HPA Axis and Skin Connection

Let's dive into the connection between the HPA Axis & skin health. In humans, the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis plays a major role in cortisol secretion. However, it has been reported that the peripheral HPA axis exists in various organs, including the skin. This then makes the skin act like an Endocrine organ, which takes a tole on overall barrier function.


WHAT IS THE HPA AXIS?
The hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis is one of the body’s neuroendocrine networks that becomes activated by psychological stress. When activated, inflammation and cortisol levels increase, and the sympathetic nervous system also becomes activated.

THE HPA’S CONNECTION TO SKIN HEALTH
The HPA axis exists in various organs, including the skin. An over-stimulated HPA axis and sympathetic nervous system create a compromised skin barrier, impairing the ability of the skin to respond to environmental challenges. This also leads to epidermal water loss.Dehydrated skin with a compromised barrier exacerbates inflammation and can lead to various dermatological conditions such as dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, acne, and rosacea.

REGULATING THE HPA AXIS
Regulating the HPA Axis means improving overall daily habits, such as:

  • Consume an anti-inflammatory diet

  • Avoid caffeine and other stimulants. Swap them out for teas containing nervine herbs

  • Get regular sun exposure

  • Incorporate regular movement

  • Deep breathing exercises

  • Ensure Stress-reducing bodywork such as acupuncture, massages, and corneotherapy

  • Address underlying psychological trauma

  • Address lifestyle/environmental stressors

  • Vagal toning exercises

  • Work with a functional medicine practitioner to address any underlying physiological imbalances

  • Make sure you are having deep, restorative sleeps

SUPPORTING THE SKIN

  • Simplify your skin care regimen

  • Use a nourishing moisturizer that supports the skin barrier with lipids, cholesterol, ceramides, and other skin-identical ingredients

  • Avoid products that dehydrate the skin. Focus on hydration!

  • Work with an aesthetician to nourish and repair the barrier

“Be good to your skin. You’ll wear it every day for the rest of your life.” 

— Renee Rouleau

Jordan RadkeJRAD SKIN Comment