Estrogen Action and Gut Microbiome Metabolism in Dermal Health

Abstract

Emerging scientific advances in microbial research linking estrogens and the gut-skin microbiome in reference to dermal health are featured in this narrative review of journal reports and reviews from January 2018 through February 2022. Background information on advances in microbial research along with defining the microbiota and microbiome is presented in brief. The development of and factors that influence the gut microbiome in health and disease as well as the intrinsic and extrinsic factors influencing the skin microbiome and skin aging are summarized. New information on the development and changes of organ microbiomes have exposed similarities between skin and gut structure/function, microbial components/diversity/taxonomy and how they impact the immune response for combating disease and enhancing wellness. Estrogens promote health and support homeostasis in general and directly impact dermal health. Moreover, the gut, based upon the level of the microbial enzyme b-glucuronidase, which regulates estrogen's enterohepatic recirculation, constitutes a gut-skin microbial axis. This axis revolves around the systemically available estrogen to support immune function, counteract inflammation and oxidative stress, and decrease the risk of hormone-dependent skin cancers. These data support the direct effect of estrogens on skin health and the interaction of diet on dermal health via effects on the gut microflora. Finally, the potential for bioactive botanicals containing phytoestrogens or selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) to evade the effects of gut b-glucuronidase expressing flora is proposed that may have a positive impact on skin.

Factors Influencing Skin Aging and the Important Role of Estrogens and Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs)

“…Often the labels microbiota and microbiome are used interchangeably, but these two terms have subtle differences (see recent review for updated microbiome definitions). 4 , 22 In general, microbiota refers to the microorganisms [by type belonging to different kingdoms (Prokaryotes: Bacteria, Archaea; Eukaryotes: Protozoa, Fungi, etc.)] found within a specific environment.…”

“… 4 , 23 , 24 , 27 , 36 Recent reports suggest the skin microbiome has both intrinsic and extrinsic factors that influence skin aging ( Figure 2 ). 4 , 27 , 29 , 30 , 33 , 35 The intrinsic parameters shaping the skin microbiome include age, genetics, gender, immunity, hormones, sleep, stress, and metabolism. 29 , 30 Whereas the extrinsic factors influencing the skin microbiome cover many of the extrinsic – photoaging items, but also include hygiene, beauty routine (cosmetics, etc.)…”

“… 4 , 27 For example, with aging, especially with the associated changes after menopause there are age-related disorders like osteoporosis and osteopenia. 4 Finally, the exchange via the gut-skin axis is known to occur via metabolites and communication through the immune system. Also, ultraviolet B-light enhances vitamin D levels that increase the diversity of the gut microbiome that in turn influences the skin microbiome to enhance skin immune function, increase wound healing and inhibit inflammation.…”

“…Also, ultraviolet B-light enhances vitamin D levels that increase the diversity of the gut microbiome that in turn influences the skin microbiome to enhance skin immune function, increase wound healing and inhibit inflammation. 4 …”

“…Principally, estrogen action and the gut microbiome in dermal health have been covered in detail recently by Lephart and Naftolin, 2022 (Dermatology and Therapy online, hardcopy in press). 4 …”