And the five biggest skin concerns for peri- and post-menopausal women
As we grow older, our bodies begin to demand more dedicated care from us.
We don’t move with quite the same freedom as before, so many of us turn to yoga; the heightened risk of falls or fractures nudges us toward strength training; and since keeping a stable weight becomes more challenging, we add extra walks or group exercise classes to our routines.
The same principle applies to our skin. Throughout the ageing process, our skin undergoes numerous changes—especially around menopause—and we must be prepared to adapt when the time comes.
Dermatologist and Medical Director of EUDELO, Dr Stefanie Williams, shares five common concerns that peri- and post-menopausal women frequently raise (in addition to wanting to look “fresh” or “less tired”).
Lines and wrinkles
“As we age, we develop ‘dynamic lines’ (those created by repeated movements of facial muscles such as frown lines and crow’s feet) and ‘static lines’ (which appear independent of ongoing muscle activity, like nose-to-mouth lines).”
Pigmentation
“Over time, our skin tone can become less even, and brown patches and sunspots that look freckle-like may appear. This is a clear signal of long-standing sun damage.”
Reduced skin elasticity
“The skin’s collagen and elastin diminishes as we age, which reduces elasticity, leads to crepiness, and creates fine, criss-cross lines.”
Sagging
“The combination of volume loss, diminished elasticity, and gravity results in sagging skin—noticeable particularly on the lower cheeks and jawline.”
Dryness and dehydrated skin
“Especially after menopause, with falling oestrogen levels, the skin becomes noticeably drier and thinner. It also takes longer to heal and bruises more easily.”
Introducing retinol to your daily routine
Retinol frequently comes up in discussions about healthy ageing for mature skin, but what exactly is it and how does it function?
In essence, retinol is a vitamin A derivative known for helping reduce the effects of acne and ageing, though it can be irritating to dry or sensitive skin. It is also not advised during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
According to Skingredients founder Jennifer Rock: “Retinol is considered the skincare holy grail by dermatologists, pharmacists, cosmetic chemists, facialists and clients alike. Many approach it with caution, while many others embrace it wholeheartedly.”
She has recently launched two pure retinol products that promise, among other benefits, to lessen the appearance of lines and wrinkles, boost collagen production, regulate oil production, fade dark spots and pigmentation, and strengthen the skin barrier.
If you’ve been considering adding retinol to your skincare routine, October presents a favorable window to begin. The cooler air and lower humidity typical of autumn can rob the skin of its natural moisture, undermining the skin’s protective barrier and resulting in dryness, irritation, and an uneven complexion.
To help you integrate retinol into your skincare routine smoothly, Kelly Swann, an Aesthetic Nurse and Skincare Expert from Swann Beauty, has shared this simple, step-by-step guide:
Week 1: Begin with a gentle start
Product Strength: Start with a low-strength retinol (0.25% to 0.5%).
Frequency: Apply every third night to allow your skin to acclimate.
Application: Cleanse your face, pat dry, and apply a pea-sized amount of retinol to the entire face. Finish with a hydrating moisturiser.
Week 2: Check how your skin responds
Product Strength: Continue with the same low-strength retinol.
Frequency: If your skin tolerates it well (no excessive dryness or irritation), increase the frequency to every other night.
Application: Maintain your cleansing and moisturising routine.
Week 3: Elevate strength if comfortable
Product Strength: If your skin is adjusting nicely, consider moving up to a mid-strength retinol (0.5% to 1%).
Frequency: Keep applying every other night.
Application: As before, cleanse, apply retinol, and finish with a moisturiser.
Week 4: Consistency pays off
Product Strength: Remain on the mid-strength retinol.
Frequency: If your skin is responding positively, aim to use retinol every night.
Application: Continue with your established routine, and ensure ample hydration to counter any dryness.
Ongoing Care: Observe and tailor
Product Strength: If your skin feels comfortable, you may consider stepping up to a higher strength retinol (1% or more) after four to six weeks.
Frequency: Use nightly or as tolerated.
Application: Preserve hydration and consider retinol only on alternate nights if irritation arises.
Remember, every individual’s skin is different,” emphasises Kelly. “Listen to what your skin is telling you and adjust your routine accordingly. And don’t forget to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, even when the sky is overcast, to shield your skin from UV damage.”
