What is DHEA? Learn About DHEA Cream, and DHEA Supplements

DHEA is a hormone that gets attention in health circles for good reason. You may have heard about it from friends or seen it at your local health store. But what exactly is it? What types of DHEA supplements are available? And why do so many people consider adding it to their wellness routine?

DHEA Explained

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) has several functions in your body, but primarily DHEA is used to make other hormones, including estrogen and testosterone [1]. DHEA levels peak when you're in your 20s. After that, they drop about 10% each decade. By the time you reach 70, your DHEA levels may be only 10-20% of what they were at their peak [2]. This natural decline has led many people to investigate DHEA supplements as they age.

DHEA Supplements

• Pills or capsules
• Creams
• Gels
• Drops

Each form has its own pros and cons. What works best depends on your personal needs and preferences.

DHEA plays a role in many body functions:

• It helps maintain muscle mass
• It supports bone health
• It contributes to skin health
• It plays a part in brain function
• It helps make other hormones your body needs [3]

DHEA for Women and Men

As our bodies change with age, hormone shifts can affect how we feel. Many people notice changes in their energy, mood, skin, and overall sense of well-being.

DHEA for Women

In women, DHEA serves as a precursor to both estrogen and testosterone. Women produce smaller amounts of testosterone than men, but it remains important for energy, mood, and sexual health. As women age, especially after menopause, hormone levels change. DHEA supplements may help support the body's natural processes during this time [4].

DHEA for Men

In men, DHEA primarily converts to testosterone, and testosterone affects muscle mass, energy levels, and sexual function. As men age, both DHEA and testosterone levels naturally decline, which leads to some men considering DHEA supplements to support their body's hormone production [5].

The Science Behind DHEA

Your body makes DHEA in the adrenal glands and DHEA then travels through your bloodstream. Your body uses DHEA as a building block; a raw material for making other hormones. When needed, your body can turn DHEA into estrogen or testosterone [6]. This process happens in many tissues throughout your body.

What is DHEA Sulfate

Your body converts some DHEA to DHEA Sulfate which is a more stable form of DHEA that circulates in your blood and gets converted back to DHEA as needed.

What is 7-Keto® DHEA

”7-Keto® DHEA” is a registered trademark referring to 7-oxo-DHEA, a natural metabolite of DHEA which is marketed for metabolic support and weight management, without hormonal activity.
7-Keto® is a registered trademark of Lonza Consumer Health Inc. (or its affiliates)
We are not affiliated with or endorsed by Lonza Consumer Health Inc. (or its affiliates)”

What Is DHEA Cream?

DHEA cream is a topical product that contains DHEA. You apply it directly to your skin, where it absorbs into your body. Some people prefer cream over pills because:

• Avoids the digestive system
• It can be applied to specific areas
• It's easy to use as part of a daily routine

Bioidentical DHEA

Bioidentical DHEA has the same chemical structure as DHEA your body makes naturally. This means your body processes it in the same way it would process its own DHEA.

Micronized DHEA

Micronized DHEA has been processed to create very small particles. These tiny particles may absorb better when applied to skin or taken orally.

DHEA can be both Micronized and Bioidentical.

DHEA Over the Counter: What to Know

In the United States, DHEA is sold as a dietary supplement. This means you can buy it without a prescription, but it is always recommended that you speak a medical professional before starting DHEA of any other supplementation.

DHEA vs. Other Hormones and Supplements

Pregnenolone and DHEA

Pregnenolone and DHEA work together in your body. Pregnenolone comes first in the hormone pathway, and your body converts some pregnenolone into DHEA. Some people take both, while others choose one or the other based on their needs.

Pregnenolone vs DHEA: Which to Choose?

• Pregnenolone is made from cholesterol and is the first hormone in the pathway
• DHEA comes next in the pathway
• Pregnenolone can become DHEA or other hormones like progesterone
• DHEA primarily becomes estrogen and testosterone [7]

DHEA Research: What Science Shows

Why take DHEA at Night?

DHEA is naturally released in the evening, and nighttime DHEA supplementation may potentially enhance sleep quality and hormonal balance in aging individuals [8].

DHEA for Skin Health

Some research suggests DHEA may support skin health. A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that DHEA cream application was associated with improvements in skin hydration and thickness in both men and women [9].

DHEA for Bone Health

Research has looked at DHEA's role in bone health. A study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that DHEA supplementation was associated with small increases in bone mineral density in older adults with low DHEA levels [10].

DHEA for Cognitive Performance

A systematic review of randomized clinical trials found limited evidence for DHEA's effects on cognitive performance. One small study did show improvements in visual-spatial performance in women, but other studies showed no significant benefits [11].

Who Might Consider DHEA?

• People in their 40s, 50s, and beyond
• Those looking to support their body's natural processes
• People interested in skin health
• Those seeking to maintain their vitality as they age

Who Should Avoid DHEA?

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• People with hormone-sensitive conditions
• Those with certain cancers or cancer history
• People with liver problems
• Those taking certain medications
• People with PCOS

DHEA may not be right for:

• People with Diabetes
• People with High Cholesterol

Always talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have health concerns or take medications [12].

