The basics of treating menopausal skin

In the author's experience, there are two comments that are often heard in the clinic environment: ‘I feel like I've aged overnight’ and ‘my skin is so sensitive that it cannot handle anything that it used to be able to’. What these patients have in common is that they have entered the menopause—a period of significant oestrogen decline that typically occurs between the ages of 45–55 years. Among other symptoms, these patients often present with hot flushes, weight gain, increased anxiety and sudden debilitating changes to their skin.

It is common knowledge that, during menopause and the preceding 3–5 years known as perimenopause, oestrogen levels decline. What many practitioners do not realise is exactly how much of an impact this decline has on the skin. To understand this, it is helpful to be aware of the three types of oestrogen: estradiol, estriol and estrone. Estradiol is the largest piece of the puzzle when it comes to understanding and treating menopausal skin. It is important for aesthetic practitioners to understand this and be able to explain it to menopausal patients to provide the best possible care.