Endocrine Controls of Skin Aging

February 2025 in “ Endocrine Reviews ”

Markus Böhm, Agatha Stegemann, Ralf Paus, Konrad Kleszczyński, Pallab Maity, Meinhard Wlaschek, Karin Scharffetter‐Kochanek

IGF-1 growth hormone estrogens retinoids melatonin α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone insulin-like growth factor 1 GH MSH

TLDR Hormones affect skin aging, but only topical retinoids and estrogens are used in treatments now.

The document reviews the role of hormones in skin aging, highlighting the distinction between intrinsic and extrinsic aging processes. It emphasizes the influence of the neuroendocrine system on skin, which acts as an endocrine organ itself. Key hormones such as IGF-1, GH, estrogens, retinoids, and melatonin are discussed for their roles in skin aging. The review also explores emerging endocrine factors like α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone and others. Despite the potential of these hormones, only topical retinoids and estrogens are currently used in clinical practice for anti-aging. The document suggests that further research could lead to new treatments for skin aging.

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