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Article 18
Caring for your skin in menopause
Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life that brings about a multitude of changes, both internally and externally. Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years, characterised by a declining production of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. This can lead to an array of unwelcome changes ranging from acne reminiscent of teen years, to the unexpected development of wrinkles.
While hormonal shifts are well-known, the impact on our skin is often overlooked. Delving into the transformations the skin undergoes during menopause can help us adapt skincare routines to meet its evolving needs. We have curated a guide covering the most common skin changes associated with menopause and the most effective ways of supporting your skin through this time.
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Collagen
During menopause, the swift decline in estrogen levels significantly accelerates the loss of collagen in the skin. Estrogen plays a pivotal role in stimulating fibroblasts, the cells responsible for collagen production. As estrogen diminishes, the activity of these fibroblasts decreases, resulting in a reduction in collagen synthesis. The consequence is a loss in structural support for the skin, leading to a loss of elasticity. This lack of elasticity contributes to sagging skin and the development of fine lines, particularly around areas prone to expression - such as the eyes and mouth. Studies have shed light on the magnitude of this collagen decline, indicating that women may experience a loss of approximately 30% of their skin's collagen within the initial five years of menopause. *
This rapid collagen depletion underscores the need for targeted, collagen boosting skincare. We recommend the Emma Lewisham Supernatural Face Crème Riche for its advanced end-to-end collagen boosting technology which has been independently proven to reduce the appearance, number and depth of wrinkles while improving skin hydration, elasticity, firmness and suppleness.
We would also recommend the Emma Lewisham Supernatural Face Oil which is an ultra-firming, nutrient rich oil that is proven to outperform retinol at stimulating the cells that produce collagen.
Sun Protection
Throughout menopause, the pronounced decline in estrogen increases the importance of sun protection for skin health. Estrogen has a role in maintaining the skin's natural defense mechanisms and as it decreases, the skin becomes more vulnerable to the damaging effects of the sun. This vulnerability arises from a reduction in the skin's ability to repair and regenerate, making it imperative to shield against harmful UV rays. With thinner skin as a common menopausal change, the need for protection becomes even more crucial.
Incorporating a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 into your daily skincare routine is essential. We recommend the Emma Lewisham Skin Shield SPF 30 which is independently proven to provide broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection while hydrating and strengthening the skin.
“While hormonal shifts are well-known, the impact on our skin is often overlooked. Delving into the transformations the skin undergoes during menopause can help us adapt skincare routines to meet its evolving needs.”
Acne
Estrogen has a regulatory effect on sebum production, the skin's natural oil. As estrogen diminishes, sebum production can become imbalanced, leading to an overproduction of oil.
Less estrogen and progesterone are available to balance out other hormones like testosterone which can further stimulate the sebaceous glands, intensifying oil production. Excess oil, in turn, creates an environment conducive to the clogging of pores, giving rise to acne.
We recommend the Emma Lewisham Supernatural Blemish Serum which harnesses a live skin-strain probiotic that is scientifically proven to reduce and prevent acne and blemishes by inhibiting C. acnes (the bacteria that causes pimples) while balancing the skin microbiome for optimal skin health and condition.
Hyperpigmentation
The thinning of the skin, a common characteristic of menopausal changes, intensifies the visibility of hyperpigmentation. With a reduction in the protective barrier and underlying support, the skin becomes more susceptible to factors that trigger pigmentation irregularities - such as sun exposure and inflammation. As a result, existing areas of hyperpigmentation may appear more pronounced, and new areas may develop.
To combat this, we recommend the Emma Lewisham Skin Reset Serum which targets multiple points of the skin’s pigmentation process and is independently proven to reduce and prevent hyperpigmentation while evening skin tone and brightening the complexion.
References
*www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/anti-aging/skin-care-during-menopause
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