How Does Menopause Affect the Skin?
Menopause is a natural process that all women go through, typically between the ages of 45 and 55. It occurs when the ovaries stop producing estrogen and progesterone, two hormones that play an important role in skin health.
The decrease in estrogen levels during menopause can lead to a number of skin changes, including:
- Dryness: Estrogen helps to keep the skin hydrated, so when levels decline, the skin can become dry and flaky.
- Loss of elasticity: Estrogen also helps to produce collagen and elastin, which are proteins that keep the skin firm and youthful. As estrogen levels decrease, collagen and elastin production decreases as well, leading to loss of elasticity and wrinkles.
- Hyperpigmentation: Estrogen also helps to regulate melanin production, the pigment that gives skin its color. When estrogen levels decline, melanin production can become uneven, leading to hyperpigmentation (dark patches on the skin).
Simple Steps Big Changes
To promote the health and vitality of menopausal skin, it's crucial to consider your lifestyle choices. Begin by staying well-hydrated with plenty of water to maintain internal moisture balance. Ensure your diet is balanced, rich in antioxidants, essential vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Opt for a clean and healthy lifestyle by avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake, as these habits can accelerate the aging process. Stress-reduction practices like yoga, meditation, or mindfulness can have a profound impact on your skin's well-being, as stress can exacerbate skin issues during menopause.
For more information on simple lifestyle changes that can help to relieve symptoms check out the NHS guide.
Skincare Ingredients for Menopause
Incorporating specific ingredients into your skincare routine can help to mitigate the affects of the menopause on the skin. Here are some popular skincare ingredients that can be used to mitigate the effects of menopause on the skin:
- Hyaluronic acid: Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, which means it attracts and retains moisture. It is a great ingredient for hydrating the skin and reducing dryness. Products containing Hyaluronic Acid will help lock in moisture leaving your skin looking fuller and feeling refreshed.
- Snail mucin: Snail mucin is a secretion from snails that has been shown to have a number of skincare benefits, including improving hydration, elasticity, and wound healing.
- Niacinamide: Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that has been shown to improve skin barrier function, reduce hyperpigmentation, and brighten the skin.
- Peptides: Peptides are short chains of amino acids that can help to stimulate collagen and elastin production. They are a great ingredient for improving skin elasticity and reducing wrinkles.
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Propolis: Propolis is a resinous substance produced by bees that has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is a great ingredient for soothing the skin and reducing redness.
For a full in-depth guide to how menopause affects the skin and how skincare can help to cope with this Healthline have put together a comprehensive list of Menopause Skincare Tips. If you're concerned about the impact of the menopause on your state of mind take a look at the Mental Health Foundation's guide.
Korean Skincare For Menopause
Korean skincare is known for its focus on hydration, anti-aging, and brightening. It's acknowledged as the most advanced in the world while also being more affordable than its European and American counterparts. This makes it a great choice for women going through or having been through menopause.
By using Korean skincare products that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, snail mucin, niacinamide, peptides, and propolis, you can help to hydrate, repair, and protect your skin, and reduce the signs of aging.
Here are a few Korean skincare products that feature the ingredients listed above:
- COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence : This essence is packed with snail mucin to help hydrate, repair, and protect the skin. It is also a great source of hyaluronic acid and niacinamide.
- Etude Moistfull Collagen Peptide Intense Sheet Mask: This sheet mask is packed with collagen peptides and a potent 25ml of skin-loving essence, designed to deeply hydrate, plump, and revitalize your complexion. The unique 3-layer microfiber sheet adheres snugly to your face, ensuring maximum absorption of the rich, rejuvenating formula.
- Isntree Hyaluronic Airy Sun Stick: This high-protection sunscreen contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin while also protecting it from the sun's harmful UV rays. It is a lightweight and non-greasy sunscreen that is perfect for everyday use.
- Skinfood Royal Honey Propolis Enrich Barrier Cream: Enriched with royal honey and propolis, this cream delivers potent hydration and helps repair the skin's barrier, promoting a healthier and more resilient complexion.
Refresh Skincare
Here at Refresh Skincare we offer a wide range of high-quality products from top Korean brands. We're updating and adding to our range all the time, plus there's free UK tracked delivery on all orders over £25.
For peace of mind we offer a 30 day returns policy if you change your mind. You can save 10% on your first order when you subscribe to our email newsletter, and be the first to find out about new brands, special offers and the latest blogs and guides.
About the Author
Priscilla
Skincare fanatic and co-founder of Refresh Skincare
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