Aging is a natural process we all go through. Some of us may have relatively good skin and appear to be aging gracefully, only to notice sudden changes in our skin, like increased dryness, loss of tone, breakouts, and other conditions, in a brief span of time. So, what’s happening inside our bodies to cause these changes? If you're in your 40s, it’s likely the early stages of menopause, or perimenopause. Currently, about 37.5 million women, with a median age of 52, reach menopause yearly. The most common age for reaching menopause is 45 to 55 years, though it can range from 40 to 58 years.*
Menopause triggers significant changes in the skin and can increase the aging process more rapidly than anything you’ve experienced before. The skin undergoes some of the most noticeable transformations during this time. Let’s explore the changes that can occur during menopause and the products that can help you manage them.
Hormones and their effects on the skin
- Testosterone is responsible for sebum production in the skin. The increase of sebum that begins in our teenage years can lead to acne breakouts.
- Estrogen plays a key role in maintaining the skin’s structural integrity, as it directly affects collagen and hyaluronic acid, making the skin appear plump and wrinkle-free.
- Progesterone regulates estrogen and has an anti-stress effect by keeping cortisol in check. It is partially responsible for sebum production, as well. When our hormones are balanced, progesterone levels are naturally higher than estrogen. However, as we age, these levels become imbalanced.
The differences between perimenopause and menopause
- Perimenopause
Perimenopause can begin in the 30s with no dramatic physiological changes, but it typically becomes more noticeable for most women in their 40s.
The first signs of perimenopause appear as irregular menstrual cycles and, for some, hot flashes. The skin may become oilier or drier, and develop sensitivity, age spots, and increased pigmentation as testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone levels fluctuate. While the effects of perimenopause on the skin vary for each woman, it’s essential to adjust your skincare routine to meet your skin’s changing needs.
- Menopause
Menopause begins when menstrual cycles have stopped for at least 12 consecutive months. Estrogen levels drop significantly, and skin changes become more pronounced. In the first five years of menopause, collagen production can decrease by up to 30%, leading to more visible fine lines, wrinkles, and increased skin laxity, especially around the jawline, cheeks, and neck. By the age of 60, collagen production can be reduced by up to 50%. Pigmentation spots become more noticeable, and breakouts and increased facial hair growth are possible. This is often referred to as being 'testosterone dominant' due to the decline in estrogen, which explains the rise in acne and facial hair growth.