Menopause has to be one of the most significant and inevitable phases in a woman’s life. It is a “change of life” period. While the end of menstruation and fertility hit you, you may feel other body changes. One of them is the menopausal skin.
The skin changes may come as a challenge to you, but don’t worry! We have prepared this skin guide to prepare you for the journey ahead.
Keep on reading till the end to find out about menopausal skincare routines.
Table of Contents
How Does the Menopausal Skin Feel Like?
Let’s first understand what menopausal skin feels like. It’s like a once-familiar friend who has suddenly turned unpredictable.
Menopausal skin can feel dry, rough, and sometimes itchy. Imagine a desert, craving a sip of water, and that’s how your skin might feel during this phase. It loses its youthful elasticity, making you more aware of fine lines and wrinkles that were once barely noticeable.
Now, let’s uncover how menopause works on your skin. Menopause is marked by hormonal changes, particularly a decline in estrogen levels. This hormonal shift can trigger various skin-related issues, such as:
- Dryness: The drop in estrogen results in reduced oil production and a loss of skin elasticity, leaving your skin dry and flaky.
- Wrinkles and Fine Lines: With less collagen and elastin, your skin loses its ability to bounce back, leading to the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
- Hyperpigmentation: Hormonal imbalances can cause age spots or hyperpigmentation, darkening some areas of your skin.
- Thinning Skin: Menopausal skin becomes thinner, making it more susceptible to bruising and damage.
- Acne and Breakouts: Surprisingly, some women experience acne or breakouts during menopause due to hormonal fluctuations.
How to Care for Menopausal Skin?
Dr. Shumaila Khan is one of the best dermatologists in Islamabad. She has an experience of fifteen years in the field and has some expert insights to nurture and pamper your skin through this phase:
Cleanse Properly
Cleansing is the foundation of any skincare routine and is crucial for menopausal skin. As estrogen levels decrease, your skin becomes more prone to dryness.
Opt for a mild, hydrating cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Look for sulfate-free formulations to avoid further drying.
Cleanse your face twice daily – once in the morning and again before bedtime – to remove dirt, makeup, and impurities.
Gently massage the cleanser onto your skin using circular motions, then rinse with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, as it can further dehydrate your skin.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Hydration is a top priority for menopausal skin. Studies show that estrogen helps the skin retain moisture, and as its levels decrease, your skin becomes more prone to dryness.
Invest in a good moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, or natural oils (such as jojoba or argan). These components help lock in moisture and create a protective barrier on the skin.
Apply moisturizer liberally, both in the morning and at night. Pay extra attention to drier areas, like the cheeks and neck.
You Still Need SPF
Sun protection is non-negotiable, regardless of your age. Sun exposure accelerates the signs of aging and can exacerbate menopausal skin issues. Follow these sunscreen guidelines:
Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. It protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Apply sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours outdoors, and more frequently if swimming or sweating.
Remember to protect your neck, chest, and the tops of your hands, as these areas often show signs of aging.
Minimize Wrinkled Skin
To combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, consider incorporating retinoids into your skincare routine.
These vitamin A derivatives stimulate collagen production, which can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Start with a lower concentration to minimize irritation, and gradually increase it as your skin adjusts.
Retinoids are typically applied at night, followed by a moisturizer to mitigate any dryness or peeling.
Do Something About the Hyperpigmentation
To address age spots or hyperpigmentation, look for products containing skin-brightening ingredients:
This antioxidant can help fade dark spots and even out skin tone. Look for serums or creams with a stable form of vitamin C.
Niacinamide is known for its ability to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and improve the skin’s texture.
Take Care of Your Hands as Well
Hands often show signs of aging earlier than the face. Use hand creams with anti-aging properties and SPF during the day.
Apply a rich hand cream before bedtime and wear cotton gloves to lock in moisture overnight.
Eat Your Antioxidants
A well-balanced diet can benefit your skin from the inside out. Antioxidant-rich foods can help combat free radical damage.
Incorporate many colorful fruits and vegetables into your diet, such as berries, spinach, and sweet potatoes.
Consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and flaxseeds, to support skin health.
Suggested Read: Is Kiwifruit Good for Your Skin and Hair?
Look for Balance with Exercise
Regular exercise can promote overall health and benefit your skin.
Activities like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming can improve blood circulation, which nourishes your skin.
Incorporate strength training exercises to help maintain muscle tone, which can contribute to a more youthful appearance.
Bulk Up on Beauty Sleep
Quality sleep is crucial for skin repair and rejuvenation. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night by maintaining a regular sleep schedule.
Ensure your sleep environment is conducive to rest, with a comfortable mattress, dark curtains, and a cool room temperature.
Suggested Read: Master Your Sleep by Taming an Irregular Sleep Schedule
How to Make a Routine for Menopausal Skincare?
Now that you have the tips at your fingertips, let’s create a simple routine:
Step 1: Cleanser
Start your day and end your night with a gentle cleanser. Massage it into your skin in circular motions, rinse with lukewarm water, and pat dry.
Step 2: Serum
Apply a serum with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, or peptides. These can help address specific skin concerns.
Step 3: Moisturizer
Lock in moisture with a hydrating moisturizer. Don’t forget to apply it to your neck and chest too.
Step 4: Eye Cream
The delicate skin around the eyes can benefit from a specialized eye cream to target puffiness and dark circles.
Step 5: Facial Massage
Incorporate a gentle facial massage into your routine. Use upward strokes to promote circulation and relaxation.
Consult a Qualified Dermatologist via Healthwire!
If your skin is not like its usual self, and no amount of care and pampering work for you, you should consult one of the best dermatologists in Pakistan. Healthwire is here to help with an easy consultation and appointment booking process.
