Our bodies continually go through hormonal changes as we age. Women can begin to experience these changes as early as their mid-thirties when perimenopause often starts. Estrogen levels decline especially after age forty and as we approach menopause. Fluctuations in hormones like estrogen can also affect our health and skin.
Estrogen is the hormone we rely on to regulate the menstrual cycle, give us beautiful curves, support brain health, bone health, skin, and so much more. We make estrogen in our ovaries, adrenals, fat cells, and other tissues – and levels fluctuate depending on the season and even the time of the month. For example, estrogen levels may be higher in the summer months compared to winter. What you might be surprised by is that these changes can impact the appearance and health of your skin.
Estrogen Imbalance and Your Skin
Hormonal balance is essential to support radiant skin. Low estrogen makes the skin drier, less elastic, and more fragile. It can also cause other health challenges like mood changes. For women over the age of 40, declining estrogen levels are the leading cause of dry, droopy skin. Fine lines begin to turn into deep creases and the skin around your eyes and lips may start to sag. These skin issues – especially if they’re accompanied by other signs of low estrogen such as hot flashes and night sweats – could mean you need more estrogen support.
On the other hand, high estrogen has its own problems. When estrogen levels are too high, it may cause hyperpigmentation – common in Amber skin types. Women who are pregnant or on birth control pills generally have higher estrogen levels.
There are also many women who experience what is often called estrogen dominance. This means estrogen is not metabolized properly or progesterone is declining – which leads to excess estrogen compared to progesterone.
Signs of estrogen imbalance are common, but they’re not optimal. And there are ways we can restore balance naturally. When we are free of the challenges estrogen imbalance causes, from melasma to premature aging, we can feel more beautiful inside and out. The key with estrogen, as with all hormones, is balance. So how do we balance estrogen?
How to Balance Estrogen Levels
One of the best ways to get started balancing your estrogen levels is to get your hormone levels tested to determine if your estrogen levels are low. No one should put themselves at higher risk for serious issues such as osteoporosis and cognitive decline. It’s also not ideal to solve estrogen imbalance with medication or pharmaceuticals that mask symptoms when there are alternative options. Start by talking with your doctor about ways to support your estrogen levels naturally.
Eating more high-fiber vegetables is a good first step toward hormonal balance. Fiber helps keep blood sugar levels balanced. In addition, eating a variety of produce helps support a healthy gut microbiome. All of this helps with hormonal harmony – especially when you incorporate cruciferous veggies, such as broccoli, kale, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts, your estrogen metabolism benefits.
Eating certain phytoestrogens such as flaxseed, sesame seeds, non-GMO soy, and rhubarb may help support your estrogen levels naturally.
Other lifestyle factors that appear to improve our estrogen levels include mindfulness approaches like yoga, as ongoing stress tends to suppress our estrogen production.
5 Nutrients that Support Estrogen Balance
Calcium D-Glucarate
Calcium d-glucarate is the calcium salt of d-glucaric acid, a compound produced by the body in small amounts. Calcium d-glucarate supports the body’s ability to process estrogen. Glucaric acid can be found in foods such as oranges, cruciferous vegetables, and apples.
Diindolylmethane (DIM)
DIM is known for its ability to improve estrogen metabolism and is a compound found in cruciferous vegetables.
Chaste tree extract
Chaste tree extract is also known as vitex. It is a supportive herb for women’s health that helps balance and optimize hormones.
Black cohosh
Black cohosh is an herb native to North America. It has traditionally been used for menopause support
Polygonum
This flowering plant has been used for centuries in traditional practices to promote well-being.
You can find these nutrients in The Spa Dr. FemRestore supplement, a select blend of herbs and nutrients that help restore hormonal harmony.* If you take any medications, talk with your doctor before taking this or any other supplements.
Not sure where to start?
Take my hormone quiz to see if you have symptoms of estrogen imbalance. Once you have more information from taking the quiz, you’ll have a better understanding of what to talk with your doctor about. Testing can be a great way to find out where your hormone levels are now and what you can do to promote balance in the future.
Being proactive about your hormones now will have an impact on how you feel in one year, five years, and even a decade. It’s essential to take charge if you don’t like what you see on your skin or don’t like how you feel in your body. Document any signs you notice and take them to your doctor. Then practice lifestyle habits that support hormonal balance as you work to heal the root causes of imbalance. You deserve to feel as beautiful as you already are!
The Spa Dr.® Approach
At The Spa Dr.®, our approach is to help shine the light on the skin and health care information and offer our guidance to support you on your journey.
We’re offering a free 9-part documentary series – Hormones, Health & Harmony to help you balance your hormones and restore radiance. Register HERE.
My next book, Natural Beauty Reset, provides an in-depth look at how you can nourish your body and support your health and hormones through the seasons. You can pre-order my book now on Amazon.
The Spa Dr.® offers natural skin care products that are safe and free from chemicals and toxins that can harm your skin and health. Our products are formulated to contain key nutrients in their pure and active form to provide optimal results. In addition, our products are pH balanced towards mild acidity to promote and protect a healthy skin microbiome.
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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
