Testosterone

Testosterone is an androgen — or a male sex hormone — but don’t let the name fool you. While present in much lower levels in women than in men, testosterone is an important part of a woman’s delicate hormonal balance that contributes to vibrant skin and healthy libido.

Testosterone & Your Skin

Testosterone influences the production of oil (sebum), whose antimicrobial properties protect the skin from external aggressors (like pollution) and lock in moisture. At healthy levels, the skin is healthy, dewy, and supple. Lower levels, however, can cause the skin to be drier, thinner, and more prone to fine lines and wrinkles due to transepidermal water loss (TEWL), which is when your skin loses water because of a weakened skin barrier. Those with existing skin conditions, like psoriasis, may also see their conditions worsen.

When testosterone levels are too high, it kicks sebum production into overdrive, clogging pores and possibly enlarging them. Over time, dead skin cells also accumulate in pores and trap bacteria, leading to acne.

Testosterone & Your Health

Research shows that testosterone has antidepressant benefits with the potential to improve mental health in women (and men!). In fact, lower salivary levels of testosterone have been observed in individuals with anxiety and depression. Since male sex hormones also regulate sexual arousal, women with lower testosterone may also experience decreased libido. You may also notice less natural muscle mass and difficulty building muscle, if you are working out.

When your testosterone is higher, expect traits commonly associated with men to appear. Think hair loss on the scalp but excess hair on the face (hirsutism is the official name). You may also experience increased muscle mass and decreased body fat. While difficult to diagnose, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder associated with hirsutism, insulin resistance, and irregular periods, is often associated with higher testosterone. If you notice these symptoms, we recommend consulting your doctor.

BALANCING INGREDIENTS

High

Bis(Tripeptide-1) Copper Acetate

Willow Bark

Resveratrol

Low

Gallic Acid

Snow Mushroom Extract

AHAs (Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid)

Skincare

Our skincare collection contains nature’s most potent botanicals and actives, precisely engineered to target the most common concerns caused by hormonal imbalances. Always endocrine-disruptor free, fragrance-free, and cruelty-free.

“Testosterone, an androgen, is responsible for sexual drive and function, but too much can often lead to acne, excess hair growth, and low libido."

Dr. Alyssa Dweck, MD, OBGYN, medical advisor to Veracity