Menopause is a natural phase in life that brings with it many physical changes, including those that may be noticeable in your skin. These changes are largely due to hormonal fluctuations, particularly a decrease in oestrogen. Understanding what happens to your skin during menopause can help you adjust your skin care routine and maintain a healthy, radiant complexion.
- THINNING & LOSS OF ELASTIN: During menopause, collagen production slows down. Collagen is the protein responsible for keeping your skin firm and plump. So, as these levels decrease, the skin begins to thin and lose its elasticity, making sagging and fine lines more noticeable. You might also find that your skin bruises more easily or takes longer to heal after minor injuries.
- CHANGES IN TEXTURE & SENSITIVITY: With the reduction in oestrogen, your skin’s ability to repair itself slows down, which can lead to a change in texture. You might notice that your skin becomes rougher and more uneven. Additionally, some women can find that their skin becomes more sensitive during menopause. Products that previously worked well for your skin may suddenly cause irritation or redness, which can be frustrating.
- INCREASED DRYNESS: One of the most noticeable changes during menopause is that your skin may feel drier than before. Oestrogen plays a role in oil production, and as these levels drop, so does the skin’s ability to retain moisture. You might experience flakiness, rough patches, or tightness in the skin, especially on your face and body. Hydrating your skin properly becomes a top priority to combat this.
- AGE SPOTS & PIGMENTATION: Hormonal changes can also cause shifts in your skin’s pigmentation, leading to age spots (also known as ‘sunspots’) or darkened patches of skin. These changes are often exacerbated by years of sun exposure, making sunscreen even more crucial during and after menopause.
HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR SKIN DURING & AFTER MENOPAUSE
- FOCUS ON HYDRATION: Switch to serums containing hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and ceramides. These ingredients help lock in moisture, leaving your skin feeling soft and supple throughout the day. We recommend ZO Skin Health here in our clinic. All the products are designed to encourage your skin to hydrate itself, rather than focusing on adding thick moisturisers that stop the dermis’ natural abilities.
- BOOST COLLAGEN PRODUCTION: To address thinning skin and loss of elasticity, incorporate products with retinoids or peptides into your routine. These ingredients stimulate collagen production, helping to firm the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Regular use of these products can improve texture and resilience over time.
- INCREASE SUN PROTECTION: The decline in collagen and increase in pigmentation make your skin more vulnerable to sun damage. Daily application of a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) is essential to prevent further damage, age spots, and wrinkles.
- BE GENTLE WITH YOUR SKIN: Since menopausal skin tends to be more sensitive, it’s a good idea to choose gentle, fragrance-free products. Harsher exfoliants/overly active ingredients may irritate your skin. Opt for mild, hydrating cleansers with soothing ingredients, such as ZO Hydrating Cleanser.
- CARE FOR YOUR SKIN FROM WITHIN: In addition to topical care, eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins can support your skin’s health from the inside. Foods high in vitamin C (such as citrus fruits) help boost collagen production, while vitamin E (found in nuts and seeds) provides antioxidant protection against environmental damage.
RECOMMENDED SKIN TREATMENTS DURING & AFTER THE MENOPAUSE
- Regular facials that focus on deep hydration can help with menopausal dryness. Treatments like HydraFacial infuse the skin with moisture and antioxidants, helping to plump and revitalise the complexion.
- Intense Pulsed Light: IPL treatments like Lumecca can address pigmentation and sun damage by targeting melanin in the skin, helping to reduce the appearance of age spots and redness, and even out the skin tone.
- Microneedling creates tiny punctures in the skin to stimulate collagen and elastin production. This can improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and promote overall skin rejuvenation. When combined with radio frequency (RF + microneedling = Morpheus8) the results can be even more effective for tightening and firming.
- Exosomes are a great addition to microneedling, which are little messages of youth that improve the skin from within.
- Chemical peels use acids like glycolic, salicylic, TCA and Glutathione to remove the top layer of dead skin cells, encouraging new growth and improving texture. Peels can address concerns such as roughness, pigmentation, and fine lines, and they come in varying strengths, so it’s important to choose the right one for your skin type and concerns.
- Collagen: Taking collagen peptides orally can help boost collagen levels in the skin, improving elasticity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: found in fish oil or flaxseed oil, omega-3s help maintain the skin’s lipid barrier, keeping it hydrated, and reducing inflammation.
- Vitamin D & Calcium: These are crucial for overall skin and bone health, especially as oestrogen levels decline.
Aesthetic adjustments aren’t for everyone. At our Sheffield-based skin clinic, we offer a wide range of cosmetic and supplemental treatments targeting menopausal skin changes.
