There are many symptoms associated with menopause, and the time is over where women are expected to adopt a “put up with it” attitude. Luckily conversation is now open about this very normal stage of life that every women goes through.

So… ladies we have put together everything you need to know about how perimenopause and menopause affects the skin, plus tips on skincare ingredients and routine, so you can rock this time and love the skin you’re in!

Once you hit menopause, or are in the midst of perimenopause (which often starts in your mid-40s when oestrogen starts to decline), your hormone balance shifts resulting in complexion upset.

During menopause your skin can become dry, thinner and less elastic, and you may see skin conditions like acne or sensitivity arise while repair takes longer because your cells are multiplying at a slower rate.

As women move further into menopause, there’s a constant oestrogen-deficit state. What that means is that, the ageing process is sped up. Why? Because oestrogen is crucial for the stimulation of collagen and elastin.

In fact, did you know that collagen drops by 30% in the first 5 years of menopause?

Everyone’s skin concerns during this period are different, but! In saying this, there are a few core 'rules' our skin experts at Harmony recommend you should follow (and some you should not) to lessen these effects.

1. Use active/medical grade skincare…

Active ingredients in skincare are designed to address specific concerns related to skin, like sun damage, acne, dryness, ageing and so on.

Medical-grade brands, such O Cosmedics and DP Dermaceuticals, are useful during menopause because you are getting a high level of these active ingredients that can work to support collagen production and boost the normal activities of your skin that come ‘lazy’ with age.

It is important to go easy, especially if tolerance hasn’t been built up prior. We can give you all the guidance you need on this process.

2. Remove all traces of makeup…

This goes for any age and really is a non-negotiable we should all follow. The key takeaway here for the menopausal stage is to keep gently, gently as a mantra in your mind. You don’t want to be using anything harsh on your more delicate skin.

Look for a cleanser that doesn’t harm or strip skin of its natural oils but does reveal clarity and radiance – O Cosmedics Gentle Antioxidant Cleanser or Tri-Phase Cleanser by Dp Dermaceuticals is that perfect option.

3. Use Retinol…

This superstar ingredient helps to stimulate collagen production (think brighter, plumper, thicker-looking skin). Menopausal skin can be improved with retinol and in combination with vitamin C, AHA/BHA, and vitamin B3 for example, but always talk to us first to understand the best skincare plan to suit your individual needs.

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4. Get enough sleep…

Your skin needs rest and sleep is essential to skin health because it’s when skin repairs itself and makes collagen. We love elevating this natural process with the O Cosmedics Hydra Plus Sleep-In Mask, a jam-packed booster which works like a “facial while you sleep” and is loaded with skin hydration and calming properties – just what you need!

5. Always see a professional…

Amazing skin results are achieved in clinic – it’s that simple. You may be thinking, “I’ve got this far without seeing anyone, why do I need to see a professional now?”, it’s an important time to ensure that what you’re doing in your skincare routine and beyond is actually working for you in every age and stage of your life. It doesn’t need to be complex, it’s about your Skin Therapist breaking it down for you and ensuring each step is working in the correct way. You want to deliver the correct active ingredients to your skin, in order to make a real difference after all.

6. Don’t use anything drying…

Again, dry skin can occur at any age for a multitude of reasons, but skin that is over 50 is very good at being dry. This is because fewer natural oils are being produced, sun damage is increased and cell renewal is decreased.

The key here is to ensure that the barrier is replenished and protected, so skin isn’t left thirsty and therefore more prone to fine lines and poor skin texture. Look for a hydrator that traps moisture in but also deflects environmental impurities, like Dp Dermaceuticals Skin Veneer or the Regenerative Nourishing Cream by Ginger&ME.

7. Don’t forget SPF…

Even if you have been dodging UV rays, pigmentation can start to build up, as menopausal skin is more vulnerable to environmental aggressors. A common mistake we see people making is not applying sunscreen across their décolletage and on their hands. So remember to apply in these areas to avoid excess damage.

8. Don’t shun in-clinic treatments…

The more you support collagen production, the more youthful you can look even when hormones change. Our go to treatments? Dermapen Microneedling triggers collagen production for up to 2 years following an in-clinic procedure. Whilst, Advanced Peels such as the O Cosmedics Cataylst Retinol or Alpha Beta Peel work to stimulate cell turnover and rejuvenation, a step up from your usual facial working to resurface the skin.

Are you actively taking steps to improve your skin health and general wellbeing?
Talk to the experts at Harmony Skin & Beauty about reaching your skin goals.