Over the years we’ve had a lot of questions about menopause and its effect on the skin. So we turned to Dr. Lista to get the answers you’re looking for.
What can happen to skin during menopause and why?
With the withdrawal of estrogen and progesterone that marks a woman’s entrance into menopause, several things occur. Firstly, the skin dries out. Just as in adolescence, when hormone levels are high and we might experience an excess in oil production, in menopause, the reverse is true. In the absence of estrogen, oil production decreases, causing the skin to dry. In addition, normal cellular turnover times slow down, and skin cells are less capable of carrying on with their normal functions at the speed at which they once did. As a result, dead skin cells accumulate on the top layer of skin, resulting in not only dull and dry skin, but flaky skin. There is also the thinning of the skin caused by the increased loss of collagen (the skin’s support structure), a decrease in skin elasticity, the inability to heal quickly, and decreased skin strength. All of these transformations result in diminished skin texture and tone, some sagging, increased visibility of and susceptibility to the development of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as a loss of volume.
How can women combat the effects of menopause on skin in terms of their skincare regimen?
As women enter perimenopause and menopause, it becomes ever more important to get on a high quality, effective skin care regimen, and to be diligent about using it. Whatever skincare line you’re using should contain active ingredients, These are ingredients which are said to directly effect real changes to the skin. Your regime should exfoliate the skin, encourage cell turnover, strengthen the skin’s support structure by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, provide hydration, and protect against moisture loss and the onslaught of environmental pollutants. In addition, many women find that regular exercise helps to stimulate blood flow to the skin ﾖ which keeps your skin looking healthy. Some women might be prescribed hormone replacement therapy by their doctors, which can help significantly with many of the symptoms of menopause, including those associated with the skin.
What types of skincare products should women be looking for to combat the effects of menopause on skin?
Ideally, your skin care regimen should include 1) a gentle pH correct cleanser to clean the skin and clear the surface of debris, 2) a toner or solution, preferably containing glycolic and/or salicylic acid to exfoliate dead skin cells, and to motivate the healing of damaged-looking skin 3) an activator such as Miracle 10’s AHA Gel I or AHA Cream (AHA stands for Alpha Hydroxy Acid) to assist in the process of cell turnover and renewal, and to promote the synthesis of collagen and, 4) an excellent moisturizer that combats the dryness brought on by a lack of oil production, and which can aid in tissue repair, block the production of free radicals, and strengthen elastic. In addition, we’re seeing great results in the overall fatigue and dehydration of the skin with our Botanical Oil Concentrate. If you’re thinking of adding an oil to your regime, look for a dry-oil with a number of extracts that are active.
What about key ingredients to look for and why?
It’s important to look for products with active ingredients that exfoliate the skin, promote cell turnover, encourage the production of collagen and the synthesis of elastin, and which can provide enough hydration to maturing skin. Look for ingredients such as lactic, glycolic, salicylic and kojic acid, as well as hyacare 50, tetrahydrocurcuminoids, and hyaluronic acid.
You should also look out for some of the following vitamins and minerals which protect against the development of free radicals, and which have known anti-aging properties: green tea extract, vitamins E and C, eucalyptus oil, chamomile extract, aloe vera gel, kombuchka, and lavender oil.
Are there any lifestyle changes menopausal women can make to avoid getting dry skin (diet, exercise, water, etc.) and why do these help?
Stay out of the sun. The sun will dry out the skin, and it will also cause skin damage which becomes harder to heal once women enter menopause. Having regular lactic or glycolic peels will also help to combat dryness, as well as to encourage cell turnover and stimulate the production of collagen. In addition, you probably need to moisturize more often and at a higher intensity than you did when you were younger. Installing a humidifier in your home can help the skin retain adequate moisture levels. Set humidity levels around 40% and you’ll notice a big difference. Of course, drinking lots of water and trying to get lots of sleep will also keep your skin looking youthful and healthy. Also, if you’re skin care regime has been of the ﾓsoap and waterﾔ variety your whole life, then it’s definitely time to make a lifestyle change and get on the good stuff.