Most of us rightfully associate menopause with hormonal changes such as hot flashes, and disrupted sleeping patterns. However, did you know that up to 64 percent of women also report problems with their skin? Some common issues include a general loss of elasticity, noticeable dryness, and increased tactile sensitivity.
Why do these changes occur? Are there any ways to minimize the overall effects? Let's take an in-depth look at the relationship between menopause and dry skin. It will then be much easier to appreciate the surprising number of options at your disposal.
Table of Contents:
- How Menopause Affects Your Skin?
- Common Skin Changes During Menopause
- How to Fix Dry Skin & Other Menopause-Related Skin Issues?
- Lifestyle Changes to Support Healthy Skin During Menopause
- When to See a Dermatologist or Healthcare Provider?
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
How Menopause Affects Your Skin?
There are several ways in which menopause and skin health are related. As you might have already guessed, these are directly related to hormonal fluctuations. We need to remember that the condition of your skin will be impacted by even subtle variations; many of these associated with specific changes that women will experience during menopause. Estrogen tends to be a primary culprit.
i. The Role of Estrogen in Skin Health
Appreciating how menopause affects your skin must take into account a hormone known as estrogen. Estrogen is responsible for a host of vital functions including hydration, elasticity, and the production of collagen (a substance that provides support for connective tissues).
When estrogen levels begin to decline, women may experience several symptoms. Typical issues include dryness, irritation, a loss of firmness, and skin that appears "thinner" than in the past.
ii. Collagen Loss and Skin Elasticity
As we have just seen, menopause and skin changes are influenced by the ability of your body to produce collagen. Over time, a lack of collagen can contribute to several symptoms; two prominent examples being skin that sags, and wrinkles that become more pronounced. To put these observations into perspective, research has found that some women may lose up to 30 percent of their initial collagen reserves during the first five menopausal years.
iii. Decreased Oil Production
Another reason for dry skin during menopause is associated with a decrease in a natural oil known as sebum. Sebum performs two important functions:
- It protects the surface of the skin against abrasions (durability).
- Sebum helps to lock in moisture that would otherwise be lost.
Therefore, skin dryness after menopause may be a direct result of less sebum. Other symptoms can include flaking skin, and changes based on climate. Note that a lower resistance to humidity can also lead to clogged pores, and increased breakouts of pimples (an example of the relationship between menopause and acne).
iv. Increased Skin Sensitivity and Irritation
Dry skin during menopause can lead to a host of physical symptoms. This is once again due to the reduced estrogen levels discussed earlier. Itching, redness, and irritation are all commonplace. Furthermore, thinner skin makes it more difficult to resist external hazards such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This is why menopausal women will often require stronger sunblock during the warmer months of the year.
According to Dr. Nontokozo, Medical Study Doctor at Atlantia Clinical Trials - "The hormonal fluctuations in menopause can change the skin's pH and this can cause it to be more sensitive and prone to irritation. Many women report skin redness, itching, rashes, or even poor wound healing."
Common Skin Changes During Menopause
While the severity of symptoms will vary between individuals, there is a clear correlation between menopause and skin changes. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Acne
- Skin that feels thinner
- Reduced elasticity
- Skin that appears to drop or sag
- Age spots
- Noticeably dry or flaky skin
- Increased sensitivity
We will now delve into each of these scenarios in more detail.
i. Dry and Flaky Skin
Unlike seasonal variations based on climate, temperature, and humidity, dryness can occur at seemingly random intervals. In other words, menopause and dry skin (regardless of the time of the year) are undoubtedly linked to one another.
ii. Wrinkles and Fine Lines
It is a well-known fact that lower estrogen levels can lead to accelerated aging. Fine lines and wrinkles are sometimes referred to as symptoms of "atrophic skin changes". Note that healing from wounds may take slightly longer; yet another example of how menopause and skin changes share several commonalities.
iii. Sagging Skin and Loss of Firmness
Some women may begin to notice skin that has lost its elasticity. Areas particularly prone to this condition are around the neck and jawline. However, other locations (such as beneath the eyes or ears) may exhibit noticeable changes.
iv. Acne and Breakouts
Readers may be surprised to learn that skin changes during menopause can also lead to acne. While this is partially due to decreased sebum production, menopausal women produce another category of hormones collectively known as androgens. Research has found a clear link between increased androgen production and acne in menopausal and post-menopausal women. Menopause and acne therefore share a common thread.
v. Hyperpigmentation and Age Spots
Estrogen serves many functions, and one of these involves regulating the production of a chemical known as melanin. Melanin is responsible for protecting the skin against ultraviolet rays, and certain chemicals that may lead to the production of free radicals. When estrogen levels begin to wane, melanin production may increase; ultimately resulting in age spots (sometimes known as sunspots).
