As a skincare formulator and founder in my late 40s, I’ve experienced first hand the complex changes that hormones bring to our skin. From unexpected dryness and fine lines to the resurgence of hormonal pigmentation, these changes are more than skin deep. They are a reminder of how interconnected our bodies are with the cycles of life. Through my journey, I’ve learned to merge the wisdom of Ayurveda with the advancements of modern science, creating a holistic approach to managing these hormonal shifts. In this post, I’ll share how you can take care of your skin during these changes, blending both ancient and contemporary methods for healthier, more balanced skin.
Hormonal changes profoundly affect women’s skin health, especially during phases like puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Western medicine offers scientific insights into these changes, while Ayurveda provides a holistic approach through diet, lifestyle, and natural remedies. Let’s explore how hormonal shifts impact the skin and how one can care for it by integrating both perspectives.
Understanding Hormonal Changes and Skin
Western Medicine Perspective : Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and cortisol regulate many skin functions. Puberty sees an increase in androgens, leading to oily skin and acne. In the 40s and beyond, declining estrogen levels cause thinning, dryness, and fine lines. Cortisol, the stress hormone, can worsen inflammatory conditions like acne and eczema.
Ayurveda’s View : Ayurveda attributes these skin changes to imbalances in the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Hormonal fluctuations during menopause or stress often cause Vata imbalances (dry, aging skin), Pitta imbalances (inflammation, acne), or Kapha imbalances (oiliness, clogged pores). Ayurvedic remedies focus on restoring balance through natural ingredients and lifestyle practices.
Common Hormonal Skin Issues and How to Care for Them
1. Dryness and Aging Skin (Estrogen Decline)
● Western Medicine: As estrogen declines during menopause, collagen production decreases, leading to dry, thin skin with more visible wrinkles. Dermatologists recommend using products with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and retinoids to retain moisture and stimulate collagen production.
Ayurveda:
● Aging skin is linked to a Vata imbalance, which causes dryness and rough texture. Ayurvedic treatments include daily self-massage (Abhyanga) with warm oils like sesame or almond to nourish and hydrate the skin. Herbal infusions of Ashwagandha and Shatavari help rejuvenate skin from the inside out.
2. Hormonal Acne (Testosterone Fluctuations)
Western Medicine:
Hormonal acne, often seen around the jawline and chin, can be caused by fluctuating testosterone levels.
Ayurveda:
Hormonal acne reflects an excess of Pitta dosha, which governs heat and inflammation. Ayurvedic skincare uses cooling herbs like Neem, Tulsi, and Sandalwood to calm acne and reduce redness.
3. Hyperpigmentation (Melanin Production)
● Western Medicine:
Hyperpigmentation, often worsened by sun exposure and hormonal fluctuations (like during pregnancy), leads to dark spots and uneven skin tone.
● Ayurveda:
In Ayurveda, pigmentation issues stem from Pitta and Vata imbalances. Herbs like Turmeric and Manjistha are used for their brightening properties. Regular use of Sandalwood oil and Aloe Vera helps cool the skin and prevent excess pigmentation.
Nurturing Insights:
● Western: Apply brightening serums with Vitamin C and use sunscreen daily to prevent further pigmentation. Vitamin C is not suitable for all skin types so always consult your dermatologist, as during hormonal changes our skin becomes reactive and is prone to sensitivity to ingredients/foods which have worked before but not now.
● Ayurvedic: Use turmeric-based face masks and consume cooling foods to reduce internal heat. Using a rose hydrosol for the skin and even eyes is naturally cooling.
4. Sensitive and Reactive Skin (Cortisol and Stress)
● Western Medicine:
Chronic stress elevates cortisol levels, leading to skin inflammation and sensitivity. This can worsen conditions like rosacea, eczema, and hives. Dermatologists suggest using gentle, fragrance-free products to soothe the skin. Managing stress with lifestyle adjustments is essential for reducing cortisol levels.
● Ayurveda:
Sensitive skin is tied to excess Vata and Pitta. To calm irritation, Ayurveda recommends using herbs like Chamomile, Licorice, and Aloe Vera. Lifestyle practices such as Pranayama (breathing exercises) and meditation help reduce stress, calming both the
mind and skin.
