Your Skin During Menopause
Your Skin During Menopause
Dr Zunaid Alli from Edition Clinic on how we can take care of our skin throughout this pivotal change in life
Menopause is a significant and multidimensional physiological phase in a woman’s life. As hormonal levels fluctuate and eventually decline, you will notice physical changes, including noticeable effects on the skin. Understanding these changes can help women prepare and manage their skin health during this transition. We will always advocate for active medical and supplemental treatment plans to support this stage of life, so that you can meet every day with confidence while feeling the best you can.
The primary hormones involved in menopause are oestrogen and progesterone, which play crucial roles in maintaining skin elasticity, hydration, and overall appearance. As menopause approaches, oestrogen levels drop significantly, leading to various skin-related changes:
- Decreased Collagen Production
Oestrogen helps stimulate collagen production, especially Collagen Type 1: a vital protein that maintains skin structure and firmness. Reduced collagen leads to a loss of elasticity, resulting in sagging skin and wrinkles.
A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats and vitamins can support skin health. Regular exercise improves circulation, which can enhance skin vitality. Additionally, managing stress through mindfulness or yoga can positively affect overall wellbeing. A good medical-grade oral collagen supplement is also effective for maintaining skin health.
2. Dryness and Thinning
Lower oestrogen levels can cause the skin to become drier and thinner. This is because oestrogen is essential for maintaining skin moisture levels. Women may notice increased flakiness and rough texture, making the skin appear dull.
Drinking plenty of water and using medical grade skincare with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, peptides and retinol are proven to help strengthen the skin barrier and promote collagen production.
3. Changes in Pigmentation
Hormonal fluctuations can trigger changes in pigmentation, leading to age spots or melasma. These conditions can be exacerbated by sun exposure, making sun protection even more critical during menopause.
We recommend using SPF50 daily, and there are many new formulations that are well tolerated for daily use. Laser therapies and skin peels are particularly effective for treating hyperpigmentation and evening out skin tone.
4. Increased Sensitivity
Many women experience increased skin sensitivity during menopause. This can manifest as redness, irritation, or allergic reactions, making it essential to choose skincare products carefully. A detailed consultation and treatment plan is the best place to start when dealing with sensitivity, with the main aim being control of symptoms and strengthening the skin barrier. Micro-needling, laser therapies and collagen stimulating peels are effective treatment strategies for tackling sensitivity.
Conclusion
Menopause brings about a myriad of changes, and skin health is an essential aspect of this transition. By understanding the hormonal influences and adopting a proactive skincare routine centred around professional treatments and medical grade skincare, women can navigate these changes with confidence. Embracing this new phase of life involves not only accepting the changes but also taking steps to maintain skin health and overall wellbeing.
