Help and Guidance
If you have any questions about this topic, want access to more testing, or need more guidance, feel free to reach out to my team at the Wellness Connection. We are dedicated to helping you get to the root cause of your health issues and achieve optimal wellness.
Conclusion
Acne in your 50s can be perplexing and frustrating, but understanding the underlying causes can help you take the necessary steps to address it. Hormonal imbalances, particularly androgen dominance and cortisol imbalances, play a significant role. However, other factors such as diet, inflammation, and detoxification pathways also contribute. By addressing these issues holistically, you can improve your skin health and overall well-being. Remember, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone—professional guidance and support are available to help you achieve lasting health.
