Menopausal Skin Changes – yes we can help!

Ok, we’ve identified that Peri-Menopause and Menopausal symptoms may be terribly disruptive and they represent a major concern for many of my patients. But as if hot flashes, sleep disturbance and weight gain weren’t enough, add to this the onset of skin changes. Wrinkles, sagging, dryness, textural and even colour changes (hyperpigmentation and melasma) – it’s enough to make a person pull their hair out – but wait, hair loss can occur as well, so don’t help worsen the problem!

Hormone changes are of course the primary cause and therefore addressing this through supplements and/or BioIdentical Hormone therapy can be very helpful. But that isn’t all that can be done – there are many different avenues I address with women who have dermatological (skin) and hair concerns, here are a few:

• Digestive Health:

  • as we age, we often start to produce less digestive enzymes and acids, which means we digest and absorb our nutrients less well. Nutrients are key to forming the building blocks for healthy skin and hair.

  • ensuring inflammation is minimal, your liver is working well (organ of detoxification!), and that bowel flora (probiotic levels) are balanced

• Nutrition

  • Protein: a critical building block for collagen & elastin, hair follicles

  • Healthy fats: lipids (fats) encircle cells, including skin so getting enough in your diet will help ensure cells remain plump and flexible

  • Colourful vegetables & fruit are full of vitamins, flavonoids and other phytochemicals which help to protect skin from UV light, prevent early onset of sagging & wrinkling skin

  • Minimize Simple carbohydrates: sugar is inflammatory and forms AGEs (Advanced Glycation End Products) which oxidize and promote cellular ageing

• Get a hold on your stress levels

  • Stress increases inflammation, leads to chronically increased cortisol levels (which damages collagen), and in itself lowers collagen levels – triple whammy! Not to mention, makes you frown, wrinkle your forehead, etc. thus accelerating skin wrinkling

• Hydration!

  • Yes, for this too adequate hydration is key. Our bodies are >70% water and often as we age we drink less. Bottoms up (water & herbal tea of course) and keep those skin cells plump and healthy

• A few key supplements can make a big difference

  • My favourite “basics” include Omega 3 (anti-inflammatory, healthy fat), Collagen (production diminishes as we age), and Vitamin C (antioxidant, skin protectant), Digestive Enzymes (improve nutrient absorption)

  • Many many more supplements may be helpful and is highly individualized based on key concerns – melasma (dark spots), wrinkles, sagging skin, textural changes…

Other things to consider:

• Topical functional serums, hydrators, enzymes, oils – yes, what you put on CAN make a difference. Using the right high quality products can make a big difference in how your skin looks and feels by hydrating, decreasing melasma, plumping cells, reducing appearance of lines, preventing sun damage.

  • I carry a line of products that include ingredients proven to help lighten, lift, tighten and nourish skin at any age!

• Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture: helps to increase collagen and elastin production, decrease stress, lower inflammation, improve blood flow and brighten the complexion. See my earlier blog for more information on this lovely treatment modality

  • Bonus: We also address any accompanying physical/mental concerns like hot flashes & night sweats, digestive disturbances, anxiety, insomnia, pain and many more

• Neuromodular injections (Botox) – I provide this service for those who want to prevent wrinkles or diminish the appearance of the little lines on the forehead, around the eyes, around the mouth.

  • I use a product called Nuceiva (a type of Botox) which isn’t as harsh as traditional Botox, allowing for some movement and a more natural look.

Additionally, remember that it is not just women who experience these changes. Andropause is real and the reduction in hormone levels, loss of digestive strength, increased stress levels, etc apply to individuals of all genders - as does the availability of treatment. Everyone deserves to look and feel their best at all ages.

Menopause/Andropause is tricky enough – keeping your skin and hair looking and feeling young and healthy can be a key component to helping preserve your youthful, energetic mood and confidence. If you’d like to discuss this (or anything hormone & skin related!), please don’t hesitate to contact the clinic to book appointment!

In Health and Beauty

Dr Katarine Holewa, ND RAc