The Mayo News

Caring for menopausal skin


Skin Specialist
Bernie Fahy

The menopause is a life-changing process for women. The physiological and psychological changes that occur at this juncture are as dramatic as puberty and adolescence. The skin reflects this crossroads in various ways. Menopausal skin can often be dry and sallow due to hormonal disruption. Other common complaints include uneven pigmentation; wrinkles and sagging of the jaw line and neck; acne breakouts, rosacea, red veins and itchy skin; increasingly course facial hair, particularly on chins and upper lips; and varicose veins on the skin surface, causing distress and self-image issues.

Treatments
Acne breakouts in menopause can be very distressing. The ovarian hormone estradiol is used by the body to defend itself against acne, but this hormone fails at mid-life. Herbal peels and microdermabrasion are simple procedures that can address acne, wrinkles and pigmentation. Exfoliation is another simple procedure that sloughs off dead skin cells and improves circulation resulting in a fresher-looking face.
Essential oils professionally massaged into the skin by a trained therapist help to hydrate the skin, improve circulation – and relax the mind.
The importance of always using sunscreen on the face and other exposed areas cannot be overestimated. Menopausal women should also moisturise more intensely: The more hydrated your skin is, the more plumped up your skin cells will be. Use a toner to help close the pores and prevent blockages, and remove makeup every night by using pH-balanced cleansers.
When looking for skin products always chose those that contain water, lanolin, petroleum and/or mineral oil. When washing the face, leave a little water on the skin before applying moisturiser. This simple step will trap more moisture into the layers of the skin.
A qualified professional can easily remove red veins by cauterisation. Likewise, facial hair is easily treated with electrolysis or laser hair removal.
Specialised stockings available in pharmacies easily support varicose veins. Keep your legs elevated as much as possible. Exercise will also help the circulation flow. Surgery may be the solution for you, but only on medical advice.
A good and inexpensive way to improve menopausal skin is to make your own skin treatments in your own kitchen. Plain yoghurt with fresh fruit makes an excellent natural replenishing mask. Tea bags and cucumber are great soothers for the delicate skin around the eyes. Ground oatmeal mixed with honey can gently slough off dead skin cells on face and neck.

Diet
As you travel through menopause, your body looses its oils, dulling the skin. A tablespoon of safflower, olive, sunflower or canola oil (either straight, or added to a salad dressing) is recommended. Flaxseed oil is also beneficial. Drinking plenty of water and having adequate fibre in your diet is advised to aid digestion and detox.
Constipation is a huge problem for skin health as it causes spots. Brown rice, wheat germ and whole grains all combine to enhance intestinal health.
Soya can strengthen hair and nails that become brittle in mid-life. Photo-oestrogen contained in soya strengthens collagen everywhere in the body. This includes vaginal tissue and even bone.
Tomatoes and citrus fruits provide much needed potassium that is depleted in menopausal women. Green vegetables have healing properties for the skin. Oily fish like salmon and mackerel will provide essential fatty acids for a hydrated and supple complexion. Try to add seaweed to your diet, as it contains natural hormones and plant chemicals that can help menopausal skin.
Vitamins A, C and E can play a major role in skin repair. Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), a natural antioxidant that helps maintain collagen elasticity. Green tea extract can help rejuvenate tired skin. Remember, always seek professional advice before taking supplements. 
Smoking and drinking are both hazardous to the skin. Wrinkles are usually more advanced in long-term smokers, while alcohol can make hot flushes worse.
Overall, this change of life is best negotiated with knowledge, common sense and a proactive approach. Take good care of your skin and it will hold you together beautifully!

Bernie Fahy works in Ballinrobe, Westport and Galway. She can be contacted at 086 2220125 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . For more information, visit www.bernietheskinspecialist.com.

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