“Menopause is a significant life transition that can have a profound impact on skin health. With the right skincare strategies, including hormone replacement therapy, topical creams, and lifestyle modifications, women can maintain healthy, radiant skin throughout menopause and beyond.”

– Dr Diane Berson

Although menopause is a natural transition in every woman’s life, it is not always pleasant. The decline in estrogen reduces collagen production, impeding the skin's ability to retain moisture and elasticity. This is manifested as dry and dull skin. Here, we suggest strategies to help you preserve your radiant and healthy skin amidst the difficult transition.

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1. Hydrate

Hydration, by drinking water and consuming hydrating foods such as leafy greens, is necessary to keep your skin moisturised and plump.

2. Moisturise with Omega-Rich Products

Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, commonly found in products that contain flaxseed oil, chia seed oil, evening primrose oil, can soothe dry and irritated skin. Additionally, pairing moisturiser with retinol can boost collagen production and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

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3. Exfoliate Wisely

Exfoliation is integral to remove dead skin cells and enhance skin texture. As the skin is especially susceptible to irritation during menopause, milder products containing alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) should be used only 1-2 times per week. Abrasive scrubs should be avoided to prevent disruption of the natural skin barrier.

4. Protect Your Skin

The sun can be extremely damaging to the skin, and worse during menopause. The sun can accelerate aging and worsen skin dryness and red spots. To tackle this, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Apply it on your face and neck daily, even when it is a cloudy day, and even if you are staying indoors. Remember to reapply every few hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.

5. Get Enough Sleep

Sleep becomes increasingly important as you grow older. During menopause, it works like a charm to help your skin repair and regenerate itself. Make sure you're getting 7-8 hours of sleep every night.

6. Manage Your Overall Health

Your overall health has a huge impact on your skin. For example, if you get enough exercise on a regular basis, you will ensure that you enhance circulation and oxygenate the skin. On the other hand, if you don't have enough exercise, your cortisol could spike and worsen your skin issues. Stress is one of the main factors that damage your skin, so include some stress-reducing activities like meditation, Pilates or deep breathing exercises into your daily life.

7. Eat a Balanced Diet

A balanced diet is a must. Make sure your diet includes lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables. In your diet, include antioxidant-rich foods to prevent free radical damage and support skin repair. Berries, nuts, and green tea are good choices. In addition, include foods that are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation, such as wild caught salmon and walnuts.

8. Consider Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

Some women use HRT to alleviate symptoms that come with menopause, including drastic skin changes. HRT can enhance skin thickness, elasticity, and hydration. It does so by replenishing estrogen levels in the body. Consult your doctor to see if HRT is suitable for you.

9. Use a Humidifier

As dry skin is one of the symptoms of menopausal skin, dryness in the environment can worsen skin issues. When you are indoors, you can consider using a humidifier to maintain healthy moisture levels in your skin.

10. Take Collagen Supplements

Collagen production decreases as you age, especially when you reach menopause. This means that your skin gradually loses its firmness over time. You can alleviate this by including collagen-boosting ingredients in your skincare, such as peptides and Vitamin C. You can also take collagen supplements and bone broth which help improve skin elasticity and hydration over time.

Continuing to Look Good, Feel Great

With these 10 menopausal skin hacks in your daily routine, and some timely medispa interventions, you are well on your way to maintaining healthy, glowing skin through menopause.  Menopause is not a skin sentence – handled wisely with the right skincare strategies, it's a new chapter in your life where you can continue to look and feel your best!