As a woman enters her menopause years, her body undergoes many physical changes that affect her overall health, including in the skin. Menopause is a natural biological process in which a woman’s body stops producing estrogen and progesterone, causing hot flashes, night sweats, and other physical symptoms. Beyond these symptoms, menopause can also cause aging skin because of the way hormones affect skin cells.
How Menopause Affects Skin Aging
During menopause, the loss of hormones like estrogen, leads to a decrease in collagen production and the natural hydration of skin cells. This decrease in collagen and hydration can cause the skin to become thin and more prone to developing wrinkles, age spots, and sagging skin. The decrease in hydration can also lead to dryness and flaky skin, which can accentuate the appearance of wrinkles and lines.
Ways to Combat Aging Skin During Menopause
Women in their menopause years can still reduce signs of aging skin to keep their skin looking healthy and youthful. First and foremost, it’s important for women in their menopause years to keep their skin hydrated. Increasing hydration can be done by using a daily moisturizer, using a humidifier at night, and drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Additionally, women should look for skincare products containing antioxidants and vitamins like Vitamin C, which can help protect the skin from environmental stressors which can break down collagen and lead to wrinkles.
Seeing a Professional
While skincare products containing antioxidants and vitamins can help prevent aging skin, ultimately, some women may want to seek more dramatic skin changes during their menopause years. In that case, there are professional medical treatments like microneedling, lasers, and chemical peels that can help tighten skin, reduce age spots and wrinkles, and restore the vibrancy of skin cells. Women undergoing menopause should talk with their doctor to learn more about these treatments and to determine if they’re right for them.
Menopause can be an uncomfortable time for many women, but it doesn’t have to mean signs of aging skin. With the right skincare routine and professional treatments if necessary, women can continue to maintain youthful skin in their menopause years.
