It’s a phenomenon that affects 1.7 billion women worldwide and just under 3 million women in Australia. That’s right, we’re talking about menopause. But when it comes to this topic, it seems that our knowledge ends at hot flashes, night sweats and mood swings.
While there’s no denying that perimenopause and menopause can feel like a hormonal upheaval (and mood issue), it can cause a range of changes to our skin, too. This is in part due to the depleting moisture levels, drops in sebum production and increased pigmentation. It’s all a bit of a wild skin ride!
Here, we’ve outlined some of the common skin changes that come with perimenopause and menopause with skin regime tweaks to tackle them.
1. Dehydration, Dry Patches and Overall Increase in Skin Dryness
If you’re moisturising your skin regularly but still notice a lingering dryness, it could be a sign of menopause. As oestrogen and progesterone levels decrease, the loss of hydration can leave the skin feeling firm, tight, and a lot drier than usual.
The skincare upgrade: Swap out your lotion or a light moisturiser gel for something creamier. The Clarins Super Restorative Day Cream For All Skin Types helps lift and re-densify the skin, with wrinkle control. The formula also helps to add radiance and reduce dark spots for a plumper and more youthful complexion.
2. Increase In Random Spots and Acne
As much as we’d like for acne to be a thing from our teenage years, it can rear its head again as we inch closer to our 50s. Unlike the oily, congested skin associated with teenage acne, perimenopausal and menopausal acne can often arrive as a result of extreme dryness (see tip 1.).
So, before you go stocking up on hard-hitting acne solutions, it’s also worth noting that your skin is ultra-sensitive and probably won’t react well to harsh products. Rather, take a targeted approach by applying salicylic acid (a skincare staple for fighting off acne) directly to areas of concern. Follow up with a light moisturiser at night and apply a heavier cream like the Clarins Super Restorative Night Cream for Very Dry Skin to unaffected areas of the face for an added boost of hydration.
3. An Overall Increase Greyness or Dullness
The third common pre-menopause skin change is a loss of radiance or glow, resulting in a dull complexion. This is because as we head towards menopause, skin regeneration begins to slow down, often resulting in a build-up of dead skin cells. And no matter how much moisturiser you apply, you can’t ‘moisturise dead skin away’ to reveal your glow.
Those with dry skin should aim to exfoliate with a gentle exfoliator up to three times a week (or as per product recommendation). Remember, if you’re new to exfoliation, always start slowly, and gradually increase frequency as your skin becomes used to the product and process.
Also, try incorporating hydrating and glow-inducing ingredients (think hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and retinol) into your routine. You’ll be on your way to reclaiming your radiance in no time.
Brought to you by Clarins. Visit here for more information on the new Super Restorative Day and Night Creams.
