Skin Connective Tissue and Aging
July 2013
in “
Best Practice & Research in Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology
”
menopause estrogen deficiency skin collagen dermal thickness skin elasticity estrogen replacement intrinsic aging extrinsic aging telomeres UV radiation micro-inflammatory model collagen fibers matrix metalloproteinases hormone replacement therapy topical estrogen therapy glycosaminoglycans proteoglycans HRT topical estrogen
TLDR Menopause reduces skin collagen and elasticity, and while estrogen therapy can help, its risks require careful consideration.
The document from 2013 examines the impact of aging on skin connective tissue, with a focus on the effects of menopause and estrogen deficiency on skin health. It reports that menopause leads to a decrease in skin collagen, dermal thickness, and elasticity, and an increase in skin fragility. Estrogen replacement is suggested to improve these conditions, but large-scale clinical trials are needed for concrete recommendations. The paper also discusses intrinsic and extrinsic aging processes, including the role of telomeres, UV radiation, and the micro-inflammatory model of skin aging. It notes that aging affects the quality of collagen fibers and increases matrix metalloproteinases, which degrade collagen. Treatments such as hormone replacement therapy can increase skin collagen and thickness, but are restricted due to cancer risks. Topical estrogen therapy is considered safe and effective, and new products are being developed to increase glycosaminoglycans and proteoglycans to combat skin aging. The document emphasizes the need for early hormone replacement therapy to prevent collagen loss and acknowledges that comorbidities in the elderly can influence skin aging outcomes.
