For anyone who has endured hormonal fluctuations in their teen years, during a pregnancy, or even just throughout the course of a monthly menstrual cycle, the connection between hormones and your skin may seem pretty obvious.

Yet when it comes to the pivotal shifts caused by perimenopause and menopause many women often find themselves unprepared for the effects it can have on our skin. In truth, these phases play a major role in the skin’s aging processes, with perimenopause beginning as early as late 30s/40s, and transitioning into menopause officially once menstrual periods have been absent for twelve consecutive months.

 

The good news, however, is that adapting your routine to support your skin through these changes is easier than you think, and can have a hugely positive impact on your skin health.

 

Here is what we recommend:

Tip #1: Prioritize moisture and hydration

One of the biggest challenges for the skin during perimenopause and menopause is that it begins to produce less oil and retain less moisture due to declining levels of estrogen hormones. In order to help support the skin maintain its protective barrier, your best bet will be to apply more topical hydration and moisture, more often. For this we love our Mist then Moisturize Method.  Mist the face with our Dewy Moisture Mist, then immediately apply our Moisturizing Face cream to damp skin to lock in hydration.

 

Tip #2: Include the right active ingredients

Another aspect that contributes to accelerated skin aging is the breakdown of fundamental fibers such as collagen and elastin, causing fine lines and wrinkles to become more common. Although this process is perfectly natural, some components that can help promote healthy aging will be antioxidant ingredients, such as Vitamin C for encouraging collagen synthesis, and Vitamin A (otherwise known as retinol) for keeping cellular turnover on track. Two of our favourites in the active elixir category include our new AM Vitamin C Serum and PM Retinol Serum.

 

Tip #3: Don’t skimp on sun protection

As a result of the changes we’ve already mentioned, it’s also important to be aware that UV exposure is particularly hard on your skin during perimenopause and menopause. Sun damage can actually accelerate collagen breakdown and lead to other issues such as discolouration and most importantly skin cancer risk, it will be especially important to practice good sun care habits, applying SPF EVERYDAY (yes even in the winter), and re-upping your coverage during times of prolonged exposure. 

  

Tip #4: Invest in professional care if possible

Although it isn’t mandatory, and does not work within everyone’s budget, many women may find it helpful to seek additional support for their skin during perimenopause and menopause, in the form of professional care. Advanced facial treatments can be beneficial for aging skin, as they help to infuse added hydration, stimulate blood flow to the skin, and boost cellular rejuvenation. So, do your research on a licensed Esthetician in your area, and consider this as permission to schedule yourself some spa time. Remember the most important long term change you will see in your skin is what you do DAILY.