Using DHEA Safely

• Start with a low amount and see how your body responds
• Keep track of how you feel
• Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider
• Have regular check-ups
• Don't exceed recommended amounts

Common Questions About DHEA

How long does it take to notice effects?

Everyone's body is different. Some people notice changes within weeks, while others may take longer. Give your body time to adjust.

Can I take DHEA with other supplements?

DHEA may interact with some supplements and medications. Talk to your healthcare provider about everything you take.

How much DHEA should I use?

The right amount varies from person to person. Follow package directions or your healthcare provider's advice.

Is natural always better than synthetic?

Not necessarily. What matters most is quality and how your body responds. Bioidentical DHEA matches what your body makes, but quality control is important regardless of source.

Are there differences in how men and women should use DHEA?

Yes. Men and women may need different amounts of DHEA based on their natural hormone levels. Women may be more sensitive to DHEA's effects, while men might need different amounts to notice benefits. Your healthcare provider can help determine what's right for you.

Are DHA and DHEA the same thing?

Despite similar names, DHA and DHEA are completely different substances:

• DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oil
• DHEA is a hormone made by your adrenal glands

DHA supports brain and eye health. DHEA is a hormone precursor. They serve different functions in your body, so be careful not to confuse them when shopping.

The Bottom Line on DHEA

DHEA is a natural hormone that plays many roles in your body. As you age, your DHEA levels naturally decline. Some people choose to use DHEA supplements or creams as part of their wellness routine. Research on DHEA shows mixed results. While some studies suggest benefits for skin health, bone health, and overall well-being, others show limited effects. If you're curious about DHEA, talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you decide if it's right for you based on your health history and goals. Remember that supplements are just one part of a healthy lifestyle. Good nutrition, regular exercise, quality sleep, and stress management remain the foundation of well-being at any age.

References:

 

1. Labrie F, Luu-The V, Labrie C, Simard J. DHEA and its transformation into androgens and estrogens in peripheral target tissues: intracrinology. Front Neuroendocrinol. 2001 Jul;22(3):185-212. doi: 10.1006/frne.2001.0216. PMID: 11456468.
2. Orentreich N, Brind JL, Rizer RL, Vogelman JH. Age changes and sex differences in serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate concentrations throughout adulthood. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 1984 Sep;59(3):551-5. doi: 10.1210/jcem-59-3-551. PMID: 6235241.
3. Traish AM, et al. "Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)—A precursor steroid or an active hormone in human physiology." J Sex Med. 2011;8(11):2960-2982.
4. Labrie F. DHEA, important source of sex steroids in men and even more in women. Prog Brain Res. 2010;182:97-148. doi: 10.1016/S0079-6123(10)82004-7. PMID: 20541662.
5. Morales AJ, Nolan JJ, Nelson JC, Yen SS. Effects of replacement dose of dehydroepiandrosterone in men and women of advancing age. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 1994 Jun;78(6):1360-7. doi: 10.1210/jcem.78.6.7515387. Erratum in: J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1995 Sep;80(9):2799. PMID: 7515387.
6. Miller WL, Auchus RJ. "The molecular biology, biochemistry, and physiology of human steroidogenesis and its disorders." Endocr Rev. 2011;32(1):81-151.
7. Miller WL, Auchus RJ. The molecular biology, biochemistry, and physiology of human steroidogenesis and its disorders. Endocr Rev. 2011 Feb;32(1):81-151. doi: 10.1210/er.2010-0013. Epub 2010 Nov 4. Erratum in: Endocr Rev. 2011 Aug;32(4):579. PMID: 21051590; PMCID: PMC3365799..
8. Yen SS. Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate and longevity: new clues for an old friend. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2001 Jul 17;98(15):8167-9. doi:10.1073/pnas.161278698. PMID: 11459947; PMCID: PMC37415.
9. Nouveau S, Bastien P, Baldo F, de Lacharriere O. Effects of topical DHEA on aging skin: a pilot study. Maturitas. 2008 Feb 20;59(2):174-81. doi:10.1016/j.maturitas.2007.12.004. Epub 2008 Feb 1. PMID: 18242894.
10. von Mühlen D, Laughlin GA, Kritz-Silverstein D, Bergstrom J, Bettencourt R. Effect of dehydroepiandrosterone supplementation on bone mineral density, bone markers, and body composition in older adults: the DAWN trial. Osteoporos Int. 2008 May;19(5):699-707. doi: 10.1007/s00198-007-0520-z. Epub 2007 Dec 15. PMID: 18084691; PMCID: PMC2435090.
11. Sultana F, Davis SR, Islam RM. Effect of dehydroepiandrosterone therapy on cognitive performance among postmenopausal women: a systematic review of randomized clinical trial data. Menopause. 2023 Nov 1;30(11):1167-1173. doi: 10.1097/GME.0000000000002251. Epub 2023 Oct 2. PMID: 37788418.
12. WebMD. "DHEA — Uses, Side Effects, and More."