Biology of Estrogens in Skin: Implications for Skin Aging

The document from 2005 explores the effects of estrogens on skin aging, indicating that estrogens can improve skin by increasing collagen, thickness, and moisture, but the precise cellular and molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Estrogen receptors are present in the skin, and estrogens may act through similar pathways as in other tissues. However, systemic hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is not recommended for skin aging due to the risk of breast cancer and other pathologies. Research is directed towards developing selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) to specifically target skin without systemic effects. The document also reviews estrogen's impact on skin functions like hair growth, pigmentation, and elasticity, noting that while systemic estrogen therapy visibly affects the skin, more studies are needed to fully understand its role in skin collagen, thickness, and aging-related changes. Additionally, estrogen's influence on melanocytes and hair follicles is discussed, with the presence of estrogen receptors suggesting a role in pigmentation and hair growth regulation. The document concludes that while skin is responsive to estrogens, the risks associated with HRT necessitate further research into topical estrogens, phytoestrogens, and SERMs for treating skin aging.