The moments of most significant change affecting a woman’s life are menopause and premenopause. In the transition period – which can last between 5 and 10 years and is characterized by a very irregular cycle, a reduction in estrogen levels, and which ends with the arrival of menopause – the most evident changes occur, i.e., those that occur in the skin. With the reduction of ovarian function, the production and levels of the hormones that ensure the skin’s characteristics and appearance decrease, causing a change, making it drier and less hydrated and toned.
What Happens To Skin In Menopause?
Estrogen hormones, specifically 17 beta-estradiol, are essential signal molecules. Their production is regulated by expressing a gene called the aromatase gene, which is found in ovarian and peripheral tissues. Menopause causes a condition of estrogen deficiency which is associated with a drastic change in the state of “health” of the skin. Still, it negatively affects its physiology and other important biological functions. The changes include:
- loss of collagen;
- loss of elastin;
- loss of function of fibroblasts;
- alterations in vascularity;
- increased activity of degradative enzymes.
Therefore, dryness, wrinkles, laxity, atrophy, impaired cicatrization, and reduced antioxidant and defense capacity can result even from the sun’s rays. “The adrenal and ovarian glands of postmenopausal women continue to produce androgen hormones. “These hormones, in the absence or decrease of estrogen, can cause other effects such as a deeper voice, the appearance of unwanted facial hair, the appearance of oily or acne-prone skin. Finally, there is also a redistribution of adipose tissue with loss of subcutaneous “support” fat from the face, neck, hands, breasts, and arms, which causes a “sagging” appearance. On the other hand, the fatty tissue tends to be concentrated in the abdomen, hips, and buttocks “.
How To Treat Menopausal Skin
“During menopause, it is important to ensure that the skin and beautiful are also healthy.” “The dermatological examination with skin check-up will be able to verify the state of the skin, set the correct use of cosmetic products, and establish which treatments (aesthetic, regenerative, or dermatological) are most suitable based on the skin situation of the woman, to possibly set a personalized program of cosmetic education and injectable skincare. Many studies have demonstrated the safety of products made with bioidentical hormones, phytohormones, or cosmeceuticals.
Still, they also stressed the importance of relying on the prescription of specialists, avoiding fads, and do-it-yourself. Attention must also be paid to any problems typical of this age group. Actinic keratoses, and skin tumors should be brought to the doctor’s attention. Therefore, it is essential in menopause to understand which products are most suitable and correct habits that can accelerate skin aging, such as smoking, incorrect nutrition, alcohol, sun lamps, and unprotected sun exposure “.
What Does The Skin Need In Menopause?
Hydration
Skin hydration is conditioned by factors such as nutrition and lifestyle, not only by moisturizers. In particular, drinking at least one and a half liters of water a day and preferring fresh vegetables and fruit are habits that help the skin stay adequately hydrated.
Protection
Skin not protected from the sun tends to age faster. Exposure to the sun then the skin to dehydrate more. In winter, the cold, sudden changes in temperature and humidity, and UV rays’ action can affect your health and hydration.
Age-Specific Cosmetics
Changing cosmetics and daily skincare according to your age helps to ensure the beauty and well-being of the skin. There are notable differences between products for young and mature skin.
Supplementation
Beginning in the 1940s, the treatment of menopausal women with estrogenic preparations became famous for treating typical symptoms, such as classic hot flashes. Today, there are much safer approaches, both topical and systemic, to restore hormone deficiency. In addition, vitamin C, silicon, collagen, and selenium supplements can help.
Aesthetic-Regenerative Dermatology
In some cases, creams, serums, and home treatments may not be sufficient to correct wrinkles, dull skin tone, or skin laxity. In these situations, numerous procedures and techniques come into play, such as injectable skincare (fillers, botox, bio revitalisers) and advanced lasers (for rejuvenation and epilators).
Also Read: INTESTINAL FLU: SYMPTOMS AND EFFECTIVE REMEDIES TO FIGHT IT
