Could hormones help prevent wrinkles and hair greying? A new study published in the Endocrine Society journal Endocrine Reviews suggests they might. The research suggests how certain hormones in the body not only affect skin ageing but may also help slow down the process.
According to a research article at the University of Munster in Germany, the key hormones that control the process of skin ageing include those responsible for breaking down connective tissue (causing wrinkles), helping stem cells survive, and maintaining skin pigment (preventing hair greying).
How hormones affect skin ageing:
The skin ages due to both internal (natural ageing) and external factors like sun exposure and pollution. The study found that hormones like insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), growth hormone, estrogens, and melatonin can influence how quickly the skin shows signs of ageing.
Also read | Anti-ageing: Top 10 foods to reverse ageing, reduce wrinkles, increase skin firmness, and more
Melatonin stood out as a powerful antioxidant that protects skin from damage and supports skin cell repair. It is affordable, well-tolerated, and could become a future anti-ageing treatment.
Additionally, the study also reveals that endocannabinoids (found in CBD products) and oxytocin (the love hormone) could protect the skin from sun damage and boost collagen production. Further research into these hormones may offer opportunities to develop new therapeutics for treating and preventing skin ageing, says the researcher.
8 hormones that help slow down skin ageing:
- Growth hormone: Helps repair tissues and maintain collagen for firmer skin.
- Estrogens: Improves skin hydration and elasticity, especially in menopausal women.
- Retinoids (Retinol and Tretinoin): Boosts skin cell turnover and reduces wrinkles.
- Melatonin: Protects the skin from UV damage and supports cell repair.
- Oxytocin: May reduce inflammation and promote glowing skin.
- Endocannabinoids: Found in CBD products, they help the skin recover from stress and pollution.
- α-Melanocyte-stimulating hormone: Boosts skin pigmentation and protects against sun damage.
Skincare tips based on hormones
- Eat more antioxidant-rich foods: Certain foods like berries, spinach, and nuts to support melatonin production.
- Stay hydrated: Sufficient hydration okay a vital role in your skin health. Hydration helps hormones like IGF-1 and growth hormone work effectively.
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity and exercise is important to naturally boost growth hormones and improve skin elasticity.
- Use retinoid-based creams: It helps to encourage cell turnover and reduce fine lines.
- Try CBD-infused skincare: It is an anti-inflammatory and stress-relieving properties.
- Get enough sleep: Proper sleep is mandatory. The melatonin is produced at night and helps repair skin cells.
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