NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR IN ONTARIO
Eczema and the Hormone Connection
How Hormones Impact Your Skin
Eczema and Hormones
Eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) is more than just dry, itchy skin. It’s a chronic inflammatory condition that often flares during times of stress, hormonal change, or environmental triggers. If you’ve noticed your eczema worsens before your period, during perimenopause, or at times of high stress, hormones may be a key piece of the puzzle.
As a naturopath in Ontario with a focus in skin health and hormones, I often help patients connect the dots between their internal health and their eczema symptoms. Understanding how hormones affect the skin barrier can open up new options for relief.
How Hormones Influence Eczema
Estrogen
Estrogen helps maintain hydration and supports the skin’s barrier function. When levels decline — such as during perimenopause or menopause — the skin may become drier and more prone to flare-ups.
Progesterone
Progesterone influences the immune system and oil gland activity. Shifts in progesterone during the menstrual cycle may trigger itching or worsening patches of eczema in sensitive individuals.
Cortisol (Stress Hormone)
Stress is one of the most common eczema triggers. Cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone, increases inflammation and weakens the skin barrier, leading to more itching and irritation. The “itch-scratch” cycle can then make symptoms even harder to control.
Thyroid Hormones
Thyroid imbalances — especially hypothyroidism — can lead to dry, rough skin and worsen eczema symptoms.
Common Triggers Beyond Hormones
While hormones play an important role, other factors often interact with them to worsen eczema:
Food sensitivities, food intolerances
Environmental irritants (detergents, soaps, fragrances)
Gut health imbalances
Seasonal allergies
Temperature changes
The Naturopathic Approach to Eczema
Naturopathic medicine goes beyond symptom relief to uncover underlying triggers and imbalances. A naturopathic doctor may support patients with eczema through:
Hormone and Thyroid Assessment: Lab testing to evaluate estrogen, progesterone, cortisol, and thyroid function.
Nutrition and Gut Health: Identifying food sensitivities, supporting the microbiome, and reducing inflammatory foods.
Stress and Cortisol Management: Lifestyle strategies, adaptogenic herbs, and mind-body practices.
Topical Care: Recommending gentle, natural skincare that supports the skin barrier.
Individualized Plans: Addressing unique triggers while supporting whole-body health.
Why Work With a Naturopath for Eczema?
Eczema can be frustrating and disruptive, especially when conventional creams or medications only provide temporary relief. A naturopathic doctor with experience in dermatology and hormone health can help identify your unique triggers and create a holistic, sustainable plan for long-term skin support.
The Bottom Line
Eczema isn’t just skin-deep — it’s a reflection of the body’s internal balance, and hormones are often a major player. If your eczema flares around your cycle, during times of stress, or in perimenopause or menopause, it may be time to look deeper.
Working with a naturopath in Ontario who focuses on skin health and hormones can help you uncover the root causes, restore your skin barrier, and finally find relief.
👉 Book a consultation today to learn more about naturopathic options for eczema and hormonal skin health.
Dr. Janna Fung, Naturopathic Doctor
Dr. Janna Fung is a licensed naturopathic doctor with a special interest in dermatology and women’s health. She has a passion for evidence based preventative medicine and strives to empower patients with the knowledge to achieve their optimal health. She understands collaborations is the only way to develop realistic sustainable health/wellness results and strives to develop individualized health goals with patients.
