Utah Master Esthetician Practice Exam

What hormone plays a significant role in collagen production within the skin?

1. Progesterone

2. Testosterone

3. Estrogen

4. Cortisol

The correct answer is: Estrogen

Estrogen plays a significant role in collagen production within the skin, which is crucial for maintaining skin elasticity, hydration, and overall structural integrity. This hormone is primarily produced in the ovaries and has a direct influence on skin cells, stimulating fibroblasts to produce collagen and elastin. As estrogen levels fluctuate, especially during menopause, many individuals experience a decrease in collagen production, leading to signs of aging such as wrinkles and sagging skin. The other hormones listed, while they have their own important physiological roles, do not have the same direct impact on collagen synthesis as estrogen does. For instance, progesterone is more involved in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy, and although it influences skin health, its role in collagen production is not as pronounced. Testosterone, commonly associated with muscle and hair growth, influences skin characteristics, but its effect on collagen production is minimal compared to estrogen. Lastly, cortisol, while a stress hormone that serves many functions in the body, can actually have negative effects on skin health when present in high levels, including the breakdown of collagen. Thus, the primary hormone influencing collagen production in the skin is indeed estrogen.