Menopause Makeovers! (for better skin)
It’s not called the ‘the change’ for nothing. As well as causing hot flushes, vaginal dryness, decreased sex drive and memory fog the menopause also affects our skin explains Marvice, Master Skin Therapist.
Rapidly dropping levels of the hormone oestrogen are one of the main culprits. Oestrogen aids water retention and plumpness in the skin so when it drops, we lose some of the molecules that help keep the skin moisturized.
But don’t despair we offer a variety of treatments to help fight the signs of the ageing and the menopause.
What’s happening to your skin?
As well as a loss of plumpness you may notice a few different changes happening to your skin if you are menopausal. For example:
Brown ‘age’ spots on your face, neck and the backs of your hands.
Dryness and sensitivity.
Loss of collagen making skin thinner and more lined and wrinkled.
Acne breakouts.
Unwanted hairs growing on your chin or upper lip.
Reducing the appearance of age spots
“You don’t have to live with those tell-tale age spots,” says Marvice. As well as creams, there are facial peels which can fade individual spots and enhance the overall brightness and youthful appearance of the skin.
Always protect your hands
Hands, along with the rest of your skin, need protection every day of the year from the damaging and ageing effects of the sun. Cover up or use a SPF 30+ broad spectrum sunscreen (ask us for advice on which products are best for you).
Don’t forget – damaging UVA rays can penetrate window glass so be careful in the car or when sitting by a window.
Chemical peels can also reduce the appearance of age spots and smooth out wrinkles and rough skin.
Dealing with dryness and sensitivity
“You may find that the products you’ve used for years suddenly don’t agree with your skin anymore, or no longer work to ward off dryness,” explains Marvice.
If your skin is now prone to irritation, avoid perfumed products and those that are coloured or contain alcohol.
Marvice adds, “We can advise on which products will offer an excellent homecare routine for your menopausal skin, helping to rehydrate it, reduce sensitivity and give you back your youthful glow” says Marvice
Drawing a line under wrinkles
“I’m a big fan of Retinol as it can deliver some amazing results, making menopausal skin look younger, brighter and smoother” says Marvice.
“However, to ensure you get the best results there are some important do’s and don’ts when it comes to starting a course of treatment– so book a consultation with one of our skin experts to find out more.”
Dealing with acne breakouts
Menopause can cause acne breakouts, but don’t treat it with off-the-shelf acne creams that are mostly aimed at teenagers. These will usually be too harsh and drying for older skin. Pop in for a consultation and we can advise on gentle cleansers, for example, those containing salicylic acid.
Getting rid of those pesky facial hairs
Tweezing, waxing, hair removal cream and threading are all tried and trusted methods for getting rid of unwanted facial hair. You can ask our advice about any of these or the more permanent methods of hair removal such as electrolysis or laser treatments.
Book your free consultation today
If you’d like to give your menopausal skin a real boost, come in for a skin consultation. Our skincare experts will talk you through all the best solutions for your skin type and advise on the best products for home use.