Puberty was tough. After a relatively worry-free childhood, suddenly our raging hormones are wreaking havoc everywhere. Our voice, height, metabolism, and skin have not only transformed but have also become unpredictable.
But here’s the brilliant twist: Negotiating with hormones won’t stop at our teenage years. Pregnancy, certain medications, trauma, and even stress can trigger these pesky fluctuations. Studies teeter between 80 to 90 percent when estimating the number of women suffering some kind of hormonal imbalance.
In the Philippines alone, around 4.5 million Filipino women are suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS. Two things to note: first, that figure only considers official diagnoses; and second, PCOS is only one in a broad spectrum of hormone-related disorders. Hormones influence metabolism, growth and development, mood, reproduction, and stress response.
Is life just a series of hormonal phases to hurdle? Do we need to balance your hormone levels actively or just let them peter out? So many hormones, so many questions. But let’s begin with the most crucial one.
Why are hormones so important?
As far as biology class is concerned, hormones take a backseat to the organs, muscles, bones, and the life cycle of a butterfly. Endocrine glands, such as the thyroid, adrenal, pituitary, and others, produce hormones that travel through the bloodstream to regulate numerous physiological processes and functions. They influence metabolism, growth and development, mood, reproduction, and stress response. In short, these bodily agents may seemingly be low-tier, but they tell the rest of the cells and organs what to do and how to react.
Genetic, environmental, lifestyle, medications, and illness can disrupt hormone levels and trigger an imbalance. Such vacillations can manifest in numerous ways, depending on the hormone affected. Acne, greasy skin, hair fall or excessive hair growth, irregular menses, and weight loss or gain are some effects of a hormonal balance. But hyperhidrosis, mood swings, bone loss, and infertility are some lesser-known symptoms.
In cases where one suspects a hormonal imbalance, it’s always advised to consult with a physician immediately to develop a safe and effective course of action.
Do women have it “worse” when it comes to hormone issues?
Any sex can experience hormonal imbalances, but thanks to the juggling act required to maintain the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause, women have more capricious hormonal levels.
Some hormone-related disorders, such as PCOS, endometriosis, and premenstrual syndrome or PMS (yes, it’s a hormonal imbalance) only afflict females. But even the more gender-neutral disorders target women more. According to the Journal of the ASEAN Federation of Endocrine Societies, 8.53 percent of the Filipino adult population between 42 and 62 years old have thyroid dysfunction—most of them females. Cases of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism affect three women to every one man. The Nutrition Center of the Philippines claims that almost 80 percent of Filipino women (versus 60 percent of men) aged over 70, are at high risk of developing osteoporosis. “With a better understanding of how female hormones affect our bodily functions, we can also help prevent the progression of other diseases, like diabetes, cardiac problems, dementia, and depression, to say the least.” —Dr. Roma Ramones
According to Dr. Roma Ramones, who specializes in obstetrics and gynecology, estrogen and progesterone are the main culprits that impact the normal functions of a woman’s body. “Though primarily produced by the ovaries, these hormones are connected through different receptor sites in the whole body, having direct and indirect effects on women’s daily conditions,” she tells The Beauty Edit.
“Estrogen and progesterone are secreted in varying levels in certain periods. These fluctuations can be perceived as going ‘haywire,’ which can either be a normal hormonal effect or due to an overlap with a disease process,” she adds.
Can we manage hormones?
With hormone levels oscillating regularly, managing them becomes more predictable.
“Since there is a certain hormone level expected for each stage of a woman’s life, the symptomatic effects can be evaluated through a routine visit with a gynecologist,” says Dr. Ramones. A thorough physical examination and hormone and imaging tests can also confirm any issues.
“With positive influence from social media and rising aesthetic awareness, more women are becoming more assertive regarding their reproductive health and general well-being,” Dr. Ramones shares, adding that doctors, such as dermatologists and general physicians, point to her when hormonal problems are possibly gynecologic in origin.
“With a better understanding of how female hormones affect our bodily functions, we can also help prevent the progression of other diseases, like diabetes, cardiac problems, dementia, and depression, to say the least,” she adds.
How can we keep our hormones in check?
Though some people are predisposed to hormonal conditions, there are ways to maintain one’s hormone levels. “You must become fully aware and responsible of your body,” says Dr. Ramones. Hormones also don’t work in silos. For instance, gut health is related to the female via progesterone, which affects gut motility and the growth of intestinal bacteria. Estrogen, on the other hand, has been studied to have a role in the absorption and secretion in the gastrointestinal tract.
