Are you ready to deal with skin changes in the menopause
A time in every womans life is when the menopause appears and reminds us that we are entering into a natural part of the ageing process. The average age for menopause is between 45 and 55 years of age, but can commence much earlier. Around 1 in 100 women experience the menopause before 40 years of age, aka premature menopause.
Hormone levels decrease and a woman’s oestrogen levels decline which impact hugely on the skin. Most women will experience menopausal symptoms which can be mild to severe resulting in a significant impact on daily activities. The common symptoms of the menopause include:-
- Hot flushes during the day
- Night sweats which can wake you up during the night
- Sleep depreciation
- Skin dryness
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Low concentration levels
Even before your period ceases menopausal symptoms can begin months or even years beforehand and can go on for about four years after your last period. Some women may experience this for much longer.
Are you ready to deal with skin changes in the menopause
- The decrease in oestrogen and collagen levels causes the skin to lose its elasticity. Collagen plumps the skin and gives it the youthful appearance. Menopause causes lots of changes to the skin resulting in wrinkles, fine lines, thinning and dryness of the skin.
- The most important product to keep your skin and muscles hydrated is to increase your water. Aim for 1 to 2 litres everyday, especially during the winter months when your skin will be drier due to the fluctuation in temperatures and harsh climatic conditions.
- Cleansing with the correct product for dry menopausal skin is essential. Using a cream cleanser as opposed to a foam wash which can dry the skin out even more.
- Environ Mild Cleansing Lotion £37
- Use a moisturiser twice a day to combat dryness. Environ use the set-up system which means you start at entry level vitamin A 1 and work your way up through the system to increase your intake of Vitamin A as the skin requires.
- Environ AVST Moisturiser 1 – 5 £48 – £55
- The prime areas of give away for menopausal skin are the face, neck and decollage .
- Environ Avance Elixir and Hydrating Oil capsules are amazing products at tackling these areas £83 & £47
Remember to keep your hands moisturised and protected. ‘prevention is better than cure’ and is even more relevant in the menopausal years. I use a sunscreen everyday during the winter to prevent sun damage and the unsightly sign of Age spots.
- Environ RAD SPF 15 Sunscreen £19.95
- Eating the right foods filled with antioxidants will work from the inside to keep skin strong, go for your 5 a day with brightly coloured fruits and vegetables.
- Stress is a big factor to dry skin and can trigger conditions like psoriasis. Yoga, Pilates, meditation and deep breathing exercises will help to relax the body and mind. Exercise is a great stress buster helping to improve circulation which increased blood flow and oxygen throughout the body giving the skin a healthier and brighter complexion and will also define your muscles that lose tone as you get older.
- Walking is another good exercise and has proved to be a mind relaxer allowing the thoughts to wander. As we know getting outdoors and in the fresh air is a tonic in itself.
- Due to the night sweats during menopause this can keep you awake. Getting enough sleep is beneficial to help the body rest and rejuvenate. Easier said than done but try to switch off your devices in the evening, read a book and unwind before going to bed.
- Dealing with the menopause is no easy feat, however there is lots of information you can obtain from your local GP and talking with your family and friends who may or may not be experiencing the same will help you cope with the symptoms.
There are many advanced facial treatments to think about if you are concerned about the effects of ageing and sun damage. Laser skin rejuvenation is one of the more popular treatments and has great results in removing marks, diffusing redness and giving the skin a more radiant and plump look. These treatments are £95 and require a patch test prior to your first treatment.