Skin care at any point in life is a key element of overall well being. As a person begins to transition through perimenopause, skin care becomes even more essential not only for optimal general health, but also in response to changes that occur in response to menopause. There are several skin issues that can be associated with menopause and learning more about them can help build a support system for the physical and mental effects these changes can bring. The main skin issues reported in relation to menopause are; dryness, thinning, wrinkling, bruising, acne, and growth of facial hair. .

Why does Menopause Affect Skin

As with most menopause-related symptoms, fluctuations in hormones are the main source. As a person’s oestrogen levels change, the effects will be noticed in the skin due to oestrogen’s role in oil or sebum production.  When oestrogen levels decrease the skin may not produce as much oil and retain water which results in dry skin and thinner skin. Collagen production reduces during this time which gives skin its frame and fullness. This can result in skin appearing more wrinkled and fine lines more pronounced. 

Acne and facial hair are the result of an increase in androgens in the body, these hormones are usually associated with male puberty and the effects are also the same. Not everyone will experience all of these skin related health issues during their menopause journey, but knowing their causes and treatment options helps to find the right resources and options.

Managing Menopausal Skin Changes

Topical Treatment

Not everyone will experience the same level of skin changes during this time, still having a good skin care routine is essential for everyone. The British Skin Foundation reports that 1 in 41 women will be diagnosed with a melanoma in their lifetime, which means that using sun protection is vital for everyone and even more important for those who skin is thinning due to menopause. 

In addition to sun protection, having a moisturiser for the face that includes ceramides in the ingredients may be beneficial for retaining moisture. Not only the face may need moisture, but rather the entire body. Finding a moisturiser that is natural and light for the body can also alleviate dry skin symptoms. Fast absorption moisturisers are also useful as they will not be an impediment or compounding factor during a hot flash. 

Other Forms of Treatment

Skin health isn’t just important for overall health, but it also has an impact on a person’s mental health. This is why it is important to speak with a dermatologist or with another medical professional for treatments that are suited for each individual. People who notice the skin beginning to wrinkle may want to learn more about Botox treatments or other types of aesthetic treatments with a licensed healthcare provider.  

People who begin to develop facial hair might want to learn more about hair removal creams but it is important to note that not all are meant for use on the face. Other types of treatments for facial hair could be laser removal. 

Other options for skin changes should be discussed with a doctor and they can determine if a more involved treatment is necessary. This could even include hormone therapy when prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Understand the Whole Picture

Most people report having multiple menopause symptoms across their journey. This is why a holistic approach to treating symptoms is vital to a successful treatment plan. Lifestyle factors have an impact on the skin and multiple other areas of wellbeing such as weight management, hair health, and sleep. Adding antioxidant-rich foods to your day-to-day can help with skin health and a overall well-balanced diet has an impact on skin appearance.

Physical exercise also helps with skin health. This is mainly due to physical exercise’s effect on cardiovascular health which in turn provides the body with better circulation. Finding the right exercise is also necessary so it provides relief to symptoms and is easy to maintain. Walking, yoga, and even dancing can be included with other types of more obvious physical activities like sports or going to a gym.

There is not a single solution for managing skin health during menopause but having the awareness of what can change and why helps to optimise the treatment plan for each individual. The biggest takeaway should be that speaking with a licensed healthcare professional about changes to your skin is the first step. Devising a plan with a doctor will provide the safest, most effective individualised results.