Skincare During Menopause: Understanding and Managing Changes

Skincare is a vital part of overall well-being at any stage of life, but it becomes especially important during the transition through perimenopause and menopause. Changes in hormone levels can affect the skin in several ways, including dryness, thinning, wrinkling, bruising, acne, and the growth of facial hair. Understanding these changes and how to address them can support both physical and mental well-being during this phase.

Why Does Menopause Affect the Skin?

The primary cause of menopausal skin changes is fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly the decline in oestrogen. Oestrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health by supporting oil (sebum) production and water retention.

When oestrogen levels drop, the following changes can occur:

• Dryness and Thinning: Reduced oil production and water retention result in drier, thinner skin.
• Loss of Collagen: Declining collagen levels, which provide structure and fullness to the skin, lead to the appearance of wrinkles and more pronounced fine lines.
• Acne and Facial Hair: Increased androgen levels can cause acne and stimulate the growth of facial hair, similar to changes seen during male puberty.

Not everyone will experience all of these changes, but being informed about potential effects can help you take proactive steps to address them.

Managing Menopausal Skin Changes

Topical Treatments

Developing a good skincare routine is essential for everyone, regardless of the severity of skin changes.

1. Sun Protection:
   Protecting your skin from UV damage is critical, particularly as thinning skin becomes more vulnerable. Using sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is recommended. Skin melanoma accounted for 4% of all new cancer diagnoses in the EU in 2020, highlighting the importance of sun protection.
2. Moisturisers:
   • Look for facial moisturisers containing ceramides, which help retain moisture.
   • For the body, choose light, fast-absorbing moisturisers to combat dryness without exacerbating discomfort during hot flushes.

Other Forms of Treatment

Skin health also affects mental well-being, making it important to explore treatments tailored to your needs.

• Aesthetic Treatments:
  • Options like Botox or other wrinkle-reducing treatments can be discussed with a licensed dermatologist.
• Facial Hair Management:
  • Hair removal creams may offer relief, but ensure they are safe for use on the face. Laser hair removal is another option to consider.
• Advanced Therapies:
  • Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can sometimes improve skin health as part of a broader treatment plan. Discuss this with your doctor to determine if it’s suitable for you.

A Holistic Approach to Skin Health

Skin health during menopause is interconnected with other aspects of well-being. A holistic approach can help manage multiple symptoms simultaneously.

1. Nutrition:
   • Incorporate antioxidant-rich foods like berries, leafy greens, and nuts into your diet to support skin health.
   • A well-balanced diet benefits not only the skin but also overall physical and mental health.
2. Physical Activity:
   • Regular exercise improves cardiovascular health, which enhances circulation and nourishes the skin.
   • Low-impact activities such as walking, yoga, and dancing are excellent options for those experiencing other menopause symptoms.

Understand the Whole Picture

Managing skin changes during menopause requires a personalised approach. Awareness of the potential changes and their underlying causes is the first step to finding effective solutions.

The most important takeaway is to consult a licensed healthcare professional about any concerns. A doctor or dermatologist can help create an individualised treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and ensures safe and effective results.

Menopause is a natural phase of life, and with the right support and care, you can navigate its challenges with confidence and comfort.