Menopause brings about significant changes beyond the end of menstruation, impacting various aspects of a woman’s health, including her skin. These changes can be unexpected and challenging. As hormone levels fluctuate and decrease, the skin—our largest organ—shows clear signs of these changes.
Let’s take a closer look at what happens to our skin during menopause and how to better protect it from these effects.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that when estrogen and progesterone levels drop during menopause, the skin loses some of its ability to stay resilient and elastic. Estrogen is particularly vital for maintaining skin moisture and producing collagen—a protein that keeps skin firm and stretchy. As menopause progresses, collagen production drops significantly, leading to noticeable differences in the skin. It may become thinner, less full, and lose its youthful appearance. It may also bruise more easily and become dry and itchy.
A reduction in the skin’s natural oil production also makes dryness more common, causing the skin to look dull and feel rough, particularly on the face, neck, and hands. As estrogen levels decrease, it’s more difficult for the skin to hold onto moisture. This weakens its protective barrier and makes the skin more vulnerable to environmental damage, such as sun exposure, pollution, and cold, which can dry it out further and accelerate the aging process.
Additionally, many women notice their skin starts to sag. This happens because the skin loses elastic fibers, which, along with the decline in collagen, reduces the skin’s structural support. As a result, areas that were once tight and firm—such as the jawline, under the eyes, and the neck—may begin to sag. Wrinkles also become more pronounced because the skin doesn’t bounce back as quickly as before.
Menopausal changes include alterations in the skin’s blood vessels, which can make the skin appear more prominently red, especially in the cheeks. These changes can also interfere with the skin’s ability to respond to hot flashes that make the skin look red temporarily. Changes in blood vessels and collagen can also affect facial contours, potentially leading to a more uneven complexion. Some women may experience skin conditions such as rosacea, which might need specific treatments from a dermatologist.
While these changes may seem daunting, dealing with them doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Taking good care of your skin—keeping it hydrated, protecting it from the sun, eating a balanced diet, and using suitable skincare products—can make a significant difference. Consulting with a dermatologist about a women’s self care kit can help manage these skin changes. It’s important to remember that these changes can be managed, and with the right approach, you can continue to feel confident in how your skin looks and feels.
