Estrogen is a hormone that helps regulate the female reproductive system. This hormone is produced by both men and women. However, it plays a more important role in women’s health. It also initiates the menstrual cycle, starting with the development of female characteristics during puberty, such as breasts and wider hips. In addition, estrogen also helps maintain bone strength, regulate mood, and control heart health.
Interestingly, estrogen levels also affect the health of your skin, and low levels are associated with dry and itchy skin, especially in menopausal women. Dr. Nancy Nagpal, Endocrinologist, Salubityas Medical Center, South Delhi , in an interview with the OnlyMyHealth team, sheds light on this connection.
Read also: The role of hormones in heart health: An expert explains why the risk of cardiovascular disease increases in women with age.
What happens to estrogen levels during menopause?
Menopause can occur in three stages:
Perimenopause: The transitional period leading up to menopause, characterized by irregular periods and potential symptoms such as hot flashes.
Menopause: The point at which menstruation stops completely, usually defined as 12 months without menstruation.
Postmenopause: The time after menopause when menstruation no longer occurs.
During menopause, estrogen levels drop significantly because the ovaries don’t produce enough hormones, leading to symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.
According to the Office on Women’s Health, you have reached menopause if you have not had a period for 12 consecutive months.
How do low estrogen levels affect skin health?
“Low estrogen levels, especially during menopause, can significantly affect the skin, leading to dryness and itchiness,” says Dr. Nagpal. “This occurs due to a decrease in the production of natural oils and collagen, which leads to thinner and drier skin, ultimately causing irritation and discomfort.”
According to a study published in the International Journal of Gynecological Dermatology, estrogen deficiency may also contribute to skin aging, with studies highlighting increased skin damage in menopausal women.
Research has explored alternatives such as topical estrogens and soy-derived isoflavones, which mimic the effects of estrogen and may improve skin hydration, elasticity, and overall appearance.
Which areas of the body are most prone to dry and itchy skin caused by estrogen?
“The vaginal area is the most commonly affected area, with symptoms ranging from dryness, irritation, and itching to discomfort during intercourse,” says Dr. Nagpal, adding that dry, itchy skin can also occur in other parts of the body due to decreased estrogen levels.
Also read: Estrogen Detox: Expert Shares Comprehensive Guide to Hormonal Balance and Health
How to balance estrogen levels and reduce itchy skin?
According to the doctor, several treatments are available to manage low estrogen levels and menopausal itching.
She recommends selective estrogen pills, lubricants, and moisturizers to help reduce symptoms. You can use moisturizing oils and creams for dry skin. However, all treatments should be used under the supervision of a doctor or gynecologist to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Additionally, some dietary changes can help manage the symptoms of low estrogen. Foods rich in phytoestrogens, such as tofu, legumes, flaxseed, and sesame seeds, may be beneficial. It is recommended to include berries, nuts, broccoli, and other vegetables in your diet. A high-protein diet, along with adequate calcium, fiber, and vitamin D intake, can also support overall health. Processed foods, sugar, and excessive carbohydrates should be avoided.
Dr. Nagpal emphasizes that it is important to seek medical attention if menopausal women experience persistent vaginal dryness, discomfort during sexual activity, or significant skin itching.
Other symptoms of low estrogen include mood swings, heart palpitations, skin and hair changes, breast tenderness, and sleep disturbances. It is also important to note that low bone density is also a common problem during menopause, which requires medical attention and proper treatment.
