Menopause can be a difficult time. Along with sleep disturbances, moodiness, fatigue, memory, and concentration problems, you may also have to contend with hot flashes, mood swings, weight gain, and skin problems.
Research has found that women in menopause experience accelerated skin aging and skin cancer risk, even compared to women who have a family history of skin cancer.
If you’re in menopause and wondering why your skin is changing, our simple guide to menopause skin changes may help ease your mind and offer solutions for dry, flaky, and pigmented skin.
Understanding Menopause Skin Changes
The average age for a woman to experience menopause is 51, but it can occur as early as 40 or as late as 60. Some women sail through this transition with no problems at all, while others find it accompanied by a host of physical and emotional symptoms. One of the most common and pesky symptoms is changes in your skin.
Here are five skin changes every woman should know about during menopause.
Skin Dryness
The majority of women experience some skin changes during menopause. Skin dryness is the most common complaint and can be caused by declining estrogen levels. The skin may feel dry, tight, and itchy, and it may look flaky or dull.
The loss of estrogen during menopause can cause your skin to become thinner, drier, and less elastic. These changes can start during your 40s and 50s, and become more pronounced as you approach menopause.
Wrinkles and Sagging
As a woman begins to reach menopause, her skin changes in many ways. One of the most noticeable changes is the appearance of wrinkles and sagging. This is due to the decreased production of collagen and elastin, which are proteins that give the skin its structure and elasticity.
The skin also becomes thinner and drier, which can make wrinkles more pronounced especially around your eyes and mouth.
Hot Flashes
As women age, their skin changes in response to shifts in their hormone levels. One of the most noticeable menopause skin changes occurs during menopause when hot flashes cause the skin to flush and perspire. Hot flashes are the most common menopause symptoms, and they can be very uncomfortable.
There are a few things that can help to manage hot flashes and skin changes. Keeping cool, avoiding triggers, and using products like a fascia tool can help.
Dark Spots
As estrogen levels decline, you may start to see more dark spots on your skin, particularly on your face. These are caused by an increase in melanin, the pigment that gives.
These dark spots are usually harmless and disappear after menopause. However, if you are concerned about them, you should see a dermatologist to rule out any other possible causes.
Dealing with Skin Changes During Menopause
There’s no avoiding it, menopause skin changes are inevitable. But that doesn’t mean you have to just sit back and accept them. Take actionable steps to minimize the impact of menopause on your skin by staying hydrated, using gentle cleansers, and applying sunscreen every day.
Menopause may be a natural process, but that doesn’t mean you have to just let it happen to you. Be proactive about your skincare, and menopause will be one less thing to worry about.
If you’re interested in learning more about taking care of your skin or about other aspects of your health, feel free to check out the rest of our blog.
