A prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study on the influence of a hormone replacement therapy on skin aging in postmenopausal women

Background There is mounting evidence that menopause affects some functions of the skin. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) appears to limit some of the climacteric aspects of cutaneous aging. Objective In the light of a growing interest in the endocrinological influence of skin, we performed a study evaluating the effects of HRT on skin aging in postmenopausal women. Methods Forty non-hysterectomized, postmenopausal women were included in this prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study on the influence of oral sequential treatment with a combination of 2 mg 17 beta-estradiol/10 mg clydrogesterone (Femostono((R))) for seven 28-day cycles. Skin elasticity, skin surface lipids, skin hydration and skin thickness were measured by non-invasive methods, and both adverse-event profile and clinical-dermatological status were evaluated. Results After 7 months of HRT, skin elasticity increased significantly at the right ramus of the mandible, while skin hydration tended to improve significantly at the right upper arm (inner side); skin thickness improved significantly but skin surface lipids did not. Absolute effects did not differ significantly between HRT and placebo patients. A dermatological evaluation was largely consistent with measurement results. Safety and tolerability of HRT were positive. Conclusion The results showed improvements in the parameters involved in skin aging in the HRT group as compared to baseline. While skin aging Is no indication for systemic hormone supplementation, a positive effect on aging skin can be observed.