If you’ve shopped for skin care online or in a store recently, you know there are tons of “anti-aging” products available. While a serum or cream can only do so much, there’s no denying that skin changes with age.
Skin ages for several reasons. Ultraviolet (UV) ray exposure over time breaks down elastin, which can make skin lose its elasticity. Fat under the skin can shrink too, leading to a loss of plumpness or sagging. But another factor in skin changes is menopause.
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What skin changes occur during menopause?
Menopause doesn’t happen overnight. It’s officially defined as going 1 year without a period. While the timing is unique from person to person, it occurs on average at age 51.
This hormonal change causes many side effects, including:
- hot flashes
- fatigue
- vaginal dryness or pain
Skin changes during menopause are very common. You may notice that before and during this time, your skin feels dry and thin, or you may begin to see more wrinkles. Some people may experience acne during menopause as a result of hormonal fluctuations.
What are common skin conditions with menopause?
When the production of hormones estrogen and progesterone rapidly drop off with menopause, most people see it in their skin. The skin may become dry or less plump.
Hot flashes can also cause redness, and changing hormone levels may cause acne.
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Why does skin change during menopause?
It may be frustrating to notice skin changes during menopause, but it’s very typical.
Collagen is what gives skin plumpness and structure. The rapid loss of collagen can lead to fine lines and wrinkles or cause sagging in the cheeks. Dry skin and acne are also common.
Estrogen helps the skin produce oil and hold onto water, so extremely dry skin during menopause is common thanks to a drop in this hormone.
Some people will also notice acne as estrogen levels fall and androgen levels remain stable (androgens are male sex hormones, like testosterone), increasing sebum production and causing pores to become blocked.
Can you prevent skin changes during menopause?
Menopause is inevitable and healthy for a person with a uterus, but that doesn’t mean they’ll love the side effects, including skin changes.
You may not be able to prevent menopause from taking a toll on your skin, but you can certainly take steps at home to make your skin look its best.
Because one of the main factors in skin aging is sun exposure, it’s essential to wear SPF daily — even when it’s cloudy. To help keep hormonal acne at bay, use a cleanser with salicylic acid. This can penetrate pores and dissolve oil.
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Hydration is also important for menopausal skin. It’s likely that your face and body will feel drier than usual, and using a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid may help draw moisture into the skin It’s best to use moisturizers with hyaluronic acid on damp skin so the ingredient can bond with water.
A moisturizer with ceramides can help moisture from escaping, and topping a moisturizer with a facial oil adds even more hydration.
In addition to skincare products, it’s always helpful to eat hydrating foods, drink plenty of water, and try to get quality sleep..
What are the treatments for skin changes during menopause?
If the skin changes from menopause are really bothering you and are paired with other symptoms, like vaginal dryness, your doctor may suggest hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
In some cases, if HRT doesn’t seem right, they may recommend an herbal alternative to HRT, like valerian root, or dietary changes that may help balance hormones.
BOTOX treatments may also help minimize the appearance of wrinkles.
If you’re noticing an increase in facial hair as a result of menopause, laser hair removal may be a good option.
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What can you do at home for skin changes during menopause?
Skincare gets more and more advanced all the time, with new formulas and brands popping up. The simplest home remedy for menopausal skin is a good moisturizer. Incorporating pro-aging ingredients, like retinol, vitamin C, glycolic and lactic acids, and of course, SPF will also help.
Also make sure to stay hydrated, get enough sleep, and limit your consumption of alcohol, caffeine, and processed or greasy foods.