Testosterone is an important hormone that plays a role in various processes in the body. While testosterone is often associated with masculinization, it can have side effects for both men and women. Two notable side effects of increased testosterone levels are acne and hair loss.
Acne is perhaps the most well-known side effect of testosterone. Testosterone causes the sebaceous glands in the skin to produce more sebum, an oily substance. Excess sebum combined with dead skin cells can clog pores and lead to acne breakouts. Both men and women can develop acne from high testosterone, though it tends to be more severe in men. Testosterone-fueled acne often manifests as deep, painful cysts on the face, back, chest, and other areas with many oil glands. Acne can cause permanent scarring if not properly treated. Reducing testosterone levels, either directly or by blocking its conversion to DHT, may improve acne.
Hair loss or balding is another side effect seen primarily in men as they age. The mechanism involves testosterone being converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which binds to hair follicles on the scalp. It causes the follicles to shrink and produce thinner, shorter hairs over time. Eventually the follicle stops producing hair altogether leading to baldness. Genetics dictates one's sensitivity to DHT. Excess testosterone in the system accelerates male pattern baldness in those genetically predisposed. Medications like finasteride that block DHT or lower overall testosterone can slow hair loss.
While acne and balding are two of the most noticeable testosterone side effects, there are others worth mentioning:
- Increased body and facial hair growth - Testosterone stimulates hair follicles all over the body, not just the scalp. Many men find they develop thicker, coarser body and facial hair starting in puberty when testosterone rises. Excess hair can be difficult for women with hormonal conditions like PCOS.
- Lower voice - The larynx grows and vocal chords thicken under the influence of testosterone during puberty. This results in a permanently deeper voice in men. Women with high testosterone may also have a huskier voice.
- Reduced fertility - Very high testosterone hampers fertility in both men and women by suppressing natural LH and FSH levels. It can also shrink the testicles and impair sperm production in males.
- Cardiovascular issues - Studies link abnormally high testosterone, especially in conjunction with anabolic steroid abuse, to increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular events. It adversely affects cholesterol profiles.
- Mood disturbances - While low testosterone is more famously linked to depression, excessively high levels can also destabilize mood and induce aggression, anxiety, mania or other behavioral changes. This effect seems more pronounced when it rapidly fluctuates.
In most healthy individuals, the body regulates testosterone production to keep levels optimized. However, medical conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome or tumors on the testes/adrenal glands can drive overproduction of testosterone and lead to symptoms like acne outbreaks, hair loss and hirsutism. If side effects become problematic, treatment may require addressing the underlying cause of the hormonal imbalance. Options include medication to lower testosterone, block conversion to DHT, or modulate endocrine function. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is also beneficial.
If you are experiencing adverse effects potentially related to heightened testosterone, consult a physician to explore treatment options. Bloodwork helps determine if hormone levels are truly abnormal. At Balance Hormone Clinic, our experts can provide complete testosterone testing and help customize a treatment plan suited to your unique needs. With an integrative approach including medications, nutritional counseling and lifestyle changes, we can help mitigate testosterone side effects so you can feel your best. Contact us today to take control of your hormone health!
