ABI JACKSON

MENOPAUSE can bring many physiological changes – and our skin is a prime example. But the effects of female hormones oestrogen and progesterone fluctuating and dropping during midlife can begin years before our periods actually stop.

Perimenopause – the lead-up phase to menopause – can last from a few months to eight years, and the impact can creep up on us.

So, if you’re in your late-30s, 40s or early-50s, and you’ve noticed skin changes starting to occur, or you’re just not sure whether you should be tweaking your skincare regime at this point, read on. We asked trusted experts to answer our most pressing perimenopause questions...

ADVICE: “During perimenopause your hormone levels become unbalanced and collagen levels deplete, which can lead to an uneven skin tone and change in pigmentation. Dry skin is also common at this time,” says Julia Vearncombe, cofounder of Skin:Genius.

“Rather than trying to cover up with make-up, tackle the likely causes by using products containing collagen and essential fatty acids to plump and hydrate your skin and restore radiance. You may need to change your foundation as well: those with luminescent tones will help to lift and brighten your skin.” layering required, is still best!” says Dr Colette Haydon, dermo-pharmacist and founder of lixirskin.

“To address the specific need of menopausal skin, I recommend to simply add a booster to your routine. Essentially the skin becomes thinner, which leads to sagging and a crepey texture. Always use your booster at night, which is when the skin goes into repair mode.” “With the decline of oestrogen and progesterone, skin can become extremely dry, acneprone, as well as more irritated and have more inflammation. We start to notice changes like pore sizes, pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles,” says facialist Justine Masters.

“Our collagen depletes even further with our fluctuating hormones. We can retain less moisture and produce less oils in the epidermis and we lose volume, tone and texture. So, we might have to adjust our products to suit our skin concerns. Seeing an expert can help you understand what yours needs, and find the

USE A BOOSTER: Dr Colette Haydon

SPECIAL CARE: Look after your skin during midlife right skincare routine to help you maintain healthy skin.” “Skin flushing is very common during perimenopause, caused by increased blood flow that enlarges and dilates the blood vessels, making skin red and warm. Anxiety, stress, alcohol, coffee and spicy foods can trigger flushes, so keep a note to see if any of these affect you – and if so, try avoiding them,” says Julia.

“If you have permanent flushing on your cheeks and nose that doesn’t respond to calming skincare products, it may be something else. Rosacea is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition whereby the skin is flushed, the texture can feel bumpy and pusfilled spots may appear. The skin feels sore, sensitive and can sting. If you have these symptoms, seek advice and if diagnosed, look for specialist products to soothe, smooth and calm the skin.” “As your hormone levels change, your skin can become oiler – just as it did in your teens, clogging pores and leading to breakouts,” says Julia. “Pay special attention to your cleansing routine, both in the morning as well as at night.

“The evening cleanse will remove make-up, grime and bacteria. The morning cleanse is key because at night, we sweat and lose between 30,000-40,000 skin cells an hour – these need cleaning away in the morning.”

Julia Vearncombe