Navigating the Change: How Menopause Affects Your Skin and What You Can Do About It

Menopause is a natural and inevitable phase in a woman's life, signaling the end of her reproductive years. While it brings about various changes in the body, one aspect that often takes center stage is its impact on the skin. Hormonal fluctuations during menopause can lead to several changes in skin health, requiring a tailored approach to skincare. In this blog post, we will explore the effects of menopause on the skin and offer practical tips for maintaining healthy and radiant skin during this transformative period.

1. Dryness and Thinning

Menopause is characterised by a decline in estrogen levels, a hormone crucial for maintaining skin health. One of the noticeable effects is dryness and thinning of the skin. Estrogen plays a pivotal role in collagen production, the protein responsible for skin's firmness and elasticity. As estrogen levels decrease, so does collagen production, leading to a loss of skin thickness and moisture.

*Tip: Incorporate hydrating skincare products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid to boost moisture retention. * E.g. Lira Bio Hydra Infusion, Circadia Moisture on Demand or Vitamin C Reversal Serum.

2. Wrinkles and Fine Lines

The reduction in collagen and elastin, coupled with decreased skin thickness, contributes to the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. Menopausal skin is more prone to sagging, and the natural aging process becomes more apparent.

*Tip: Consider using products containing retinoids to promote collagen production and reduce the appearance of fine lines. * E.g. Lira C4 or Pro Retinol and Circadia Nighttime/Repair or Revita-Cyte Complex.

3. Loss of Firmness and Elasticity

Estrogen's role in supporting skin elasticity means that its decline during menopause leads to a loss of firmness. Skin may not bounce back as it once did, contributing to a less youthful appearance.

*Tip: Include facial exercises in your routine to help maintain muscle tone and improve skin elasticity. Book a Buccal Sculpting Facial at The Skyn Lounge!

4. Increased Sensitivity

Some women may experience heightened skin sensitivity during menopause. Redness, irritation, and a general increase in reactivity to environmental factors can occur.

*Tip: opt for gentle, fragrance-free skincare products to minimize irritation, and use sunscreen daily to protect your skin from UV damage.

5. Uneven Pigmentation

Hormonal fluctuations can lead to uneven pigmentation, resulting in age spots or hyperpigmentation. Sun exposure can exacerbate these issues.

*Tip: Use melanin inhibiting ingredients to stop pigment from forming and reduce the appearance of existing pigment. E.g. Lira Pro Brite/Lite or Circadia Bright White Serum and Licorice and Bearberry Brightening Mist. Prioritise sun protection by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 to prevent further pigmentation changes.

6. Loss of Subcutaneous Fat

Menopause can cause a decrease in subcutaneous fat, contributing to a more sunken or hollow appearance in certain facial areas.

*Tip: Consider cosmetic procedures to restore lost volume and rejuvenate your facial contours. E.g. See Nurse Hayley at Precision Aesthetics for a consultation!

At The Skyn Lounge, we look holistically at a corrective skincare routine, a treatment plan and a healthy lifestyle. If you are new, book a skin assessment to chat to our friendly team or talk to your existing Skin/Dermal Therapist if you think menopause may be affecting you.