And, since hormones affect our physical, mental, and emotional health, it’s crucial to understand the need for a comprehensive approach when it comes to dealing with an imbalance. After all, varying hormonal levels could make us feel too tired to work out. Without exercise, our moods could plummet further. Enjoying moderate meals that are rich in fiber, protein, and saturated fats, sleeping for at least seven hours a day, and avoiding smoking and liquor are the bare minimum habits to curb hormonal distress.
Dr. Ramones suggests maintaining a non-sedentary lifestyle and conscious eating habits that focus on proper proportions and schedules. It’s not rocket science: Enjoying moderate meals that are rich in fiber, protein, and saturated fats, sleeping for at least seven hours a day, and avoiding smoking and liquor are the bare minimum habits to curb hormonal distress.
The amount of exercise the body requires depends on our age as well as our fitness baseline, but even something as simple as brisk walking or gardening can do wonders for our mind and body.
Is it really possible to hack our way to better hormonal levels?
In recent years, “hormone hacking” has surged into popular culture—thanks in large part to the 2023 bestseller by Davinia Taylor. Backed by a doctor, the former actress and addict turned “biohacker” offers symptom-led advice on how specific lifestyle adjustments, supplements, and even innocent kitchen ingredients can balance cortisol, adrenaline, dopamine, and more.
Hormone hacking, hormone balancing, or hormone syncing as per TikTok, promises to enhance well-being. Its advocates believe it’s the key to optimizing your lifestyle and reversing aging. However, as this once-scientific term reached the mainstream and spurred a fresh batch of internet experts, more and more medical professionals have become concerned about its implications for public health and societal norms, prompting debates over safety and efficacy.
If we are to “manipulate” our endocrine system’s performance, it’s always recommended to resort to safer, healthier methods. For example, Harvard Health says that supplementing the body’s happy hormones isn’t necessary. Instead, we can opt for natural ways to boost the production of oxytocin, serotonin, endorphins, and dopamine, bolstering our spirits in the process.
Exercise, music, and even the act of touching have been shown to increase oxytocin levels. Meanwhile, cardio prompts the body to release more tryptophan, the amino acid your brain uses to make serotonin. It’s the reason we get a “runner’s high,” that feeling of euphoria after an intense sweat session. Sun and light exposure can also compound this natural mood booster.
“In some cases, supplements can cause unwanted and even serious side effects. For example, 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) supplements help to raise serotonin levels in the brain. However, their use is linked to liver and brain damage,” wrote Harvard Health editor Stephanie Watson.
Likewise, Dr. Ramones says that hormonal medications can greatly affect the state of circulating levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body and may cause an indirect reaction to other maintenance medications. “It is still best to consult with a licensed physician to discuss any possible drug interactions,” she stresses.
The next time someone asks you if you’re hormonal, shrug it off. You likely are—and then again, so might the other person. Remember that most hormonal imbalances are temporary. It doesn’t mean your body is a broken system that you should override and reboot. Just remember to start with that healthy and moderate lifestyle and work your way from there.
Fast Facts: Hormones And Your Skin
As your body’s first line of defense, it only makes sense that your skin takes the brunt when your hormones are hormone-ing, as they say.
According to DailySkin Clinic’s dermatopathologist Riza Milante Taruc, FPDS, DDSP-PDS, ICDP-UEMS, hormones can influence the skin in numerous ways. For example, estrogen helps hydrate the skin—which explains why skin dryness, skin thinning, and increased wrinkling are prevalent among menopausal women. Meanwhile, testosterone and cortisol (the stress hormone) stimulate oil production and inflammation, which may worsen pre-existing skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne.
That’s not all. High insulin levels can fuel androgen production, which can exacerbate acne. Thyroid imbalance can dry skin and prompt hair fall. “No one hormone affects skin quality the most. It would depend on the individual and their specific concerns,” Dr. Taruc explains.
Like Dr. Ramones, Dr. Taruc advocates for a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. These “clichés” can help normalize blood sugar and impede insulin spikes. Managing stress with yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises can also lower cortisol levels.
That said, suddenly switching to a well-rounded routine won’t have an instant effect. If you’re still suffering from the final traces of hormonal flux, such as acne, Dr. Taruc recommends topical treatments. Retinoids, azelaic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid can reduce inflammation and prevent keratin plugging.
“Clinic procedures, such as chemical peels and lasers can also improve skin texture, reduce redness, and manage any hormonal effects on your skin,” she adds. Still, for any lingering hormonal imbalance, consult with a specialist to treat not just the root of the acne but the problem as well.
