Menopause is completely natural, so why is it having such a big impact on today’s women? Truthfully, a 100 years ago women’s life expectancy was significantly shorter and so menopause symptoms were bundled together and passed off as “old age.”
Now with such strides in healthcare and improved life longevity menopause occurs in what is fast becoming the busiest stage of a women’s life. A time when they are often still caring for teenage children and at the peak of their career. Demands are high and menopause can be difficult to navigate at best, and quite dibilitating at worst.
So how does all this impact your skin and can you really do anything that can make a difference?
Occurring typically in your mid to late 40s or early 50s, hormonal changes, particularly a decline in oestrogen levels, can have various effects on the skin. Some of the key ways in which menopause influences skin health include:
Loss of Elasticity and Collagen: Oestrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining Fibroblast production (our wonderful youth inducing factory), which is essential in maintaining our elastin, collagen, and hyaluronic acid levels in the skin. With a reduction in these key influencers the skin loses its firmness and elasticity, leading to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles.
Dryness and Thinning: Declining oestrogen levels can result in a reduction of oil production and hydration in the skin. This may lead to increased dryness and a thinning of the epidermis, making the skin more prone to irritation and sensitivity. I often hear clients complaining of very itchy, irritated skin, commonly on the neck and lower face. Speaking from experience, this can drive you slightly bonkers!
Loss of Fat Tissue: Oestrogen also helps distribute fat under the skin, contributing to a plump and youthful appearance. As oestrogen levels lower, women often experience a reduction in fat tissue, particularly in the face, which can contribute to a loss of volume (our scaffolding) leading to sagging skin and the formation of the downturn corners of the mouth and the dreaded jowls.
Hot Flushes and Fluctuating Blood Flow: Menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes can cause increased blood flow to the skin. This fluctuation in blood flow may contribute to redness and exacerbate issues like rosacea. This is particularly unkind and more common than you would think. Ladies who’ve had good skin historically can suddenly develop, Rosacea or acne and have a constant battle with camouflaging your skin.
Dark patches: Hormonal fluctuations during menopause can affect melanin production, leading to changes in pigmentation. Some women may experience darkening of certain areas of the skin, commonly known as hyperpigmentation.
Sorry about all the doom and gloom, it’s not all negative as there is now so much that can be done to better prevent and treat these undesirable symptoms The key is to get professional advice and act quickly, Rosacea for example will worsen if not treated effectively from the get-go. Adopting a menopause specific skincare routine that includes moisturising products, sunscreen, and products containing ingredients that promote collagen production and calms redness is crucial. As well as in clinic treatment performed by experienced medical professionals.
Additionally, a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, can positively influence overall skin health during this transitional phase. A reduction in stimulants, such as alcohol, caffeine and spicy foods will also reduce symptoms and skin flare ups. The key point to take away is that menopausal skin feels and acts differently and therefore requires specific care. That moisturiser you’ve been using since you were 20 may no longer cut the mustard, so be pro-active and get ahead of it, to maintain, healthy glowing skin for many years to come.
