Unspoken challenges - navigating skin changes during menopause

As we enter different stages of life, our skin evolves—none more drastically than during menopause. Yet, while hot flashes, mood swings, and night sweats often take centre stage in conversations about menopause, the impact on skin health is frequently overlooked. For many women, menopause introduces an array of skin concerns, from dryness to acne. Here’s what you need to know about the menopause skin crisis that no one talks about and how to manage it.

The menopause-skin connection: what’s happening?

During perimenopause, the transition leading up to menopause, women experience fluctuating levels of hormones like oestrogen and progesterone. This hormonal rollercoaster can result in a variety of skin changes. Oestrogen, responsible for maintaining skin hydration, elasticity, and collagen production, begins to diminish. This leads to thinner, drier, and more fragile skin, as well as a loss of elasticity, causing sagging and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. According to experts, collagen levels can drop by up to 30% in the first five years of menopause. (source) (source)

Hormonal changes also increase skin sensitivity and susceptibility to irritation and rashes. Additionally, with oestrogen levels decreasing, androgens (male hormones) can become more prominent, leading to menopausal acne as oil production increases.

Common skin concerns during menopause

1. Dry, itchy skin: The decline in oestrogen reduces the skin's ability to retain moisture, often leading to extreme dryness and itchiness. You might find that your skin feels tighter, particularly in areas like the face, neck, and hands.

2. Sagging and wrinkles: The loss of collagen and elastin—both essential for firm, youthful skin—leads to sagging around the eyes, neck, and cheeks. This is often more noticeable in women who have experienced sun damage over the years.

3. Acne and oily skin: The myth that acne is exclusive to adolescence is busted during menopause. Hormonal imbalances can trigger unexpected breakouts, often accompanied by oily skin, especially if androgen levels remain steady or increase.

4. Hyperpigmentation and dark spots: Years of accumulated sun damage can show up as dark spots during menopause. Hormonal changes also contribute to hyperpigmentation, which can make these dark patches more pronounced.

5. Thinning skin and increased bruising: With the loss of collagen, the skin becomes thinner, more delicate, and prone to bruising. Fragile blood vessels under the skin make it easier to bruise and harder to heal.

Skincare myths debunked

A common misconception is that menopause affects everyone’s skin in the same way. In reality, the experience is highly individual. While some women may battle dry skin, others may face oiliness and acne. The impact of menopause on your skin depends on factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and your skincare routine before menopause.

Additionally, the idea that acne disappears after your teenage years is far from true. Perimenopausal acne is quite common, and breakouts can occur alongside other skin aging concerns.

Skincare tips for menopausal skin

Adapting your skincare routine to meet the changing needs of your skin during menopause is essential. Here are some dermatologist-recommended strategies to manage menopausal skin changes:

- Gentle cleansing: Cleanse your skin twice a day with a mild, non-foaming cleanser to remove dirt and oil without stripping away essential moisture. For those dealing with menopausal acne, a cleanser with salicylic acid can help unclog pores and manage breakouts.

- Warm water over hot: Hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils, worsening dryness and irritation. Opt for warm water during showers or baths to help retain moisture.

- Moisturising: Apply a hydrating moisturiser immediately after washing to lock in moisture. Look for products that contain hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or glycerin to provide deep hydration. Pat your skin dry with a towel rather than rubbing it, which can irritate sensitive skin.

- Exfoliation: Regular, gentle exfoliation once a week can help slough off dead skin cells, reducing the appearance of dullness and promoting skin renewal. Be careful not to over-exfoliate, as this can lead to further dryness and irritation.

- Sun protection: Always use sunscreen with at least SPF 30, as skin becomes more susceptible to sun damage during menopause. Sun exposure can exacerbate hyperpigmentation and contribute to collagen loss.

Lifestyle choices matter

Skincare products can only do so much. For glowing, healthy skin during menopause, you must also prioritise overall health. A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, regular exercise, hydration, and minimising stress are crucial factors that contribute to skin health.

Embrace your skin’s changes with the right support

Menopause is a natural transition, but its impact on your skin doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right skincare practices and a proactive approach, you can navigate these changes while maintaining your skin’s health. Begin incorporating these strategies early, ideally in your 40s, to help manage the signs of aging and keep your skin glowing as you move through menopause.

To further support your skin through this transition, explore our specially curated skincare products at February Bloom. From deeply hydrating creams to gentle exfoliators, we offer a range of solutions designed to address the unique needs of menopausal skin. For instance:

• Hydration boost moisturiser: Formulated with hyaluronic acid, this moisturiser is perfect for combating dryness and locking in moisture, keeping your skin supple and smooth.
• Renewal retinol serum: This anti-aging serum helps promote collagen production and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving your skin a firmer, more youthful look.
• Gentle cleanser with aloe vera: Ideal for sensitive and dry skin, this non-foaming cleanser soothes and refreshes while removing impurities without stripping away essential moisture.
• Vitamin C brightening serum: Combat dark spots and uneven skin tone with this antioxidant-rich serum, perfect for reducing hyperpigmentation and brightening your complexion.

Each product is designed with menopausal skin in mind, helping you maintain a glowing, healthy complexion through this stage of life. Explore the full collection here and find the perfect additions to your skincare routine.

For more insights into skin health during menopause and tips, stay tuned to February Bloom, where we celebrate every stage of life with beauty and grace.