It's okay to use hormone replacement therapy and a collagen supplement at the same time. It cannot be said that it is safe to take other herbal remedies and supplements in conjunction with hormone replacement therapy. They are not tested in the same way as drugstore or prescription drugs. They are usually not tested to determine what effect they may have on other medications. Generally speaking, most liquid menopausal supplements are safe to use with HRT, as long as they don't contain ingredients that negatively interact with the hormones being replaced.
However, some supplements, especially herbal remedies, can have hormonal effects on their own, which could increase or hinder the effects of hormone therapy. For example, phytoestrogens found in herbs such as black cohosh and soybeans are plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen in the body, which could lead to an overload of estrogenic activity if combined with hormonal hormonal therapy. That's why it's important to choose supplements carefully and talk to your doctor about any new supplement regimen. Older skin has less collagen and that collagen is weaker, reducing the skin's ability to stay full and thick.
One of the direct connections between estrogen levels and collagen production is found in estrogen receptors, specifically ERα receptors (beta estrogen receptors), which are found in specialized “manufacturing” cells called fibroblasts, which produce collagen. Increasing estrogen levels through hormonal hormone therapy can stimulate collagen production, leading to firmer and more resilient skin. Supplements such as calcium, vitamin D and magnesium can complement hormone therapy by supporting bone health and reduce fatigue. It turns out that one of the effects of taking estrogen through topical estriol or MHT creams is that it can increase collagen levels even after menopause.
If you're considering taking menopausal supplements with hormone replacement therapy, it's essential that you seek professional guidance. Always check with your doctor before adding supplements to your routine, especially if you're undergoing hormone replacement therapy. For example, a supplement with high levels of phytoestrogens may not be recommended for someone who is already receiving hormone therapy, as it could cause excess estrogen in the body. Herbal supplements, such as black cohosh and red clover, can help alleviate menopausal symptoms, but should be used with caution with hormone replacement therapy.
A healthcare professional can help you determine which supplements are safe to take and which may interact with hormone therapy. For example, supplements such as calcium and vitamin D are often taken to improve bone health, since hormone therapy may not always provide sufficient protection against osteoporosis. However, some supplements can cause problems, such as interfering with the body's ability to metabolize hormones or altering its own hormone levels. Women who choose to combine supplements with hormone replacement therapy often do so because they want to address specific problems that hormone replacement therapy alone may not fully alleviate.
