Managing Dry Skin During Menopause

Dry skin is a common side affect of menopause. As we explored in Understanding How Menopause Affects Skin Health, menopause results in decreased estrogen levels, which impact skin cell function and moisture retention . This leads to a weakened skin barrier, reduces collagen, and results in a lack of oil production. As such, for skin health it is important to learn tips for managing dry skin during menopause.

Split dry skin, as photographed by Alexander Grey, shared via UnSplash.

Tips for Managing Dry Skin During Menopause

My skin health was badly impact by menopause, causing dry skin and eczema. In researching how best to care for my skin health here are the tips I have found helpful in managing dry skin during menopause:

Moisturise

Apply a moisturiser after bathing, while your skin is still damp to lock in moisture.

As it was important for me to have an 100% natural, 100% vegan, 100% organic, eco-friendly and cruelty free, cold pressed moisturiser, this is why I developed Enchanted Lotus Beauty moisturiser. This moisturiser has been effective on both my dry skin and eczema and that of friends, which is why I launched Enchanted Lotus Beauty to share this moisturiser with others.

Choose Gentle Cleansers

Opt for mild, fragrance free cleansers that don’t strip your skin of natural oils.

Avoid Hot Shower

Hot water can further dry out skin, so take warm showers instead of hot ones.

Showering, as photographed by Hannah Xu, shared via UnSplash.

Consider dietary changes

Increase your intake of foods rich in omega -3 fatty acids, which can help improve skin hydration. To learn more, read ‘Nourishing Your Skin: Foods That Help with Dry Skin‘.

A delicious salmon dinner, as photographed by Caroline Attwood, and shared via UnSplash.

Hydrate

Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep skin hydrated from within.

Hydrating, as photographed by Sandra Seitamaa, shared via UnSplash.

Protect Your Skin from the Sun

Wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin from sun damage, which will worsen dryness and other age related skin changes. If you’re spend ample time in the sun with out sun protection, you’ll likely see the effects sooner of age spots, areas of darker skin, appearing on your face, hands, neck, arms and chest.