Menopause greatly affects the skin due to a decrease in estrogen, a hormone essential for multiple skin processes. Estrogen regulates sebum, collagen, elastin, hyaluronic acid production, hydration, wound healing, and melanocytes (the cells responsible for pigmentation). As estrogen levels decline, skin aging accelerates, leading to thinner, drier, more sensitive skin that is more susceptible to age spots.
How Menopause affects the skin
The initial four years of the menopause is the most critical time to support your skin as this is when up to around 30% of our natural collagen is lost, with a further 2% decrease each year.
Explore Our Top Skincare Tips:
Tip 1 - Incorporate a facial oil daily to help counteract reduced sebum production, which can weaken the skin barrier and lead to transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and heightened sensitivity.
Tip 2 - Add ceramides to your routine to reinforce the skin barrier and support moisture retention.
Tip 3 - Use hydrating actives. Our Isotonic Hydra-Serum provides immediate hydration while encouraging the skin’s own production of hyaluronic acid (HA) and preventing HA breakdown, which naturally declines during menopause.
Tip 4 - Try actives that stimulate blood flow to enhance nutrient delivery to the skin, addressing the paler complexion that may occur with reduced circulation.
Tip 5 - Look for actives that promote fibroblast activity, supporting collagen and elastin production, such as growth factors and peptides.
Tip 6 - Incorporate ingredients that act as co-factors in collagen and elastin production, like sulfur, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, zinc, copper, and amino acids.
What else can we do?
For menopausal skin, focusing on specific nutrients can help counteract the effects of estrogen decline and support skin health. Here are the top nutrients to include:
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Vitamin C – Aids collagen synthesis, supports skin elasticity, and has antioxidant properties to protect from free radical damage.
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Vitamin A (Retinol) – Encourages cell turnover and collagen production, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve skin texture.
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Vitamin E – Moisturizes and strengthens the skin barrier, while its antioxidant properties protect against environmental stressors.
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Essential Fatty Acids (Omega-3 & Omega-6) – Hydrates skin from within, supporting elasticity and preventing dryness.
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Zinc – Supports wound healing and helps reduce inflammation, which can benefit sensitive or irritated menopausal skin.
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Copper – Essential for collagen and elastin production, supporting skin firmness and elasticity.
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Sulfur – Plays a role in collagen synthesis and has natural anti-inflammatory effects.
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Hyaluronic Acid (HA) – Though not a nutrient, HA is vital for skin hydration; applying it topically or using products that support HA production helps maintain moisture.
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Polyphenols – Antioxidants found in foods like green tea, berries, and olive oil that combat oxidative stress and help maintain a radiant complexion.
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Phytoestrogens (like soy isoflavones) – Plant-based compounds with estrogen-like effects that can help support skin structure and moisture retention in the absence of natural estrogen.
These nutrients, whether included in skincare products or consumed as part of a balanced diet, can help mitigate the signs of aging and dryness associated with menopause.
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