Skin changes during menopause: an overview
In the journey of life, women go through a significant phase known as menopause, typically in their 40s and 50s. This phase is marked by a significant decline in estrogen and progesterone levels, which can have a profound impact on skin health.
Dr. Cristina Del Toro Badessa, a board-certified physician specializing in personalized and integrative medicine, and the director at Artisan Beaute, sheds light on the changes menopause brings to the skin. A decrease in oil production during this phase can contribute to dryness and a loss of the skin's natural glow.
To combat these changes, experts recommend focusing on hydrating the skin, using broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and looking for skincare products containing hyaluronic acid, ceramides, peptides, retinoids, vitamin C, and growth factors.
Dr. Melanie Palm, a board-certified dermatologist at Art of Skin in San Diego, California, echoes these sentiments. She highlights the importance of hydration, particularly in skincare products. One such product is No7 Menopause Skincare Firm & Bright Eye Concentrate, which has a rollerball applicator that cools on contact, providing an additional soothing sensation.
No7 Menopause Skincare Firm & Bright Eye Concentrate also contains niacinamide to moisturize and soy and red clover isoflavones to brighten. Another product worth mentioning is EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46, which offers broad-spectrum protection, contains niacinamide to hydrate and address discoloration, and is non-comedogenic.
The decline in collagen production during menopause leads to changes in the skin such as dryness, skin laxity, thinning, wrinkles, photosensitivity, increased facial hair, slower wound healing, and more. To address these issues, companies like CeraVe, known for producing highly recommended skincare products suitable for menopausal skin, offer a range of products. Founded in 2005, CeraVe's products are widely available in pharmacies and online retailers.
Another notable company is mesoestetic, which has over 30 years of experience in innovative skincare. They offer targeted products with hyaluronic acid for women’s intimate and menopausal skin. Their products can be purchased through specialized dermatological clinics and online.
For those seeking natural, clean, and natural formulations, brands like Blanda Beauty offer certified natural skincare products that can also benefit menopausal skin and are sold in their online shop.
Moreover, menopause can impact sleep quality, which can negatively impact skin health. A good night's sleep is crucial for skin rejuvenation, and Womaness Overnight Magic Night Face Cream, containing bakuchiol, an alternative to retinol for sensitive skin, and hyaluronic acid to moisturize, could be a beneficial addition to one's skincare routine.
Lastly, Medicube Triple Collagen Cream absorbs quickly and is affordable, making it a practical choice for many. Stripes Post Shower Body Oil, free of parabens and sulfates, contains squalane for hydration and vitamin C for brightening, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
Vichy Neovadiol Serum, made specifically for peri and post menopausal women, contains fatty acids and vitamin C and has a 4.5-star average rating from 1,471 reviews on Ulta. These products, along with the expert recommendations, can help women navigate the challenges of menopausal skin and maintain a radiant, healthy glow.