Navigating Menopause and Skin Care: Expert Advice from Rebecca O’Brien
Skin changes during menopause can be challenging, but expert Rebecca O’Brien shares her top skin care tips to manage dryness, sensitivity, and acne. Learn how to adapt your skin care routine for menopause.
Menopause brings many well-known changes, but its impact on our skin often goes under the radar. I had the opportunity to chat with Rebecca O’Brien, a skin care expert from AesthetiCare/AllSkin MED, who shared some invaluable advice on how to manage menopause-related skin issues. From dealing with sensitivity to tackling acne, Rebecca offered insights that can help women maintain healthy skin during this transitional time.
The Role of Oestrogen in Skin Health
Rebecca began by explaining how oestrogen plays a crucial role in skin health: “Oestrogen stimulates our keratinocytes and fibroblasts, which are responsible for producing collagen and keeping the skin firm.” As we enter perimenopause, often as early as our late 30s, oestrogen levels begin to drop, affecting our skin’s ability to stay hydrated and produce collagen.
“When oestrogen levels decline,” Rebecca noted, “our cells stop functioning in the same way, leading to dullness and thinning skin.” To counteract these changes, Rebecca recommends introducing active ingredients like growth factors and retinoids into your skincare routine. “These ingredients can keep the skin cells motoring, even though oestrogen isn’t stimulating them anymore.”
Managing Sensitivity and Menopausal Acne
Sensitivity during menopause can become a major issue, especially with previously tolerated products. Rebecca shared her personal story: “After I had a hysterectomy, I found that my skin became extremely sensitive, so much so that I couldn’t use retinol for several years.” Instead, she switched to using growth factors, which help repair and regenerate the skin without the irritation often caused by stronger actives.
Menopause can also lead to breakouts due to hormonal fluctuations. Rebecca advised taking a multi-faceted approach: “When treating acne during menopause, it’s important to use antimicrobial and calming ingredients alongside your retinoids. Acne isn’t caused by just one thing, so we need to address it from multiple angles.”
Tackling Dryness and Loss of Radiance
Dry skin is a frequent complaint among menopausal women, and it’s directly linked to declining oestrogen levels. “When oestrogen production slows down, your skin loses its ability to retain moisture,” Rebecca explained. “This is where products containing hyaluronic acid become essential. They help draw water into the skin, keeping it plump and hydrated.”
Rebecca also highlighted the role of HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) for some women: “HRT can make a big difference to your skin by stimulating oestrogen receptors. If you’re not using HRT, though, it’s even more important to focus on high-quality skin care products that support hydration and protect the skin barrier.”
The Importance of SPF as Skin Ages
Sun protection becomes even more crucial during menopause, as thinning skin is more vulnerable to UV damage. “Our skin naturally becomes thinner as we age, making it easier for the sun to cause damage,” Rebecca said. “Using a broad-spectrum SPF daily is non-negotiable, especially one with added benefits like antioxidants or FernBlock technology, which helps protect collagen and prevent DNA damage.”
Even on overcast days or during winter, Rebecca stressed the importance of daily sun protection: “SPF isn’t just for beach holidays – it’s essential for keeping your skin strong and healthy as you age.”
My conversation with Rebecca provided eye-opening insights into the world of menopause and skin care. Menopause may bring challenges like sensitivity, dryness, and acne, but with the right approach and expert advice, it’s possible to keep your skin radiant and healthy. By adapting your routine to include hydrating, collagen-boosting ingredients, and never forgetting your SPF, you can support your skin through this natural stage of life.