Student essay 

EFFECT OF ISOFLAVONES ON POSTMENOPAUSAL SKIN HEALTH. 


Apr 28 / Aarzoo Minocha
As the woman enters menopause i.e. absence of menstrual cycle for 12 consecutive months, estrogen levels declines.The physiological disorders and symptoms observed in postmenopausal women such as hot flashes, low libido, atrophy of skin, genitourinary tract issues,  osteoporosis and cardiovascular problems.

In Skin, a decrease in dermal concentrations,, skin drying and skin atrophy after menopause is identified.Collagen and Elastin present in the dermal layer of the skin provides structural and elasticity to the skin. These are formed by fibroblasts and osteoblasts cells. Fibroblasts cells have receptors for estrogen and androgen.

The decrease in the estrogen level affects the  glycosaminoglycans proliferation and fibroblasts production and fragmentation of elastic fibers , thinning of the epidermal layer. 

Estrogens and Phytoestrogens

Treatment with estrogen will help in morphological modification such as increasing the number of  glycosaminoglycans and fibroblasts. It  not only helps with altering the effects of declining estrogen but arrests the later effects.Some of these plant chemicals, such as phytoestrogens were shown to confer significant long-term health benefits.Phytoestrogens are structurally and functionally similar to human estrogen. There are two types of phytoestrogens, the lignans and the isoflavones.

Isoflavones exhibit biological activities similar to estrogen with structural similarities to both natural and synthetic estrogen.Isoflavones, naturally present in plant sources such as  soybean. They mimic  human estrogen due to their structural resemblance , enabling them to interact with estradiol receptors.They contain the isoflavones genistein and daidzen.Isofavones, particularly genistein, have a higher affinity for the beta subtype of the estrogen receptor present in skin.Among these, equol, the final product of diadzein biotransformation,has clear estrogen-like activity and displays affinity for both the alpha and beta estrogen receptors.

Isoflavones and skin health

While science doesn’t necessarily mandate an exclusively plant-based diet, excessive consumption of animal protein, particularly red and processed meats, pose a risk for accelerated aging and age-related diseases. On the contrary, an article in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition indicates that obtaining more of our protein through plant sources is linked to reduced visible signs of aging along with better overall health.

In summary, protein is an essential component of the human diet, but excess consumption can result in both visible signs of aging and other overall health-related concerns, particularly when protein is sourced from animal products. Plant-based protein, or lean meats cooked using moist-heat or low temperature cooking are the best sources, and ensuring the maximum daily intake is well within the recommended amount.

In most cases, these food supplements contain only isoflavone glycosides, the molecular form that is biologically not active. However, after ingestion the glycosides are transformed by intestinal glucosidases and intestinal bacterial metabolism into the estrogenically active form. The topical application of genistein can protect against the erythremia caused by UV radiation in humans.

REFERENCES

  1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2705153/#b42-cln64_6p505
  2. https://www.medestheticsmag.com/products/collagen-builders/news/22927701/ young-pharmaceuticals-inc-plantderived-isoflavones-show-effectiveness-in-young-phamaceuticals-treatment-for-menopausal-skin
  3. https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jnsv/53/1/53_1_57/_article
  4. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464624000574
  5. https://mibellebiochemistry.com/media/242/download#:~:text=A,very%20interesting%20compounds%20for%20cosmetic
I’m Aarzoo Minocha, a Skin Aesthetician with over 2 years of clinical experience working alongside dermatologists.My work is rooted in an integrative, research-informed approach combining skin science with nutrition, lifestyle, and internal health to support long-term skin function and resilience. I focus on addressing skin concerns at their origin, rather than managing surface-level symptoms.At Skincare by Aarzoo, I offer personalized virtual consultations designed to deliver precise, results-driven routines that are both effective and sustainable.
Aarzoo Minocha, | SKIN NUTRITION INSTITUTE GRADUATE

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does menopause affect skin health?

Menopause leads to a drop in estrogen levels, which accelerates collagen loss. This results in thinner skin, reduced elasticity, dryness and more visible wrinkles, especially within the first few years after menopause.

2. What are soy isoflavones?

Soy isoflavones are plant-based compounds (phytoestrogens) that mimic estrogen in the body. They can bind to estrogen receptors and help compensate for declining hormone levels after menopause.

3. How do isoflavones benefit the skin?

Isoflavones support skin health by stimulating collagen production, improving hydration and elasticity, and reducing wrinkle depth. They may also help protect existing collagen from breakdown

4. Can diet really improve postmenopausal skin?

Yes, nutrition plays a key role. Including soy-based foods (like tofu, soy milk and edamame) can provide isoflavones that support skin structure and overall hormonal balance, helping maintain healthier skin during menopause.
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