A:
It's no secret that menopause is a time that brings a lot of change, with some symptoms spoken of more than others. One of the lesser discussed problems that many women face is a change to their complexion. This can be unexpected – a study by the University of Manchester suggested that 54% of women didn’t expect their skin to change during the menopause.
Any unanticipated changes to your skin can be taxing, but luckily, I’m here to help with some regime adaptions suited to menopausal skin!
I'm yet to experience this stage of life, so this post comes from an accumulation of extensive research plus discussions with Q+A team members, including Dr Janet Mason our resident expert here at Q+A.
What is menopause?
Menopause typically occurs in women between the ages of 45-50, but this varies from individual to individual. As menopause begins, oestrogen levels deplete, causing a hormonal imbalance. Hormone imbalances affect your whole body, including your skin. Approximately 13 million women are navigating through menopause in the UK (Menopause Support), so you're certainly not alone if you're currently experiencing skin changes thanks to menopause.
Perimenopause is the lead-up to menopause when your symptoms start, but you continue to menstruate. Changes in your skin can be the first tell-tale sign that your body is perimenopausal as your oestrogen levels begin to lower.
How will menopause affect my skin, and how can I help?
Itchy Skin
As oestrogen levels begin to drop significantly, it can result in dehydration of your skin barrier (for more on the skin barrier, click here). Your skin can feel dry, itchy, and irritated, so it's essential to incorporate products that helps to boost hydration and protect the skin barrier. Dr Mason comments - an early indicator of perimenopause is your skin becoming more sensitive than normal, suggestions would be to take cooler baths/showers and always moisturise immediately after to help lock in the moisture and avoid symptoms like itching.
The Q+A Ceramide Barrier Defence Face Cream is ideal for dry and damaged menopausal skin with an array of skin-restoring ingredients. This cream is super nourishing and rich in fatty acids to help boost moisture levels.
Loss of skin elasticity
Collagen helps keep your skin youthful and supple. However, from age 20, Collagen production levels begin to deplete each year. As you enter menopause, the speed of this process significantly accelerates. Look for products that contain Peptides and Collagen. Peptides signal to your body that more Collagen is needed when levels are rapidly dropping. Collagen molecules are too large to penetrate the skin and physically replace the depleting levels; however, Collagen infused skincare still provides moisturisation and can reduce the appearance of fine lines. The Peptide Facial Serum and Collagen Face Cream are the perfect duo for menopausal skin that needs revitalizing. Dr Mason comments – starting a regime early in life may help any perimenopause and menopausal affects you may have in the future.
Adult Breakouts
You may find that as you stop menstruating, your skin backtracks to how it was as a teen when your cycle first began. Your body experiences a similar hormone change, resulting in more breakouts.
“Skin changes like this can really impact confidence. However, so many women will be experiencing the same feelings as you. I found that being consistent with my skincare regime helped to reduce the appearance of my blemishes and feel as if I was taking back control of my skin.”
You may need to adapt your regime to include more targeted ingredients. Azelaic acid is known for its skin-soothing benefits, calming angry breakouts without causing further irritation. Opt for our Azelaic Acid Balancing Serum that also contains a blend of antioxidant rich super grains and oil-controlling zinc PCA. It’s gentle enough for daily use and can easily be added to any regime, making it the ideal solution if you’re suffering from menopausal breakouts.
Hot Flushes
Hot flushes are the most common symptom related to menopause. Although there are no skincare products that will prevent these uncomfortable moments, we have a product that may help to ease the discomfort! Pop a Hyaluronic Acid Face Mist in your bag to hydrate your skin and ease those flushes.
Stressed Out Skin
Changes in your hormones during menopause can impact your mental health. It's common for women going through this change to experience stress and anxiety, and studies show that stress can lead to adverse effects on overall skin wellness. Managing stress is never easy, but staying active, eating well and taking time out to relax and unwind can make a big difference! This is where skincare comes in. Arrange a pamper night with friends and treat your skin to a face mask, like our antioxidant rich Vitamin A.C.E Warming Gel Mask.
Skin changes experienced during menopause can be frustrating, but I hope our insight will help to put you at ease. If you've got any further skincare questions for Team Q+A that need answers, please don't hesitate to contact us via email. And as always, the blog's comments section is always open and welcomes your questions!
For further support or information:
Balance: https://www.balance-menopause.com/menopause-library/
Menopause and Me: https://www.menopauseandme.co.uk/
The Menopause Charity: https://www.themenopausecharity.org/menopause/
Menopause Support: https://menopausesupport.co.uk/
Charlee @ Team Q+A
Charlee Grimson
Marketing and E-commerce Administrator | Current favourite: Oat Milk Cream Cleanser
