Menopause is a natural phase in every woman's life, marked by hormonal changes that affect not only the body but also the skin. With the decrease in estrogen production, the skin tends to become drier, thinner and less elastic. However, with the right care, it is possible to keep your skin healthy, luminous and full of vitality. In this article, we will explore this important phase in a woman's life and the most appropriate care to take.
What is Menopause?
Menopause is confirmed when twelve consecutive months have passed without a menstrual period. It corresponds to the end of a woman's menstruation, a completely normal biological process that marks the end of fertility.
Although average life expectancy has been increasing, the age of menopause has remained constant, and can occur between 40 and 58 years of age. However, there may be cases that occur earlier or even later.
What happens to the body during menopause?
In a woman's body, there is a reduction in the activity of the ovaries, which stop releasing eggs monthly, and estrogen begins to be produced in smaller quantities. In the first phase, cycles become shorter, maintaining some regularity. Later, they become irregular, with cycles of very variable length. Finally, definitive amenorrhea (absence of normal menstruation) occurs after some time when ovarian failure occurs.
The aging of the female reproductive system before and after menopause is divided into stages:
Reproductive stage: The time from the first menstrual period to the menopause transition.
Menopausal transition: This is the phase leading up to the last menstrual period. It is characterized by changes in the menstrual pattern and lasts four to eight years.
Perimenopause: This is part of the menopause transition and refers to the years before and the first year after the last menstrual period. During this stage, estrogen and progesterone levels decrease significantly.
Postmenopause: refers to the time after the last menstrual period.
Symptoms of menopause
Although it is a normal process, the changes associated with menopause have an impact on a woman's body and life and can be a difficult period with some associated symptoms. The symptoms are mainly due to a lack of estrogen:
The most common complaints are hot flashes and sweating, affecting around 60% to 80% of women, being more intense in the first two years and ending after five years of menopause.
Psychological disorders include difficulty falling asleep and insomnia. There may be symptoms of depression, although an association between menopause and depression has not yet been defined.
Genitourinary disorders result in atrophy of the vaginal mucosa, which becomes drier and leads to irritation and pain during sexual intercourse. There is a greater tendency for urinary infections and may lead to a reduction in libido.
Causes
Menopause is a normal process and is related to age. However, there are several factors that can influence its onset. Smoking, not having had a baby, and exposure to toxic chemicals can all lead to early menopause. Genetics can also influence the entire process.
Skin care during menopause
Menopause causes changes in a woman's body and the skin is one of the areas most affected by the reduction in estrogen levels that lead to a decrease in the production of collagen, elastin and natural oils. This leads to drier, thinner skin with less elasticity.
To keep your skin healthy, you can adopt a routine with specific care that will help keep your skin young and luminous. You can see all the products available for this new phase here(LINK PARA SITE - MENOPAUSA - CRIAR)
1. Hydration
Hydration is a fundamental step in your daily skincare routine. You should choose to use creams that contain:
- Hyaluronic acid: helps keep the skin plump and hydrated.
- Ceramides: strengthen the skin barrier, preventing water loss.
- Glycerin and panthenol: ingredients that attract and retain moisture in the skin.
2. Daily sun protection
Sun protection is essential at all ages, but skin aging accelerates during menopause. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50+ daily to prevent blemishes, wrinkles and sagging caused by UV rays. Opt for moisturizing formulas with antioxidants, such as vitamin E and niacinamide.
3. Collagen stimulation
To combat the loss of firmness and elasticity, include ingredients that stimulate collagen production in your routine:
- Retinol or Bakuchiol: Help with cell renewal and smooth wrinkles.
- Peptides: Contribute to skin firmness and regeneration.
- Vitamin C: Powerful antioxidant that evens out skin tone and promotes luminosity.
4. Extra care
- Choose products that are alcohol-free and free from strong fragrances.
- Use gentle toners, such as those containing rose water or green tea.
- Eat foods rich in omega-3, such as fish, nuts, and flaxseeds.
- Increase your intake of antioxidants, found in colorful fruits and vegetables.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
Menopause self care should focus on hydration, regeneration, and protection. By choosing the right products and maintaining a consistent routine, you can minimize the effects of menopause on your skin and maintain a healthy, firm, and radiant complexion. Remember to always consult a dermatologist for personalized recommendations!
