Skin
The onset of menopause, marked by the cessation of menstruation for a full year, often brings about noticeable changes to the skin and hair. As hormone levels plummet, the skin can become dry, slack, and thin. Facial hair may increase while scalp hair decreases. Additionally, sun damage accumulated over the years can now manifest as age spots and areas of discoloration on the face, hands, neck, arms, and chest. Skin cancer and precancerous growths also become more common during this time.
To protect the skin, it is crucial to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day before going outdoors. Covering all exposed skin can help fade existing age spots, prevent new ones from forming, and reduce the risk of developing skin cancer.
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Perform regular skin self-exams to check for any unusual growths or discolorations. If you're unsure how to properly examine your skin, consult your doctor or dermatologist for a professional skin exam. It's important to be aware that skin cancer can sometimes resemble common age spots or other dark spots on the skin. Attempting to treat a cancerous growth with an age-spot treatment could actually fade the spot and delay proper medical treatment. Delaying treatment for skin cancer allows the disease to potentially grow and spread, making it more difficult to treat effectively in the long run. After thoroughly examining your skin, your dermatologist can recommend an appropriate age-spot treatment that is safe and suitable for your specific skin type and condition.
Bruise easily
As oestrogen levels decline, skin becomes thinner and more prone to bruising. Applying arnica cream quickly after a bump can help reduce swelling and bruising more quickly. To help prevent further thinning of the skin, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily on exposed areas like the face, hands, neck, and any other uncovered skin. While sunscreen cannot thicken existing thin skin, it can protect against further thinning. Consistent daily use of sunscreen, even in winter, is important for maintaining skin health.
Be aware that skin cancer can sometimes resemble common age spots or other dark spots on the skin
Dry skin
During menopause, the skin's ability to retain moisture diminishes, leading to dryness that can become especially pronounced in dry environments. To combat this, it's best to wash with a gentle, non-drying cleanser rather than soap, and then apply a moisturiser liberally throughout the day as needed. Moisturisers containing hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerine can be particularly beneficial for restoring suppleness to menopausal skin.
Facial hair
As female hormone levels decline, unwanted hair may appear on the chin, jawline, or upper lip. Waxing or using Nair facial strips can be effective options, but thinning skin may make waxing risky, leading to tearing and bleeding. For more permanent hair removal, consider consulting a beauty therapist for electrolysis treatments or seeing a board-certified dermatologist about laser hair removal, if suitable.
Jowls, slack skin, and wrinkles
Menopause takes a significant toll on skin health. During the first five years of menopause, women's skin loses around 30% of its collagen. After that, collagen continues to decline, but at a more gradual rate of about 2% per year for the next 20 years.
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As collagen diminishes, the skin loses firmness and begins to sag. This can lead to the development of jowls, permanent lines from the nose to the mouth, and wrinkles that become visible even when the face is at rest. Over time, the tip of the nose may also start to droop, and under-eye pouches may appear. The lack of skin firmness also causes pores to become enlarged.
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To combat these visible signs of aging, sun protection is key, as it can reduce existing wrinkles and prevent new ones from forming. Skincare products containing retinol or peptides can also help boost collagen production.
Hormonal changes during menopause can also trigger acne breakouts in some women. These should be managed with a salicylic acid cleanser to unclog pores, avoiding overly drying products. If acne persists, consulting a dermatologist for a hormonal treatment may be necessary.
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By understanding the skin changes that occur with menopause and taking proactive steps, women can help maintain a more youthful, healthy complexion.
During the first five years of menopause, women's skin loses around 30% of its collagen.
Rashes and easily irritated skin
As we age, typically around 50 years old, the pH balance of our skin begins to change. This shift can cause the skin to become more sensitive, leading to an increased risk of rashes and irritation, especially for women. If you already have a pre-existing skin condition like eczema or rosacea, these changes may exacerbate your symptoms.
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To help manage this, use a fragrance-free moisturiser, which can reduce irritation. If a rash persists or your skin condition worsens, it's best to see a doctor. You may even need a referral to a dermatologist, as the skin often becomes drier and more easily irritated with age.
Wounds heal more slowly
Hormones play a crucial role in skin healing. When hormone levels decline, the skin's healing process slows down. However, take comfort in knowing that your skin will eventually heal, even if it takes longer than usual.
