Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycle. It usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. During menopause, the body goes through significant hormonal changes, which can affect various parts of the body, including the skin.
How does Menopause affect the skin?
The skin is the largest organ in the body and plays a crucial role in protecting the body from external factors such as pollution and UV radiation. It also helps regulate body temperature and plays a significant role in maintaining overall health. However, hormonal changes during menopause can lead to a variety of skin problems:
One of the most common skin problems during menopause is dryness. As oestrogen levels decline, the skin loses its natural ability to retain moisture, leading to dry, itchy, and flaky skin. This can also lead to increased sensitivity and irritation. Another common skin problem during menopause is the loss of elasticity and firmness. Collagen production decreases, which can lead to sagging skin, wrinkles, and fine lines. The skin may also become thinner, making it more susceptible to damage. In addition, menopause can also cause an increase in pigmentation, leading to age spots and uneven skin tone. The skin may also become more prone to acne and other breakouts due to hormonal fluctuations.
Fortunately, there are lots of things you can do to help alleviate these skin problems. One of the most effective treatments for menopausal skin is hormone replacement therapy (HRT). HRT can help balance hormone levels and improve skin hydration, elasticity, and firmness. Another option is introducing topical creams and serums that contain retinoids to your skincare routine, which can help stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture. Hyaluronic acid-based products can also help hydrate the skin and improve its elasticity.
What treatments are available to help menopausal skin complaints?
At Manor Health we can address all the skin complaints associated with menopause with a variety of treatments. Here is what we would recommend for each concern:
Fine Lines, Wrinkles, Loose Skin, Open Pores and Uneven Skin Texture
CO2 Laser Resurfacing is the ultimate anti-ageing treatment and will significantly improve collagen and elastin production to treat a range of skin problems. It is suitable for the face, neck, décolleté and anywhere on the body such as the upper arms and knees which are often the first areas to show signs of ageing in menopause. The effects can be seen after 8 weeks and continue to improve for up to 6 months. We use the Smartxide Punto by Deka, a medical-grade laser that delivers exceptional results in skin tightening.
Pigmentation, Age Spots, Rosacea and Thread Veins
For this type of issue, we recommend an IPL Laser treatment. We use an IPL laser by Lynton and often combine this with a mild Chemical Peel. This treatment will reduce and usually remove pigmentation and broken capillaries and diminish overall diffused redness that is responsible for red flushing on the face. The results can be seen in 4 weeks leaving a uniform complexion for younger-looking skin.
Volume Loss and Wrinkles
When skin volume is lost, something needs to replace it. Dermal Fillers can be used to replace volume loss in the skin. As menopause takes hold, lips begin to thin, nose-to-mouth lines get deeper, cheek volume declines, the corners of the mouth begin to droop, the tear trough can become hollow and dark and fine lines above the lip can appear deeper.
Many people associate fillers with a fake look that we often see on celebrities, and this can put women off using fillers as they assume that they will have a ‘pillow face’ look. That is not the case at all. When the correct filler for a specific area is used, administered by an experienced practitioner, it is possible to replace this volume loss whilst maintaining a completely natural look.
Sagging Jawline and Jowls
Fear not! A surgical facelift isn’t the only solution for a sagging jawline and jowls. PDO Cogs are a natural way to lift the face, tighten the jawline and improve jowls. This treatment delivers instant results with minimal downtime. The additional benefit of cogs is that you prevent further sagging for 18-24 months following the treatment, slowing down the ageing process.
Dry Skin and Fine Lines
Skin Boosters such as Profhilo and Plenhyage work to hydrate the skin and repair tissue. Both products will stimulate collagen to improve skin texture and give the skin a glow lost through menopause. This is not a filler so for those nervous about fillers, this is a great alternative to improve overall skin health.
Hormonal Breakouts
Again, the IPL Laser is a great treatment for hormonal breakouts. This will reduce active lesions on the face and jawline. We also recommend the Clear Cell Face Mask by Image Skincare. This acne-reducing mask is extremely effective when you get a hormone flare-up and can nip the outbreak in the bud in just a few days.
In addition to these treatments, it’s important to take care of the skin from the inside out. This includes maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding excessive sun exposure. In conclusion, menopause can have a significant impact on the skin, leading to dryness, loss of elasticity, pigmentation, and more. However, with the right treatments and skincare regime, women can maintain healthy, vibrant, and youthful-looking skin during this transition.
