3 Realistic Skincare Tips For Menopausal Women

Every year, approximately two million women experience menopause. A natural part of the aging process, the menopause transition typically comes with a slew of symptoms that can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life. Among the ways it does this is related to how women perceive their beauty when their bodies begin to change. 

According to a survey by the National Council on Aging, up to 40% of respondents even feared how their appearance would change. Another similar poll revealed that around 33% of menopausal women experienced feeling unattractive for more than half of every week.

That said, while it’s important that we work to dispel the notion that any age-related changes a woman undergoes immediately hurt their looks, embracing more tailored self-care can help with mental health worries. In line with this, here are some skincare tips that can help support women struggling with the bodily shifts of menopause without having to overhaul their entire wellness routines.

Don’t forget your sun protection

The skin’s integrity against outside elements can be impaired during menopause as hormones fluctuate. Lower estrogen levels usually compromise the skin’s ability to recover and protect itself. This is why many menopausal individuals notice more sun spots or hyperpigmentation, given that the skin is less able to protect against radiation damage. As such, this is a sign to be more mindful of sun protection. Evidence suggests that more than 50% of older adults don’t take their sun safety seriously enough despite it potentially causing more serious issues, like skin cancer. As such, make it a point to include hats in your usual outdoor attire and sunscreen in your daily regimen. Given that mature skin tends to feel more reactive, you may feel more comfortable using a lightweight product like La Roche Posay. A global bestseller, these sunscreens have a non-greasy dry-touch finish, making them easy to use under makeup, too.

Double down on hydration and moisture

One of the most common ways that menopause-related estrogen dips manifest is through dry skin. This is because this hormone plays a role in maintaining overall hydration and elasticity. Such symptoms are also why many menopausal women report suddenly feeling like their skin is brittle or more wrinkled. To counter this, try replacing your usual creams with those that highlight moisture-locking ingredients. The Elemis line of moisturizers is especially great for this and is even among the specially curated skin care recommendations for women over 50 on QVC. Favored by millions of spa-goers every year, this brand is committed to sustainability and helping clients feel more comfortable with aging. Among the ingredients in its moisturizers that can be particularly helpful during menopause is collagen, which can aid in maintaining the skin’s barrier, effectively locking in moisture. Over time, this can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and papery skin.

Mind what you consume

Finally, take note of your diet, too. What you eat and how it impacts the body can be even more pronounced during periods like menopause, as the hormonal changes can make a person more sensitive. In regard to the skin, what you consume can affect how the organ ages. The easiest way to eat in a more skin-friendly way is to consider your cooking oil, as this doesn’t mean you have to worry about adding in or cutting out too many ingredients. As previously discussed in another article, oils like coconut, olive, and avocado are great for the skin. As healthy saturated fats, they can reduce inflammation, help detoxify oxidative stress, and improve nutrient absorption. As a result, the skin barrier becomes stronger and less vulnerable to premature aging. Best of all, you can find these in popular retailers such as Trader Joe's, where ingredients are grown organically. Alternatively, farmer’s markets are also a great resource for these oils and may even be more affordable and eco-friendly than the usual commercially made oils.