As this is a subject close to my heart as I have been navigating my journey of the peri-menopause and seeing the changes in my own I want to share with you what happens to your skin, the changes you may see, and what ingredients in skincare can help.
Feeling you're losing your identity
If you're going through peri-menopause, menopause or you are post-menopause you will understand the physical changes that you will have seen in your skin. It is hard I know you almost feel like you are losing your identity and you just don't feel like you anymore. I want you to understand what's going on with your skin and what can help you feel confident in your skin again and to embrace the journey of menopause.
One thing I love about my job is giving back my clients their confidence and learning how to embrace the changes that age and menopause bring.
So how does menopause change our skin?
Believe it or not, our skin's collagen starts to deplete 1% each year from the age of 20. How crazy is that? So during the early stages of menopause now referred to as peri-menopause the collagen can deplete by 30% in the first five years, which is huge. The reason this is happening is because of a sex hormonal called estrogen and it plays a vital role in shaping the health and structure of the skin. However, during menopause, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen.
This hormonal decline has pronounced effects on the skin. Estrogen stimulates the production of collagen, a key protein that imparts firmness and elasticity to the skin. With lower estrogen levels in menopause, there is a reduction in collagen production, leading to the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Additionally, estrogen contributes to skin hydration by regulating oil production, and its decrease can result in dryness and the skin looking more dehydrated and lines more prominent. The thinning of the skin, loss of firmness, and changes in pigmentation are further consequences of diminished estrogen levels but remember everyone's skin is affected differently during menopause.
What skincare ingredients can help during menopause?
✨Hyaluronic Acid: Helps to hydrate the skin and retain moisture, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
✨Retinol: Promotes collagen production, improves skin texture, and helps with fine lines and wrinkles. However, it may cause sensitivity, so start with a lower concentration and gradually increase.
✨Vitamin C: Has antioxidant properties that can protect the skin from environmental damage and promote collagen synthesis.
✨Peptides: Aid in collagen production and help improve skin firmness and elasticity.
✨Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Addresses uneven skin tone, reduces redness, and helps improve the skin's barrier function.
✨Ceramides: Restore and maintain the skin's natural barrier, helping to prevent moisture loss and improve hydration.
✨Glycolic Acid: An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates the skin, promoting cell turnover and improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
✨Squalane: Moisturizes and nourishes the skin without clogging pores.
✨Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in certain oils and supplements, omega-3 fatty acids can help maintain skin elasticity and hydration.
✨Sunscreen (SPF): Sun protection is crucial to prevent further damage and premature aging. Look for a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 and apply it daily.
Here's to happy menopause skin and remember every wrinkle tells a story of the incredible journey you've had. Embrace it with a smile.
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