In this instalment of CNA Women’s series on menopause, we look at how fluctuating hormones affect the skin, what products you should use and avoid, and how to keep your skin healthy and strong.
The skin is the largest organ you have, and it changes with age, including during menopause, when oestrogen levels decline rapidly.
The American Academy of Dermatology said that the collagen in your skin decreases by 30 per cent in the first five years of menopause, and then dips by about 2 per cent every year, for the next 20 years or so, thereafter.become dry, wrinkled, saggy and thinner, as well as have impaired wound healing and decreased antioxidant capacity, said Dr Chiam.SKIN WOES DURING MENOPAUSE
Decreasing oestrogen levels during menopause can lead to the skin becoming more sensitive to ultra-violet rays – don’t leave home without applying sunscreen. Dr Chiam said that some women might begin to notice changes in their skin in their 40s, in the perimenopausal phase, usually a few years before menopause. “Once you notice any of these symptoms, it would be good to change your skincare accordingly.”Slight sagging of skin in some areasHere’s what to do and avoid, to care for menopausal skin:Your skin gets drier as you age, and even more so when approaching menopause, so it’s important not to strip it of the little moisture it has.
For best results, Dr Chiam recommended applying moisturiser on damp skin to allow the ingredients to be absorbed better, and consider topping it off with a facial oil for even more hydration.When it comes to addressing the signs of ageing, retinol and retinoids are often mentioned. An added benefit of retinol and retinoids is it has been shown to be effective in dealing with acne, so it can help with hormonal breakouts.
Also important is sunscreen. Dr Sturm explained that as hormonal levels change, menopausal skin can become thinner and more delicate, and more vulnerable to UV damage.Phytoestrogens are compounds that naturally occur in plants. Dr Chiam explained: “Phytoestrogens exert a weak oestrogen-like effect.” Paula Begoun, founder of Paula’s Choice Skincare, told CNA Women that the effects of oestrogen loss on the skin can be “greatly minimised and even reversed” when phytoestrogens and even prescription oestrogen are used.
Added Dr Sturm: “We’re finally breaking down the stigma around speaking about ageing and menopause, which is naturally generating more interest and inspiring more conversations around wellness, skincare and health.” Clarins Multi-Intensive Super Restorative Treatment Essence, S$117 for 200ml. Gives intense moisture to dry skin and curbs skin slackening with plant-based actives such as harungana, said to have similar effects to retinol. Available at Clarins stores and counters.
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