Menopausal Skin Care

Excerpted from an article by Ellen Clark, LE

Aging skin and menopause go hand-in-hand for women "of a certain age." These woman value their free time, realize they have spent much of their lives taking care of others, and value quality time with friends and family. They are also beginning to notice the signs of aging and are likely experiencing peri-menopausal symptoms, but may not understand how biology is really affecting their skin.

Menopause is only "official" when a woman has not menstruated for 12 consecutive months. The average age of menopause in the world population is estimated to be between 45-55, and averages 51 for women in the West, according to numerous sources.

Because the lead-up to menopause is a gradual process, some women simply do not realize that they are experiencing pre-menopausal symptoms, including changes in their skin. And, because we are such a youth-oriented society, some may not want to acknowledge these changes.

External symptoms of skin aging include:

Wrinkles
Skin Dryness
Teleangectasia (dilated blood vessels)
Sagging – Elasticity
Roughness of the Skin
Sallowness
Pigmentation Changes
Skin Sensitivity
Decrease in Sebum Excretion

Technically speaking, much happens below the surface of the skin to cause signs of aging. Cell turnover slows. Changes in pigmentation also occur, caused by decreased estrogen levels Collagen content decreases by one percent every year in adult skin. Diminishing collagen type III is responsible for the loss of the skin’s youthful appearance, elasticity and tightness.

Consider adding these to your current regimen:

Use a hydrating serum or gel under moisturizers to add water and calm the skin.

Use eye creams, as they add lipids to the thinner more delicate skin tissue

Incorporate anti-oxidants such as vitamins A, E, or C to help fight free radical damage and encourage collagen production.