How to Fix Dry Skin & Other Menopause-Related Skin Issues?
Considering all the observations outlined above, some may believe that menopause and dry skin are simply a part of life. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to combat the associated effects. Science has come a long way in recent years, and countless women have already leveraged the benefits.
i. Skincare Routine Adjustments
One of the best ways to mitigate the impact of dry skin during menopause involves a few simple skincare adjustments including:
- Avoid using soaps containing harsh chemicals (these could further irritate the skin, or lead to acne breakouts).
- Purchase moisturizers containing glycerin, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid.
- Apply topical creams fortified with peptides and retinol (these support the natural production of collagen).
ii. Hydration from Within
This next menopause skin care tip is arguably one of the easiest to follow. Experts recommend that menopausal women drink between six and eight glasses of water per day (roughly 2 liters). This will provide your skin with the hydration it requires to maintain its elasticity.
iii. Diet for Healthy Skin During Menopause
We are what we eat, and this is just as true when discussing skin changes during menopause. Certain foods can work wonders, and they are also quite tasty. For example, include omega fatty acids into your dietary regimen. Sources include eggs, salmon, and flax seed oil supplements. Omega fatty acids will help your skin remain supple.
Antioxidants can likewise protect your skin from free radical damage. Dark leafy greens, berries, and nuts are all viable options. There are plenty of tempting recipes to consider, so variety is never a concern. Diet plays a key role in terms of preventative health.
Foods high in vitamins C and E are also crucial. Vitamin C helps to repair cellular damage, and vitamin E contributes to skin elasticity. Citrus fruits are excellent options while vegetables such as kale contain extremely high amounts of these vital nutrients.
Finally, be sure to receive the recommended daily allowance of calcium and vitamin D. Calcium supports strong bones (women are prone to conditions such as osteoporosis), and vitamin D contributes to the overall health of your skin.
iv. Protecting Skin from Environmental Damage
Although it is important to protect your skin from the sun at any age, this is even more relevant when discussing menopause skin care. A broad-spectrum sunscreen can help to reduce the effects of hyperpigmentation. Certain moisturizers will also provide an effective barrier against inclement weather (such as wind and cold temperatures). As the expression goes, an ounce of protection goes a long way.
Lifestyle Changes to Support Healthy Skin During Menopause
We can now see that an effective approach to menopause skin care involves developing a well-rounded strategy from the beginning. Having said this, supplements are not the only option. Menopause and skin health will also depend on your daily habits.
One potent recommendation involves regular exercise. Physical activity increases blood flow to the extremities, removes harmful toxins from the body, and helps your skin remain hydrated.
Elevated levels of a stress-related hormone known as cortisol can cause inflammation, and may even lead to acne flare-ups. Try to reduce your levels of perceived stress. Exercise, various forms of meditation, and engaging in enjoyable activities are some methods to consider.
Did you know that sleep plays a vital role in skin health? Sleep is a restorative process that ultimately contributes to the overall appearance of your skin. Be sure to obtain the recommended amount (between seven and eight hours) each night.
When to See a Dermatologist or Healthcare Provider?
There are numerous ways to address your concerns related to menopause and skin health. However, when might it be better to consult a professional? It could be prudent to obtain additional advice if dryness or irritation do not improve with home care, or in the event that the symptoms become worse. Furthermore, seek assistance if you experience any adverse reactions to topical treatments. This could be a sign of a hormonal imbalance; a condition that natural remedies might not be able to address.
Conclusion
Acne, wrinkles, and skin dryness after menopause are all quite common, and represent a natural stage of aging. However, there are also numerous effective ways to combat these effects if you are willing to adopt a proactive approach. While beauty is always in the eye of the beholder, there is no reason why any of us should be forced to age prematurely.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why does menopause cause dry skin?
Estrogen plays many roles; some of these are associated with the production of natural oils and collagen. When levels of estrogen begin to fall, your skin may become dry.
2. Can I hydrate my skin during menopause?
Hydration during menopause is key if you wish to avoid the effects highlighted throughout this article. Trusted supplements, topical treatments, drinking plenty of water, and dietary modifications can work wonders.
3. Can menopause cause sudden skin sensitivity?
Sensitive skin is one of the most common symptoms attributed to menopause. Thinner skin is one reason why your sensitivity may increase. Note that irritation and dryness can also play pivotal roles. Consult a doctor if the pain becomes severe, or the condition significantly worsens.
4. Does menopause cause wrinkles and sagging skin?
Although a loss of elasticity is common with aging in both sexes, menopause can exacerbate the overall effects in women thanks to estrogen. This is why adopting a hands-on approach is the best way to minimize the overall impact on your appearance.
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