Soy Protein Reduces Wrinkles In Postmenopausal Skin, Study Finds

Healthy skin aging starts from within, but it's not quite as complex as you might think. In fact, a skin-supporting diet looks a whole lot like eating for overall longevity: prioritizing whole, natural foods; getting enough protein; and eating antioxidant-rich meals.

A study published in the journal Nutrients found that dietary soy protein supplementation with isoflavones may improve skin photoaging1, including wrinkles and pigmentation concerns, and increase skin hydration in postmenopausal women. 

Isoflavones (also known as phytoestrogens) are plant-based components found in foods like soybeans that mimic a similar action of estrogen in the body—hence, why they may be so beneficial during a time when women experience the most significant dip in estrogen (aka, after menopause). 

Now, there are a few things to call out here: First, the study only measured white women, specifically women with Fitzpatrick skin types I, II, and III—which means pale skin, fair skin, and light-to-medium white skin. So, for these results to be confirmed across all skin tones and skin types, we need more research.

Next, the exact reasons behind the skin improvement may be multifaceted. First, researchers note that these isoflavones may promote cell proliferation, act as antioxidants, and exert anti-inflammatory3 and anti-cancer4 properties in the full body. 

On that note, there's a common fear that isoflavones found in tofu may increase the risk of cancer in postmenopausal women. However, a comprehensive review from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) concluded that isoflavones do not increase the risk of breast, thyroid, or uterine cancer risk in postmenopausal women. 

Still, if you have any lingering concerns, we suggest consulting a health care professional before making any changes to your diet.

In the skin, isoflavones and other phytoestrogens have been shown to increase hyaluronic acid concentrations and improve the content and quality of collagen—both of which decline naturally with age, contributing to drier, looser skin over time. 

However, soy protein is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to building a skin-supporting eating pattern. You'll want to ensure you get enough carotenoids (most often found in orange and red produce, like carrots and bell peppers), as well as omega-3s (found in salmon, avocado, walnuts, etc.). 

A study found that isoflavones found in soy protein may improve skin photoaging, including wrinkles and pigmentation, and increase skin hydration in postmenopausal women.