Want to feel 29 forever? The secret to maintaining a youthful appearance may lie with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), says Dr. Martin Braun, a cosmetic rejuvenation specialist in Vancouver. According to clinical studies, women’s hormones are in perfect alignment at 29, making it the time you’ll feel the best in your life. But as we age and approach menopause, estrogen levels decrease and progesterone increases. As a result, brain fog (forgetfulness), weight loss, mood swings and skin elasticity all take a turn for the worse. But Dr. Braun says these negative byproducts of the aging process aren’t inevitable – or irreversible – thanks to BHRT.

BHRT VERSUS TRADITIONAL HORMONE THERAPY
   Up until recently, the only hormone therapy option was to take synthetic chemical pills, such as Premarin or Estrace, to replace lost estrogen. BHRT is comprised of plant derivatives that are processed, so the body can absorb the hormones. The actual concoction is an exact replica of a combination of three estrogens (estrone, estradiol and estriol) you’ll find in the body of a healthy woman in her 20s. A pharmacist combines the three estrogens into a cream that is applied to the face and neck, allowing for an easy bypass of the liver and avoiding blood-clotting incidences that oral estrogens can cause. Each BHRT program is unique to the individual, and the physician prescribes the ideal combination of hormones based on several blood and hormone tests the patient undergoes.

RISKS AND RESULTS
   In 2002, a Women’s Health Initiative study of traditional hormone replacement therapy found that it caused an increase in the incidence of breast cancer, heart disease, stroke and blood clots in users. Though large studies have yet to be performed on the efficacy and safety of BHRTs, smaller studies have found no increase in clotting when compared with oral consumption. And a recent study at the University of Iowa found that of 100 volunteers undergoing BHRT, there was a 96 per cent approval rate. The study also found that 24 of the 37 menopausal symptoms showed marked improvement.

FUNCTION
   As we age, our bodies produce less and less estrogen. In addition to increasing estrogen in the body and thereby easing many menopausal symptoms, bioidenticals may reduce osteoporosis and bone fracture incidents and are proven to boost collagen production, resulting in more resilient and youthful-looking skin.

TIME AND COST
   It’s ideal to start therapy between ages 45 and 55, but it’s never too late, says Dr. Braun. Some of the most dramatic results occur in women who have already experienced menopausal symptoms. A monthly supply of BHRT cream is about $60. Most insurance plans don’t cover it.