Radiant Resilience: Navigating Menopausal Skin Changes with Style

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Podcast Season 2 Episode 7 transcript:

Menopause brings about many changes in a woman's body. One of the first things women notice and bring to our skin clinic is the sometimes drastic changes in skin tone and appearance. Clients comment on how these changes come along, sometimes quite suddenly.

Skin factors like natural ageing, nutrition, stress, and smoking affect the skin. However, women notice that changes are very visible around menopause.

As hormone levels fluctuate, the skin undergoes various transformations that can significantly impact its appearance and overall health. Today, we'll explore these changes and discuss how to address them.

One of the most common skin issues during menopause is dryness. As estrogen levels decline, the skin produces less oil, leading to dryness, itchiness, and a dull complexion. To combat this, it's crucial to maintain a regular skincare routine that focuses on hydration. Look for moisturisers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides, which help retain moisture in the skin.

Another skin concern that women face during menopause is increased skin sensitivity. Decreased estrogen levels can make the skin more prone to irritation, redness, and rashes. It's advisable to avoid harsh skincare products and opt for gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturisers. Additionally, wearing sunscreen daily becomes even more important as the skin becomes more vulnerable to sun damage.

Menopause changes the skin's elasticity and firmness. Collagen and elastin, responsible for maintaining the skin's structure, decrease with age and hormonal changes. This can lead to sagging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles. Incorporating skincare products that contain retinol, peptides, and antioxidants can help stimulate collagen production and improve the skin's texture and firmness.

Along with these changes, women may also experience an increase in acne or breakouts during menopause. Hormonal fluctuations can trigger oil production, leading to clogged pores and blemishes. To control acne, it's essential to maintain a consistent cleansing routine and consider using spot treatments to dry out spots and blemishes.

Lastly, menopause can change the skin's pigmentation. Some women may notice dark spots or uneven skin tone, known as hyperpigmentation. This can be addressed by incorporating skincare products with ingredients like vitamin C and niacinamide, which can help brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of discolouration.

While menopause can bring challenges to the skin, it's important to remember that there are ways to manage and address these changes. By following a consistent skincare routine, staying hydrated, and protecting the skin from the sun, you can maintain healthy and vibrant skin during this stage of life.

It is important not to panic and start shopping around. I see clients who come in with bagfuls of products, relying on social media or their friends. Remember, what is excellent for your friend might not be ideal for you. In future podcasts, we will discuss skincare routines and products in more detail.

That's all for today's episode of "Radio Menopause". Thank you for joining me, and I hope you found this discussion on the effect of menopause on the skin helpful. Remember, knowledge is power, and by understanding these changes, we can embrace menopause with confidence.

#radiomenopause

Skincare: what your products do and how they work.

Your skin is amazing.

It's your body's largest organ, shielding against solar radiation, physical damage, harmful substances, chemicals, and moisture loss. It also turns sunlight into vitamin D, allows you to touch and feel, and regulates your body temperature.

I could go on; the list is (almost) endless.

Protecting and managing skin health requires time, understanding, and care. Most people have some form of skin routine, whether they apply five products a day or one a week.

But what do these products do? How do they impact your skin, and what issues do they help solve?

What five popular products do for your skin

Navigating the skincare product landscape can be overwhelming, with each product claiming significant benefits. Here's a straightforward explanation of what five popular skincare products do for your skin:

Cleansers:

For clogged pores and acne

These are essential for removing dirt, oil, and other impurities from the skin's surface. A good cleanser clears the way for different skincare products, allowing them to work more effectively without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Choosing the right cleanser involves finding one that effectively cleans without causing dryness or irritation.

Moisturizers:

For dryness and skin barrier damage

These products are crucial for all skin types to help hydrate and maintain the skin's moisture barrier. They prevent dryness, manage sensitivity, and can improve skin texture. Ingredients to look for include hyaluronic acid, which hydrates the skin, and ceramides, which help restore the skin's barrier.

Sunscreens:

For sunburn, sun damage, and premature ageing

Sunscreen is essential for protecting the skin from the damaging effects of UV radiation, either by blocking, reflecting, or absorbing it. Regular use can prevent signs of ageing and reduce the risk of skin cancer. Modern sunscreens are designed to offer broad-spectrum protection without the unpleasant texture of past formulations, making them easier to incorporate into your daily routine.

Exfoliants:

For dullness and uneven texture

These products help to remove dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover and revealing healthier, brighter skin underneath. Chemical exfoliants like AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) work by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells, while physical exfoliants mechanically remove them. Exfoliating can improve skin texture and tone but should be done carefully to avoid over-exfoliation.

Serums:

For specific concerns like fine lines, dark spots, and dehydration

Serums are concentrated treatments that target specific skin concerns such as ageing, hydration, brightening, or calming. They contain active ingredients like vitamin C for brightening, retinol for ageing, and salicylic acid for acne. Serums can offer significant benefits due to their potent formulations but should be selected based on your unique skin needs.

Consider your skincare routine.

Understanding the purpose and benefits of these skincare products can help you tailor your routine to better suit your skin's needs, leading to healthier and more radiant skin.

Skincare is personal, and finding the right products requires patience and experimentation. With knowledge and care, you can develop a routine that supports your skin's health and appearance.

It is always a good idea to consult a professional before incorporating any product into your skincare routine and be wary of overpriced or overpromising products.

In another of our articles, ' Skincare doesn't have to be complicated ', we discussed getting acquainted with your skin, identifying issues, and starting a routine.