Overview
Menopause heralds a new stage in a woman’s life, accompanied by many changes throughout the body, including the skin. Many women in their 40s and 50s are surprised to suddenly notice changes such as dryness, itching, acne, and age spots. Understanding the science behind these changes can help you design an effective skincare routine for maturing skin during the menopausal transition.
Clinical Features of Menopause
Areas of the body with high estrogen receptor concentrations, such as the genital areas, face, and lower limbs, are particularly susceptible to the effects of declining estrogen levels, resulting in premature aging and increased dryness. Other signs include:
- Irregular periods
- Hot flushes
- Skin changes (dryness, laxity, hyperpigmentation)
- Loss of libido
- Sexual discomfort (lack of lubrication, pain)
- Vaginal dryness
- Urinary symptoms (urgency, dysuria, frequent UTIs)
- Hair loss (alopecia)
- Thickening of palm and sole skin
- Insomnia
- Worsening of premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
- Racing heart (heart palpitations)
- Headaches
- Joint and muscle aches and pains
- Changes in libido (sex drive)
- Weight gain
- Menopause can cause a variety of emotional changes, including:
- Lack of motivation and difficulty concentrating and memory lapses
- Anxiety, depression, mood changes, and tension
- Aggressiveness and irritability
After menopause, you are at higher risk of osteoporosis (brittle bone disease) and heart disease. cells, requiring significant cellular energy to repair. Early intervention with the right skincare can help mitigate these effects.
