This one is for all of our perimenopausal and menopausal women out there! You go your whole life figuring out what works for you and your skin, only for everything to change and have to be figured out again. Read on for tips on managing skincare throughout the major changes of menopause.

What Is Menopause?

Menopause is a natural biological process that signifies the end of a woman's menstrual cycle and reproductive years. Typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55, menopause is officially diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. This transition is accompanied by significant hormonal changes, particularly a decline in estrogen levels. These hormonal shifts can lead to various physical symptoms, including skin health and appearance changes.

How Menopause Affects the Skin

Below, we list the menopause skin changes you are likely to experience. The biggest culprit for all of these changes is decreased estrogen, collagen, and elastin production.

• Loss of Elasticity: The decline in collagen and elastin production results in less firm and less elastic skin.
• Thinning of the Skin: Skin becomes thinner and more fragile due to decreased cell turnover.
• Increased Sensitivity: The skin may become more sensitive to environmental factors and skincare products.
• Slower Healing Process: Wound healing slows down, and bruising may occur more easily.
• More Pronounced Wrinkles and Fine Lines: The reduction in collagen contributes to deeper wrinkles and fine lines.

Menopause and Dry Skin

One of the most common skin changes during menopause is increased dryness. As estrogen levels drop, the skin’s ability to retain moisture diminishes, weakening the skin barrier. Menopause induced dry skin can cause discomfort, making the skin more prone to irritation and external damage. To combat dry skin during menopause, it is crucial to focus on hydration and barrier repair in your skincare routine.

What to Change in Your Skincare for Menopausal Skin

Adapting your skincare routine during menopause is essential to address the changes in your skin. Prioritize hydration. The best moisturizer for dry menopausal skin will feature hyaluronic acid and ceramides. Use gentle cleansers and mild exfoliants like lactic acid to avoid irritation. Incorporate peptides to boost collagen production and improve skin elasticity. Always apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect against UV damage. Avoid harsh ingredients like alcohol and strong acids that further dry out and irritate the skin. By making these adjustments, you can maintain a healthy, radiant complexion throughout menopause.

Menopause Skin Care Routine

We have already established that menopause and skin care go hand in hand. If you want to age gracefully and get through menopause with a little less hardship, you need to take care of your skin. Follow our menopause skincare routine to do just that.

Cleanse

Start with a gentle, hydrating cleanser that removes impurities without stripping your skin of its natural oils. Look for cleansers with ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid, which help retain moisture and keep your skin feeling soft and smooth.

Silicone Face Patches

Dermaclara silicone patches are a game-changer for menopausal skin. Our patches lock in moisture and promote better skin texture by creating a barrier that reduces water loss. Use them on areas prone to wrinkles, like the forehead and around the eyes, to minimize fine lines and improve overall skin appearance.

Exfoliate

Exfoliation is key to removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover, but it’s essential to be gentle. Opt for mild exfoliants such as lactic acid or fruit enzymes, which exfoliate without causing irritation. Limit exfoliation to 1-2 times per week to avoid over-drying your skin.

Moisturize

When selecting a menopause face cream, choose rich, hydrating moisturizers. Look for products containing ceramides, shea butter, or hyaluronic acid to replenish your skin’s moisture barrier and keep it hydrated throughout the day.

Peptides for Menopause

Incorporate products with peptides into your routine. Peptides are small proteins that help stimulate collagen production, improving skin elasticity and firmness. They can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and give your skin a more youthful look.

Sunscreen

Protecting your skin from UV damage is crucial, especially during menopause, when your skin may be more vulnerable. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, regardless of the weather. This will help prevent further aging and protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

The best skincare for menopausal skin is consistent. This routine is not one-and-done! Establish a skincare regimen that you return to day and night. Only then will you achieve more permanent changes and improvements to your skin.

What Skincare Ingredients Should Be Avoided During Menopause?

To maintain your skin’s health and appearance, it's essential to be mindful of the ingredients in your skincare products. Here are some ingredients you should avoid:

Alcohol-Based Products

Alcohol can be extremely drying and irritating, especially for menopausal skin. Avoid products with high alcohol content, as they can strip your skin of natural oils and exacerbate dryness.

Harsh Exfoliants

Strong exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) in high concentrations or physical scrubs with large, coarse particles can cause micro-tears in the skin and lead to increased sensitivity. Opt for gentle exfoliants like lactic acid or enzyme-based products instead.

Synthetic Fragrances

Synthetic and natural fragrances can cause irritation and allergic reactions, particularly in sensitive menopausal skin. Choose fragrance-free products to minimize the risk of irritation and inflammation.

Parabens

While the research on parabens is ongoing, some studies suggest they can disrupt hormonal balance. Given the hormonal changes already occurring during menopause, it may be wise to avoid parabens to prevent potential additional disruption.

Sulfates

Sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate, are commonly found in cleansers and shampoos. They can be harsh and strip the skin of essential moisture, leading to dryness and irritation. Look for sulfate-free alternatives to keep your skin hydrated.

Retinoids in High Concentrations

While retinoids can be beneficial for anti-aging, high concentrations can cause dryness and irritation. If you use retinoids, opt for lower concentrations and gradually introduce them into your routine.

Benzoyl Peroxide

Often used to treat acne, benzoyl peroxide can be too harsh for menopausal skin, leading to dryness and irritation. If acne is a concern, consider gentler alternatives like salicylic acid.

Whether you are perimenopausal and prepping for menopausal or deep in it, Dermaclara has your back! Follow our guide and achieve the skin you deserve.