NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR IN ONTARIO
The Hormone Skin Hair Connection
How Hormones Impact Skin Health
Hormones + Skin + Hair Health
When it comes to skin and hair health, what’s happening on the outside is often a reflection of what’s happening inside the body. Hormonal imbalances, gut health, stress, and environmental factors can all leave their mark — from breakouts and dryness to thinning hair and changes in skin texture.
Among these influences, hormones play a particularly powerful role. They affect oil production, hydration, inflammation, and even pigmentation. Understanding the link between hormones and skin health can help explain why acne, eczema, or hair loss may show up at certain stages of life — and why working with a naturopath in Ontario can help you find long-term solutions.
How Hormones Influence Skin and Hair
Estrogen
Estrogen supports collagen production, cell turnover, and skin hydration. Low or fluctuating levels — such as during puberty, perimenopause, or menopause — can lead to breakouts, dryness, wrinkles, or thinning skin.
Progesterone
Progesterone regulates the sebaceous (oil) glands that keep skin naturally hydrated. Fluctuations, especially the surge before menstruation, can increase oil production and trigger hormonal acne in sensitive individuals.
Cortisol (Stress Hormone)
Cortisol is released in response to stress. When levels stay high, it triggers inflammation that worsens eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Chronic stress can also weaken the skin barrier, setting up a frustrating cycle of irritation, itching, and flare-ups.
Thyroid Hormones
Thyroid hormones regulate skin hydration, texture, and cell turnover. Low thyroid activity (hypothyroidism) can cause dry, rough skin, brittle nails, and hair thinning. High thyroid activity (hyperthyroidism) may lead to flushed, warm skin and fragile hair that sheds more easily.
Androgens and Testosterone
Androgens, including testosterone and DHEA, stimulate oil production and hair growth. Excess androgen activity — common in conditions like PCOS — can lead to oily skin, cystic acne, unwanted facial or body hair, and thinning scalp hair.
Insulin and Blood Sugar Regulation
High insulin levels, often linked to diets high in sugar and refined carbohydrates, can trigger acne and excess oil production by stimulating androgen activity. Maintaining stable blood sugar is a key part of hormone-related skin health.
Common Skin and Hair Concerns Related to Hormones
Many people seek out naturopathic dermatology support for conditions such as:
Acne (including hormonal acne along the jawline and chin)
Perioral dermatitis
Hair loss or thinning
Chronic urticaria (hives)
How a Naturopath Can Help
If you’ve been struggling with ongoing skin or hair issues, it can be frustrating to treat only the surface symptoms without addressing the root cause. A naturopathic doctor takes a deeper look at your hormonal health, digestion, stress, and lifestyle factors to create a personalized plan.
That might include:
Reviewing and interpreting lab work related to hormones, thyroid, or nutrient status
Supporting healthy hormone balance through nutrition, supplements, or bioidentical hormones (for perimenopause and menopause)
Stress and cortisol management strategies
Blood sugar regulation plans to reduce insulin spikes
Natural skin and hair support, from anti-inflammatory nutrition to topical care
The Bottom Line
Your skin and hair are windows into your internal health — and hormones are often the key. If you’re experiencing persistent acne, dry skin, hair loss, or other concerns tied to hormones, know that you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Working with a naturopath in Ontario who has a focus in hormones, skin health, and dermatology can help you uncover the root causes and create a plan that works for you.
👉 Book a consultation today to learn more about how naturopathic medicine can support your skin, hair, and overall hormone 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.
