The Impact of Perimenopause on Women's Skin and Confidence

Written by Elizabeth Japal, Pharmacist and Co-founder of The Derma Lab, an Aesthetics Treatment Clinic.

Perimenopause tends to bring about various physiological and hormonal changes, which can be evident on both the inside and the outside. 

Whilst perimenopausal skin changes are mainly surface level, a lot of women also find that their self-esteem and confidence are negatively impacted. Perimenopause can lead to dryness, loss of elasticity, acceleration of wrinkles, and even a resurgence of acne!

Thankfully, Elizabeth Japal from The Derma Lab is here to give us an insight into these skin changes, their psychological implications, and some suggestions regarding the aesthetic treatments that are available to help manage them.

Definition

Perimenopause is the transitional phase before menopause, characterised by hormonal fluctuations that lead to various physical and emotional symptoms. This period marks the end of a woman's reproductive years and is a natural part of ageing.

Symptoms

Perimenopause comes with a range of symptoms, many of which can affect the skin. These include:

• Hot flushes
• Night sweats
• Irregular periods
• Mood swings
• Sleep disturbances
• Skin dryness
• Increased appearance of wrinkles
• Loss of skin elasticity and firmness
• Possible resurgence of acne

Timeline

Perimenopause typically begins in a woman's 40s but can start as early as the mid-30s. The duration of perimenopause varies but usually lasts about four to ten years. During this time, the body’s production of oestrogen and progesterone decreases and becomes irregular, which directly contributes to the symptoms mentioned above.

Hormonal Changes

The hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause, particularly the decline in oestrogen levels, play a significant role in skin changes. Oestrogen is crucial for maintaining skin hydration, thickness, and elasticity. As its levels decrease, the skin undergoes several changes.

Dryness

One of the most common skin issues during perimenopause is dryness. Reduced oestrogen leads to a decrease in the skin's natural oils, making it less able to retain moisture. This can result in a dull, flaky complexion that feels rough to the touch.

Wrinkles

The decline in oestrogen also affects collagen production, a protein essential for skin strength and elasticity. As collagen production decreases, fine lines and wrinkles become more pronounced, especially around the eyes, mouth, and forehead.

Elasticity

With reduced oestrogen, the skin loses its firmness and elasticity, leading to sagging and a less youthful appearance. This loss of elasticity is most noticeable in areas such as the cheeks, jawline, and neck.

Acne

While acne is often associated with adolescence, it can reappear during perimenopause. Hormonal imbalances can lead to increased oil production, clogged pores, and inflammation, resulting in breakouts.

Mental Health

There is a well-established link between skin issues and mental health. Conditions such as dryness, wrinkles, and acne can contribute to anxiety and depression. The stress of dealing with these skin problems can exacerbate the emotional toll of perimenopause, creating a cycle that is difficult to break.

Anti-Wrinkle Treatments

Botox

Botox is a popular anti-wrinkle treatment that involves injecting a purified protein into the skin to temporarily relax facial muscles. This helps to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, giving the skin a more youthful appearance. The benefits of Botox include a quick procedure with minimal downtime and results that can last for several months.

Other Treatments

In addition to Botox, there are other anti-wrinkle treatments available. These include laser therapy, which uses focused light to stimulate collagen production, and chemical peels, which remove the outer layer of dead skin cells to reveal smoother, younger-looking skin.

Dermal Fillers

Hydration and Volume

Dermal fillers are injectable treatments that add volume and hydration to the skin. They work by filling in wrinkles and lines and restoring lost volume to areas such as the cheeks and lips. This helps to create a more youthful and plump appearance.

Common Types

Popular types of dermal fillers include hyaluronic acid fillers, which attract and retain moisture in the skin, and collagen-stimulating fillers, which encourage the body's natural production of collagen over time.

Hydration Treatments

Topical Treatments

Hydrating serums and creams are essential for managing skin dryness during perimenopause. Products containing hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides can help to lock in moisture and restore the skin's natural barrier.

In-Office Treatments

In-office treatments such as hydrafacials offer deeper hydration and rejuvenation. These treatments cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate the skin, providing immediate and noticeable results.

Combination Approaches

Combining different treatments can yield better results for perimenopausal skin. For example, using Botox and dermal fillers together can address both dynamic wrinkles and volume loss, while hydrating serums can enhance the effects of in-office hydration treatments.

Physical Improvements

Aesthetic treatments offer immediate and long-term benefits for the skin. They can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, improve skin texture and tone, and restore lost volume, resulting in a more youthful and radiant complexion.

Boost in Confidence

Improving the appearance of the skin can have a profound impact on a woman's confidence. Feeling good about one's appearance can enhance self-esteem and make women feel more comfortable and assured in social and professional settings.

Holistic Wellness

Looking and feeling better can contribute to overall well-being. When women are happy with their appearance, they are more likely to engage in positive behaviours, such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, and practising self-care.

Perimenopause is a challenging time for many women, particularly when it comes to changes in their skin, particularly those that can affect their mental health. Dryness, wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and acne, are all significant problems affecting self-esteem and confidence. Luckily, there are effective aesthetic treatments available that can help to manage these changes and improve skin health.

Women going through perimenopause might explore a range of treatment options and seek advice from dermatologists or aesthetic experts. While not all women will choose this path, those who do may find that taking charge of their skincare not only enhances their appearance but also boosts their confidence and supports their overall well-being.

For further information on perimenopause and skin health, consider the following resources:

• North American Menopause Society
• British Association of Dermatologists
• The Derma Lab

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