Perimenopause and menopause are a normal part of a woman’s life. During this time, the levels of oestrogen and progesterone significantly decline.

Menopause affects the skin as well. As we age, collagen and elastin synthesis decreases, lipids production on the skin barrier too.  When oestrogens levels diminish, there is a remarkable impact on skin. They don’t stimulate fibroblasts that contribute to collagen and elastin production. Loss of density and elasticity occurs (skin laxity). Skin becomes thinner, more sensitive, dry, reactive, more fine lines and wrinkles appear. If the skin is prone to hyperpigmentation, the issue can aggravate.

The first thing you should do is to avoid damaging your skin barrier. For this reason, it is highly recommended that you use a gentle face cleanser and wash your face with lukewarm water. Hot water dries skin out. So do harsh cleansers.

Moisturize and nourish your skin. You need to apply to your skin serums and creams rich in ceramides and moisturising factors as well as fatty acids. Ceramides are fats or lipids naturally found in the skin barrier. Their role is to maintain the moisture and ensure the skin’s health. Here are my related posts https://www.christiannak.com/?p=452 and https://www.christiannak.com/?p=428

Use a peptides serum in order to stimulate collagen production and improve skin’s firmness. This is the link to my related post https://www.christiannak.com/?p=829

You may consider the use of antioxidants such as Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid), Vitamin E (Tocopherol), Resveratrol, Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone), Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid) and Ferulic Acid. https://www.christiannak.com/?p=146 and https://www.christiannak.com/?p=101

Exfoliate regularly to eliminate dead skin cells but don’t over-exfoliate. My related post https://www.christiannak.com/?p=107

You can opt for a retinoid as long as you skin can tolerate it. Retinoids accelerate skin cell turnover. Dead cells are eliminated and replaced by new ones. They can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and ameliorate skin texture. https://www.christiannak.com/?p=1698

In case that you have dark spots, there are ingredients that could help to lighten them.

Don’t neglect the sun protection, even if it is cloudy especially if you are outdoors.

If an active ingredient dries out your skin, reduce the use or discontinue its use. The important thing is to have a healthy skin barrier. The active substances can’t work on a damaged skin.

In case that you want to have non-surgical procedures, make your research first. Evaluate and examine any information you  can get about the method you want. Ask questions to your doctor. If the answer is not clear, try another doctor. Read about other women’s experiences with this method. It might be helpful to prevent wrong decisions.

Some cosmetic brands have created serums and creams specifically for perimenopause and menopause. You could check the ingredients list and decide if they are suitable for you.

Every skincare routine must work together with a well-balanced diet. Review your eating habits. Your dietary regimen should include fruits and vegetables with antioxidants, lean protein and healthy fats. In case of health problems, talk to your doctor about your diet.

Drink plenty of water.

Reduce alcohol consumption.

Exercise or at least walk a lot and swim during the summer.

Try to sleep more.

If you fill the need to take some supplements, discuss first with a doctor. Supplements may have potential side effects or even interact with certain medication. Don’t take any supplements without the advice of a professional just because someone on social media recommended them.  

To sum up, minor changes to your skincare routine can help with your skin’s health. The basic steps are cleansing, moisturizing and nourishing your skin, gently exfoliate and use of sunscreen. Εvery additional step can be beneficial. It is up to you to decide.