Going through life transitions can be frightening, like when you start a family, began a business, or even reach retirement. It is a bittersweet goodbye and an exciting hello to a new beginning. Menopause is one of those changes. During menopause, the drop in estrogen levels causes a reduction in collagen and elastin in the skin. In fact, 30% of the collagen is lost within the first 5 years, according to The American Journal of Pathology.
As modern women are embracing each new stage that life brings, one study showed that 81% of women between 40 – 45 years old were positive about the changes, while only 38% had realistic expectations about what menopause entails – especially on our skin.
Menopause and your skin
Menopause is a natural, but complex process that women experience during their later years. It affects the entire body, both internally and externally, leaving an impact on the skin. The hormonal changes that happen during menopause deplete the skin’s resources. As women get closer to menopause, their skin can weaken and result in early fine lines and wrinkles.
Such changes include:
- Atrophic withering, also known as skin aging
- Scaliness and dryness
- Sagging skin
- Slackness
- Wrinkles
- Thinning epidermis
- Facial hair
In a nutshell, skin dries, sags, and thins as we age. Thus, making it more important to support hydration as oil glands are less active than they once were. The good news is that we have access to a variety of formulas that work towards a deeper level to restore our skin’s youth.
Preparing Your Skin for Menopause
The safest way to prepare your skin for the effects of menopause is to develop a routine that meets your current changes. This regimen should nourish and strengthen the skin at its deepest levels. In fact, you will want to promote the synthesis of collagen, maintain its active water content with humectants, and protect the skin from environmental factors like pollutants and UV rays. Not to mention, maintaining a consistency in your skincare routine.
Ingredients That Benefit Menopausal Skin
When it comes to skincare, substances like vitamin A can show powerful results but will work over time. Whether you have many years to prepare for menopause or are already feeling the effects, it’s all about self-care habits. In addition to proper maintenance, the ingredients you use will also play a powerful role in the appearance of your skin during menopause.
Hyaluronic acid
As a well-known power molecule that holds up to 1000x its weight in water, HA is the “most adaptable macromolecule present in the connective tissues.” Its unique ability to connect to water molecules means it pulls moisture and keeps it in the skin. This provides a healthy environment for cells to function at their best, according to studies by Advances in Food and Nutrition Research. As a result, HA can help calm inflammation and protect the skin from UV damage.
Colostrum
Contained with the same components found in mother’s milk, Colostrum is known for its ability to promote cell growth and regeneration while delivering vital immune factors. While this ingredient isn’t vegan-friendly, it is packed with the fats, antibodies, and proteins you need to protect the skin barrier and stimulate collagen production. In addition to vitamin A, probiotics, and peptides, be sure to use retinol facial oil to help combat signs of aging.
These all-natural ingredients are easily absorbed by the skin, leaving you with a dewy, glowing complexion. Be sure to understand the effects that are likely to occur from the changing hormone levels and adjust your skin care accordingly. That way, you can respond by protecting your skin with the best ingredients available on the market.
