Did you know that the menopause can have a big impact on your skin? Here I share how you can look after your skin and keep it looking its best.
The menopause is a natural part of ageing that usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 years of age. In the UK, the average age for a woman to reach the menopause is 51.
During the menopause our hormones change and oestrogen levels drop significantly. Many women experience skin dryness and sensitivity as a result. The body also produces less collagen and elastin. Studies have shown that women’s skin loses about 30% of its collagen during the first five years of the menopause causing our skin to lose firmness. As the skin thins and loses fat and muscle, jowls and slack skin become an issue. At this point fines lines can turn into deeper wrinkles.
Hormonal changes can also cause outbreaks of acne and facial hair. Adult acne usually appears on the lower part of your face. Its best to talk to your GP about which treatment is best to use as typical teenage acne treatments can often be too harsh. Menopausal skin is thinner and drier than teenage skin.
Sun damage can take 15 years to show on the skin, so pigmentation marks and age spots can start making an appearance. It is never too late to start using a broad spectrum sunscreen. When applied daily it can help prevent further signs of ageing. This can prevent new spots from forming and reduce your risk of getting skin cancer.
To combat dry skin, wash with a creamy cleanser and moisturise twice daily. You’d be surprised at how dry skin can appear more lined. A good moisturiser will help get rid of dehydration lines. Use a fragrance free moisturiser to avoid irritating sensitive skin. Apply body cream after bathing or showering and when your skin feels dry. Gentle exfoliation can help keep skin from appearing dull, unclog blocked pores and reveal a more radiant complexion.
If you find the menopause particularly troublesome, treatments via your GP are available.