Nurturing Insights :
● Western: Use soothing products with niacinamide and avoid harsh ingredients like alcohol or fragrances.
● Ayurvedic: Apply cooling face packs with aloe vera, and practice meditation or yoga to balance cortisol.
Conclusion
Hormonal changes can cause a variety of skin issues, from dryness and acne to pigmentationand sensitivity. A combined approach that integrates the targeted treatments of Western medicine with the holistic lifestyle adjustments of Ayurveda can provide a comprehensive solution. Western medicine emphasizes active ingredients like retinoids, Vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid, while Ayurveda focuses on balancing the body’s energies through natural remedies, diet, and daily self-care rituals. Together, these approaches can help maintain radiant, healthy skin throughout all stages of hormonal changes.
It’s been a physical, emotional and a Skinical journey for someone who never had skin issues until motherhood when the patches of pigmentation suddenly became evident. It was not only skin but hair as well, as your collagen starts depleting by 1.5% usually from the age of 25 onwards. So one has to take required steps to help address the issue with the right guidance and visiting a dermatologist. There’s never enough that one can do but can be disciplined and mindful of the actions which affect the outcome. For me taking these few following measures and changing some things for good had a life changing experience.
From Hormonal Shifts to Inner Strength: From Brawn to Brains
With her first moon, she becomes a woman. As the moon waxes and wanes, so does a woman’s life. Through her menstruating years she practices her wisdom, and at menopause she becomes her wisdom.
Steps for recovery to a healthy skin, spirit and body :
1) Circadian Rhythm: Listen to your body, what works for others might not for YOU! Eat foods that balance your energy and not deplete it. Include greens, seasonal fruits and infused teas. Eat the biggest meal when the sun peaks. Check the following for more info https://www.ayurvedanama.org/ayurveda-and-circadian-rhythms
2) Breathwork & Meditation : Pranayama is a game changer especially with glandular dysfunction. Hormonal changes are an outcome of Glandular mal-function so balancing that means integrating your energy centers or chakras. Whatever meditation practice works for you incorporate that and make it a 5-11 minute practice before bed time and on rising up. I highly recommend alternate nostril breathing at least ten rounds everyday. Breathing helps to calm the mind and channel the energy in a guided way. Connect to an App, highly recommend Insight Timer.
3) Recreational hobbies and Skill development: Although it sounds like this is for children but if you look and reflect inwards we’ve neglected the inner child. Any new skill stimulates the brain hence, helps the cognition of the brain. Painting, dancing, sewing or even enrolling in an online course that you dreamt of, you can hop on now!
4) Foods/Herbs/ and Rituals: One most important aspect is your food! You are what you digest. That’s how Ayurveda reviews it and being a certified ayurveda nutritionist, I truly believe in the power of nature and how it heals. Try to introduce herbs like ginger, holy basil (tulsi), shatavari, ashwagandha at different stages and seasons. Nurturing your body around the moon cycle and not over doing physical workouts. Rest & repair are key to health, so is warm and moist food for your gut and skin. Avoid cold foods, raw foods post 4pm, should be completely avoided. It helps balance the digestive fire (agni) and repairs your gut. Skin is a true reflection of your inner climate. Please take the required action with the help of an expert always.
5) Skin Care Tools/ Practice: Try and keep your skin hydrated internally as well as externally. Water is essential but only what your body requires! Always keep your sunscreen handy and re-apply every 2-3 hours, if out in the sun. Preferably mineral sunscreen and don’t miss on regular facial massage with your facial oil and a Gua-sha or Kansa tool. Night time rituals, moisturizing for sure to repair. Sleep for 7-8 hours and a good foot massage ensures peaceful sleep. Make a routine for weekly massages and steam along with some reflexology.
Remember that your emotions are like food, they too need a tough stomach for digestion. Buried, denied, or unprocessed emotions become mental ama (toxic sludge) in the same way undigested food becomes physical ama. “Dr. Claudia Welch”
Thank you for joining us on this journey.
Warmly,
Pooja
