Skin & Menopause
It’s all about the oestrogen in the build-up to menopause. The body produces less oestrogen resulting in those familiar symptoms - hot flushes anxiety and brain fog to name but a few. But do these falling oestrogen levels have an impact on the skin in menopause? You bet they do!
A little background - oestrogen plays a role in stimulating the production of natural oils and collagen production, by clinging to fibroblast receptors. These fibroblasts produce the protein collagen, giving skin strength and flexibility, as well as elastin - the clue is in the name, it’s the protein that gives skin its elasticity helping stretched skin relax back into shape. Essentially, these proteins are responsible for firm, taut, thick moist skin with healthy blood vessels.
How does menopause affect the skin?
Dry skin in menopause is one of the single, most common changes for us all. Fewer oestrogen results in some of the more obvious perimenopause skin problem lines - dry, sensitive, sagging, and dull skin. As hormone levels dip, menopause rosacea, spots and pimples may appear even for those who’ve previously been acne-free. Pigmentation and bruising may develop. What about some of the more unusual strange skin problems? Read on!
Can menopause cause itchy skin?
In a word, yes! Dry and itchy skin in menopause can make a frustrating pair. As oestrogen is lost, skin becomes less efficient at holding in moisture. Hello formication – the feeling of insects scrambling around under your skin, causing an itch that can’t be scratched.
Tips for your menopause skincare
Know your skin - what does it usually need and what does it respond to?
Take stock of your skin products - use non-pore-blocking cleansers and richer formulation moisturisers to hold moisture in. You don’t have to spend a fortune on a product’s packaging & advertising.
Avoid foaming skin cleansers – go for gentler non-foaming ones.
Use unscented shower & bath gel.
Use a separate SPF (rather than one included in other products) every day – it’s never too late to start protecting your skin.
Eat a healthy balanced diet & get some exercise.
Avoid processed and fried foods as the sugars can bind to collagen making it less efficient
Don’t smoke – it ages the skin!
As the body’s largest organ, skin changes in menopause, allergies to previously safe products or materials and that pernicious itchy skin syndrome can strike.
