Everyone talks about how hot flashes are normal during menopause, but few people talk about other bodily changes that occur during this time – like skin changes. As a teenager, many of us wrestled with acne and other skin issues because hormones were chaotic and all over the place. Turns out similar changes happen when a person enters menopause because again, hormones are all over the place. Here’s what you need to know.
How does menopause affect skin?
Estrogen plays a critical role in how your skin looks and feels since it drives the formation of collagen and elastic. These are the building blocks essential to keeping your skin hydrated and plump. As estrogen declines during perimenopause and menopause, your skin changes. Aside from estrogen, relative levels of androgens, which are known to influence your skin’s oil production and even hair growth can also affect how your skin appears. With lower estrogen comes:
Looser, thinner skin and fine lines
While fine lines and thinner skin are a natural part of the aging process, these signs are exacerbated when estrogen levels decrease. But all hope isn’t lost when it comes to treatment these signs of aging.
Start with good sun care. The sun can speed up chronological aging, so wear a broad-spectrum facial sunscreen every day. Use skincare products that include retinol or peptides. Our favorite products are from Emepelle, which is the first and only line of skincare products that help improve the appearance of estrogen-deficient skin.
Laser treatments are another option to explore. At Visage Skin Care & Laser Center, a division of Robinson Facial Plastic Surgery, we offer an assortment of laser treatments, customizable to your skin’s needs:
- HALO Laser Resurfacing – A hybrid fractional laser that takes years of damage off your face to reveal your inner glow.
- BioRevitalization PRX-T33 – Skin beautifying Treatment from Italy.
- BBL Corrective Therapy – Intense pulses of light energy restore a more youthful complexion by precisely treating visible signs of aging.
- Nano Laser Peel – The gentle power of light instantly removes layers of damaged skin to reveal smooth and luminous skin.
- Micro Laser Peel – Know as the “weekend peel” that removes a thin layer of damaged skin to improve texture.
Brittle and dry skin
Aside from looser, thinner skin and fine lines, brittle and dry skin is another result from lower estrogen levels. As a result, consider washing with mild cleansers and bumping up your moisturizing routine. Be sure to use a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid or glycerin as both ingredients help your skin retain water.
Adult acne
Increased prevalence of androgens can cause blemishes to pop up since your skin’s oil production is in overdrive. Fortunately, acne is highly treatable. A salicylic acne wash can prevent clogged pores and prescription acne medications are more effective than over-the-counter acne treatments.
Changes to your skin are a natural part of aging, but at Robinson Facial Plastic Surgery, we have a wealth of options to help you look and feel like your best self. Schedule a consultation with us today!
