Testosterone, DHEA and Aging In Men

The male sex hormone testosterone is well known for building muscle mass, boosting sex drive, and increasing energy levels. Yet testosterone also has important roles in other areas of the body, including skin health.

Men produce highest levels of testosterone in their youth. As they age, their testosterone production gradually decreases. By the age of 50 or 60, levels are only half their youthful peaks. Fatigue, low sex drive, depression, and irritability are hallmark symptoms. But testosterone deficiency can also affect the quality of the skin, causing fine wrinkling along the corners of the mouth as well as general thinning of the skin.

Men with atopic dermatitis tend to have lower levels of both testosterone and the "female" hormone estrogen, according to a recent study. (Men and women produce both "male" and "female" sex hormones). While treatment with hormones may not address the primary cause of the skin condition, it may point to other problems which relate to hormone levels too, such as decreased sex drive, hair loss and tendency to gain weight around the waist.

DHEA is an important hormone which helps maintain a vibrance to the muscles and therefore better skin tone. DHEA is one of the "androgen" hormones, and similar to testosterone, tends to be higher in men than in women. With aging, DHEA levels decrease and the ability to maintain full-bodied muscle decreases as well. The skin overlying these muscles therefore has less to cover and begins to sag a bit. Exercise is the first important step in retaining as much muscle as possible (keep those "smile" muscles active!!), but checking DHEA levels can provide an important clue as well.

Taking DHEA without a need is not recommended as this hormone can cause acne and excessive facial hair growth and may aggravate prostate enlargement in men. By testing the DHEA level BEFORE any supplementation is begun, one can see if, and how much, DHEA support may be required...and avoid possible side effects.

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References:

1. Bolognia JL. Aging skin. Am J Med 1995 Jan 16;98(1A):99S-103S.
2. Ebata T, Itamura R, et al. Serum sex hormone levels in adult patients with atopic dermatitis. J Dermatol 1996 Sep; 23(9): 603-5.
3. Vaillant L, Callens A. Hormone replacement treatment and skin aging. Therapie [French] 1996; 51(1): 67-70.

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