Skin and Glucocorticoids: Effects of Local Skin Glucocorticoid Impairment on Skin Homeostasis

The commentary by Nikolakis and Zouboulis reviews the work of Slominski et al., which emphasizes the significance of glucocorticoidogenesis in the skin for maintaining skin homeostasis. It points out that disruptions in this process, such as those caused by UVB radiation, may contribute to skin diseases like rosacea and acne. The paper notes that skin structures, including sebaceous glands and hair follicles, are involved in producing glucocorticoids and that these hormones affect sebum production and acne lesion development. Additionally, the role of glucocorticoids in wound healing and stress response is discussed, suggesting that imbalances in cutaneous glucocorticoid production could be pivotal in skin disease mechanisms. The commentary calls for advanced skin models to better understand and address disorders related to glucocorticoidogenesis in the skin.