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ESTROGENS AND THE SKIN: A NEW WRINKLE
ORLANDO, FL (March 1, 1998)- Estrogens have long been seen as positive protection against cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. Now there is increasing evidence that estrogens may also protect against some age and menopause associated dermatologic conditions.
Speaking today at the American Academy of DermatologyÃs 56th Annual Meeting, in Orlando, Tania J. Phillips, MD, Department of Dermatology, Boston University School of Medicine, discussed recent findings that indicate the beneficial effects of both topical and systemic administration of estrogen.
In studies of patients on hormone replacement therapy, estrogens appear to increase the collagen content of the skin. In a large epidemiologic study of over 3,000 women, wrinkling and dryness of the skin appeared to be decreased in patients with a history of estrogen use. "The concern with all estrogen therapy is that while it may protect women against cardiovascular disease and help maintain bone density, there are serious side effects that can occur," stated Dr. Phillips. These side effects include vaginal bleeding, breast tenderness and an increased risk of endometrial and breast cancer.
Recent reports of so-called ëdesigner estrogensà or tissue specific estrogens, suggest that these agents may preserve the beneficial effects of estrogen on the cardiovascular system and bone, but have no unwanted side effects on the reproductive organs. "However," Dr. Phillips stressed, "the effects of these ëdesigner estrogensà have not been documented on skin."
Likewise, the effects of topical estrogen creams on the skin have not been well documented. Yet, in the few studies that have been performed, there appears to be a benefit of increased skin thickness as well as a decrease in fine wrinkling.
"It appears that both topical and systemic estrogens may have beneficial effects on the skin, and further investigation is warranted. However at this time, the optimal dosages and formulations need to be determined by further studies," Dr. Phillips said.
The American Academy of Dermatology is the worldÃs largest organization of dermatologists with over 10,000 members who specialize in treating skin, hair and nail conditions.
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