4 common skincare concerns during menopause (and how to fix them)

During menopause, your skin might experience some *ahem* challenges. Here are the four major changes, and how to tackle them

As we get older, it’s only natural that our bodies will go through some changes. One of the major one that affects women is menopause. The onset usually starts between your mid-forties and fifties. During this time you will stop menstruating and your estrogen levels will drop. This can come with a host of not-so-pleasant side-effects, such as hot flashes, mood swings and sleep disturbances. But menopause can also wreak havoc on your skin if you don’t implement the necessary changes to your routine. Here are four common concerns and how to fix them.

1. Dryness

Undoubtedly the biggest skin issue plaguing menopausal women is dry skin. This is because our oil glands become less active as we age. That, combined with the misuse of harsh, anti-aging products, can turn your once-plump face dry and flakey. Finish off your nighttime routine by applying a nourishing cream that will add and lock in that much-needed moisture.

We recommend:

Aveeno Absolutely Ageless Restorative Night Cream, $18,74

2. Sagging

Aging is inevitable, and nowhere is this process more visible than on your face. Along with becoming drier, skin also becomes thinner and less elastic as we approach menopause. This can be combated with various injectables, but an at-home alternative is incorporating an active, like retinol, in your skincare routine. Allow your skin to adjust by initially using it once a week and gradually building up to more frequent application.

We recommend:

SkinMedica Retinol Complex 1.0, $93

3. Discoloration

Whether it’s dark circles becoming more pronounced or dark spots caused by years of sun-worshipping, discoloration is a huge concern among many menopausal women. Your skin isn’t able to repair itself like it used to, but you can prevent further damage by using a good sunscreen daily. And, of course, reapplying it every two hours!

We recommend:

The Ordinary Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 Sunscreen with Antioxidants, $12

4. Sensitivity

During menopause, many women experience more skin sensitivity and slower wound healing. This is because as we age our skin becomes thinner, making it more prone to irritation. Some women even report a worsening of existing skincare conditions. Look for products with calming, soothing ingredients and ones that balance pH-levels of the skin which, in turn, will yield a healthy, radiant complexion.