Navigating Skin and Hair Changes During Menopause : Understanding the Science and Solutions

Menopause is a significant milestone in a woman’s life, bringing about numerous physiological changes, including those affecting the skin and hair. Menopause officially arrives when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months, and in Australia the average age is 51 years.

 

By Chiza Westcarr – Dermal Therapist & Nutritionist

Perimenopause, the less-acknowledged prologue to menopause, typically begins in a woman's 40s but can start earlier for some. It's a time of hormonal fluctuations as oestrogen levels gradually decline. Symptoms are the same as those experienced at menopause, alongside menstrual periods that have now become irregular.

As oestrogen levels decline, there is no body system that is spared. The decline in oestrogen often has debilitating effects on a woman, causing dramatic changes to her skin, affecting her cognitive health, muscle mass, vaginal health, heart health, causes weight gain, increases her risk of type 2 diabetes and osteoporosis, and so much more.

This article will look at the skin and hair changes that occur in perimenopause and menopause and provide insights into how to best care for both during this life phase. As aesthetic practitioners, the more we understand about this life stage, the better we will be able to support our clients’ journey, by tailoring treatments and providing the right skin care.

THE SKIN'S LAYERS AND MENOPAUSAL CHANGES

The skin, our largest organ, consists of three distinct layers: the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue. Each layer undergoes significant changes during menopause due to the decline in oestrogen.

1. Epidermis: The Skin’s Outer Barrier

The epidermis is the skin’s outermost layer, acting as a protective barrier against environmental aggressors. During menopause the decline in oestrogen levels results in:

• Thinning Skin: Skin renewal slows and the epidermis becomes thinner because of decreased keratinocyte production.

• Dryness and Sensitivity: Ceramides or skin lipids, are found in high concentrations within the epidermis, playing a crucial role in maintaining the skin’s barrier function. A reduction in skin lipids occurs with lowered oestrogen levels, resulting in a weakened skin barrier, an increased risk of transepidermal water loss (TEWL), sensitivity and proneness to dryness

 

2. Dermis: The Structural Support

Beneath the epidermis the dermis is located, a layer rich in collagen and elastin fibres, produced by the fibroblast, providing the skin with its resilience and elasticity.

• Collagen Decline: Post-menopausal women experience a 30% decrease in collagen synthesis in the first 5 years, leading to volume loss and wrinkles.

• Reduced Elasticity: Elastin fibres, which allow the skin to stretch and snap back, also degrade, resulting in sagging and the formation of fine lines.

• Decreased Hydration: The fibroblast also produces glycosaminoglycans (GAGS), that include hyaluronic acid, which help maintain hydration levels. As levels drop, the skin loses both its plumpness and hydration.

 

3.  Subcutaneous Tissue

The deepest layer of the skin is composed mainly of fat, and experiences a decrease in volume, particularly in the face. This loss of fat leads to a hollowed-out appearance and further accentuates wrinkles.

HAIR CHANGES DURING MENOPAUSE

Just like the skin, hair also undergoes changes during menopause due to the hormonal shifts.

• Thinning Hair: Decreased oestrogen levels can lead to thinning hair as the hair growth cycle shortens. Hair may become finer, and some women may experience hair loss, particularly at the crown and temples.

• Dryness and Texture Changes: Reduced sebum production can cause the hair to become drier and more brittle, making it more prone to breakage. The texture may also change, becoming coarser or less manageable.

CARING FOR YOUR SKIN AND HAIR DURING MENOPAUSE

Skincare Tips

Cleansing: Swap out foaming cleansers for something cream or oil-based, that are gentle and non foaming so as not to strip or further dry out the skin

Barrier Support: Serums that contain ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, B5 (d-panthenol) and B3 (niacinamide) for hydration, and moisturisers rich in ceramides, will assist in combating dryness and strengthen barrier function.

Antioxidants: Incorporating antioxidants like superoxide dismutase (SOD), ferulic acid, Vitamin B3 and Vitamin C into your skincare routine will protect the skin against environmental aggressors and boost collagen production.

Peptides: Collagen boosting, skin firming peptides like heptapeptide-7, caproyl tetrapeptide-3 improve both skin structure and support.

Exfoliation: Avoid harsh exfoliation such as glycolic acid and abrasive scrubs, and opt for enzyme-based preparations, polylactic acid, or lactic acid for example.

Retinoids: Retinol or Retinal are better tolerated by peri- and menopausal skin and are not as drying or irritant as tretinoin. They improve gene transcription, regulate keratinocyte and melanocyte function, decreases transepidermal water loss, protects collagen and elastin from degradation while increasing f ibroblast function.

Sun Protection: Always use sunscreen to protect against UV damage, which can exacerbate skin ageing. SPF 50 is recommended.

Haircare Tips

Gentle Cleansing: Use sulfate free shampoos to avoid stripping natural oils from your hair and consider hydrating conditioners to add moisture.

Volume Boosters: Look for products containing biotin or keratin to strengthen hair and add volume.

Scalp Health: Maintain a healthy scalp with gentle exfoliation and treatments that promote circulation and nourish hair follicles.