Your skin reflects your internal hormonal health and changes throughout life. During puberty, rising androgens increase oil, causing clogged pores and acne. In the menstrual cycle, estrogen smooths and hydrates skin early on, while progesterone before menstruation can cause puffiness and breakouts.

Pregnancy brings high estrogen and progesterone levels, often giving a glow but sometimes causing oiliness, melasma, or rashes. After childbirth, estrogen drops sharply, especially during breastfeeding, leading to dryness and sensitivity.

In menopause, lower estrogen and collagen make skin thinner, drier, and less elastic, with fine lines. Men’s skin also changes as testosterone declines, becoming thinner and less oily.

Stress raises cortisol, which can cause breakouts and damage collagen, making skin rough or inflamed. Thyroid imbalances affect texture—underactive thyroid causes dryness; overactive thyroid can cause oiliness.

Hormonal conditions like insulin resistance may cause thickened skin or slow healing. Watching your skin texture can provide early clues to hormonal health and help guide better care for your skin and body.