Understanding How Menopause Affects the SkiN
Curious how menopause changes your skin?
Understanding How Menopause Affects the Skin
Menopause marks a significant transition in a woman's life, bringing with it various physical and emotional changes. Among these, skin changes can be particularly noticeable. As estrogen levels decline during menopause, women may experience a variety of skin issues. This post explores the key ways menopause affects the skin and offers tips on how to manage these changes.
Estrogen is a hormone that plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health. It stimulates the production of collagen and oils, which keep the skin plump, firm, and hydrated. As estrogen levels drop during menopause, these functions diminish, leading to several skin-related issues.
While these changes can be challenging, it’s not all doom and gloom! There are several strategies that can help manage menopausal skin issues and maintain a healthy complexion.
Common Skin Changes During Menopause
1. Dryness & Dehydration
One of the most common skin complaints during menopause is increased dryness. The decrease in estrogen results in lower oil production, which can make the skin feel dry and tight. This dryness can also lead to itching, known as pruritus, which can be particularly uncomfortable. An unfortunate side effect of dryness is also an increased number of fine lines and wrinkles with the skin appearing more crepey.
Correction - Hydration is Key!
Keeping the skin well-hydrated is essential. Using serums, oils and rich, nourishing creams can help combat dryness and improve skin elasticity. Look for products containing hyaluronic acid, omega oils and ceramides which are known for their hydrating properties. In-clinic treatments such as bio-remodellers are also a fantastic way to give the skin a big hydration surge!
2. Loss of Elasticity
With less collagen being produced, the skin loses its elasticity and ability for the skin to “snap back”, particularly around the jawline and neck. The skin may also appear thinner and more fragile.
Correction – Clinical Treatments!
Clinical treatments such as SkinPen can address menopausal skin concerns. Microneedling stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, which helps in reducing the appearance of wrinkles, resulting in smoother, more youthful-looking skin. SkinPen works by initiating a three-step process that activates the skin's natural healing mechanisms.
3. Wrinkles and Fine Lines
The reduction in collagen and elastin, along with the decrease in skin moisture, accelerates the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. While aging naturally contributes to wrinkles, menopause can make them more pronounced, particularly around the eyes, mouth, and forehead.
Correction - Incorporate Skincare!
Products such as retinoids, derived from vitamin A, can help increase cell turnover and stimulate collagen production, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and improving skin texture. Skincare to specifically formulated to treat menopausal skin such a Emepelle is highly recommended! Utilising M.E.P technology, this menopause specific skincare range is a non-hormonal oestrogen receptor stimulator that works to plump, hydrate and retore the skin!
4. Increased Sensitivity
Hormonal changes can make the skin more sensitive to irritants, such as soaps, detergents, and even certain fabrics. Women may find that their skin reacts more strongly to products they previously used without issue. Decreased estrogen levels can cause the skin to become itchy, sensitive, or irritated. Furthermore, when we experience hot flushes, the skin tends to sweat which can also cause disruptions to the skin’s barrier leading to sensitivities.
Correction – Address your Skin Barrier!
Stronger is not always better when we treat the skin. In fact, it can often be detrimental to a dry, sensitised skin. Incorporating barrier protecting products into your skincare is a great way to calm and correct an impaired barrier. Clinical treatments such as Healite II will also stimulate cellular activity and promote healing as it does not involve disrupting the skins barrier.
5. Hyperpigmentation
Some women may notice the development of dark spots or hyperpigmentation, this is often due to a combination of hormonal changes and sun exposure over the years coming to the skins surface. A multifaceted treatment approach is best when addressing pigmentation concerns.
Correction - Sun Protection and Pigment Inhibitors!
Protecting the skin from UV damage is more important than ever. Regular use of can prevent further damage and reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation. It’s also wise to wear protective clothing and avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours. Clinical treatments such as depigmenting peels, laser or IPL are fantastic ways to correct pigment concerns.
Consult with a professional
If menopausal skin changes are particularly bothersome, it’s a good idea to consult with a professional to address concerns and devise a treatment plan. This may include commencing treatments such as topical therapies, clinical treatments, or even hormone therapy if appropriate.
Menopause can bring about significant changes in the skin, from dryness and sensitivity to wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. Understanding these changes and adopting a proactive skincare routine and clinical treatments can help manage symptoms and keep the skin looking healthy and vibrant. While the transition may require some adjustments, it also offers an opportunity to focus on self-care and embrace the changes with grace and confidence.
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Written by Jessie Anderson, Cosmetic and Dermal Nurse
Jessie is an Registered Nurse and Dermal Clinician with 15 years of experience in the aesthetic industry, specialising in plastics and skin cancer. Her passion lies in providing comprehensive, holistic and fertility friendly treatments tailored to address all skin concerns, ensuring that each patient receives personalised care that meets their unique needs.