We have teamed up with Revive Active and Dr Anita Sturnham to provide some expert advice on the affect menopause has on your skin.
Dr. Anita Sturnham is an internationally renowned GP specialising in dermatology and anti-aging medicine. She is also a brand ambassador for Irish super supplement brand Revive Active. With more than 20 years of medical experience, Dr. Anita is known for her meticulous attention to detail as well as her ethical approach. This blog dives deep into the topic of menopausal skin and how to care for it.
How does menopause affect your skin?
We asked Dr. Anita to explain the impact menopause has on skin. Here she outlines what is happening in a women’s body and what we can do to help it during this journey.
“During menopause, your sex hormone levels decline significantly, in particular, your Oestrogen, which is needed for collagen production and to support the skin barrier function.
Your skincare strategy as you enter menopause should therefore focus on boosting collagen formation and hydration within the skin, to counteract the hormonal changes that are taking place in your body.
I recommend supporting your skin’s needs from the outside in.
Getting your skincare right is one part of the puzzle. Therefore, start by excluding stripping regimens, double cleansing, and harsh foaming cleansers and instead look for gentle cream or gel-based cleansers enriched with ingredients such as glycerin and Rosewater. Follow with a hydrating toner mist and an antioxidant serum in the morning.
What skincare products should I use for Menopausal skin?
SKINICIAN's Revitalising system contains products that are suitable for even the most sensitive of skins. The Revitalising Cleanser, Toner and Moisturiser are a great choice when it comes to soothing dehydrated, sensitive skin.
Another product that we recommend is our Calming Serum. This lightweight serum calms redness and inflammation on the skin and helps those who suffer with flushing and blushing.
Dr Anita recommends playing it safe when it comes to shopping for menopausal skincare products. Calming and soothing ingredients are a must.
"My top picks are Vitamins C, B, E, Co-Enzyme Q10 and at night and a gentle serum rich in a Retinoid, such as a Granactive Retinoid. This will aid new collagen production and boost repair without exacerbating dryness and sensitivity.
When it comes to moisturisers, adding in plant-based Peptides, barrier-supportive Ceramides, Niacinamide, and hydrating Hyaluronic acid can be a game-changer.
In terms of supporting the skin from the inside out, there are a number of things that you can do and your nutrition and supplementation routine play an important role in this. Ensuring that you are providing your skin with the building blocks it needs to build and repair collagen and connective tissue is key.
I recommend taking a daily Type 1 marine collagen supplement. Look for one with ingredients that enhance the skin's ability to build and repair, such as Hyaluronic Acid, Phytoceramides and Vitamin Co-factors. My go-to is Beauty Complex by Revive Active.
When you go through menopause you are prone to disruption of your gut microflora/live friendly bacteria. This can impair the absorption of key nutrients which can lead to issues with hormone metabolism and excretion.
I recommend taking a targeted supplement that addresses these needs with probiotics, adaptogens such as ashwagandha, digestive enzymes, vitamins, and minerals that support healthy hormone balance, including magnesium, B6, thiamine, iodine, and DHA to support brain function. My approach to treating menopause is similar to the way I treat the skin. I believe in looking at gut health, hormone balance, and skin health together for best results.”
Dr. Anita Sturnham MD, GP and Skin Health Specialist
