It is correct, that a reduction in oestrogen levels is a well-known aspect of menopause, which can lead to various physical and hormonal changes in a woman’s body.
Menopause and the skin: The skin changes during menopause, such as wrinkles, dehydration, poor wound healing and impaired barrier function are primarily attributed to the decrease in oestrogen levels. Oestrogen plays a significant role in maintaining skin health by promoting collagen production and moisture retention. With lower oestrogen levels, collagen production may decline, leading to reduced skin elasticity and the formation of wrinkles. Additionally, the decrease in oestrogen can affect the skin‘s ability to retain moisture, resulting in dryness, dehydration, impaired wound healing and a weakened barrier function. These changes are part of the natural aging process that can be managed with proper skincare and lifestyle choices.
The loss of oestrogen is significant because oestrogen plays a crucial role in various physiological functions in a woman’s body. In 2015, NICE produced new guidelines on managing menopause related symptoms recognising of the lack of understanding and knowledge surrounding menopause in general clinical practice. Skin changes are usually overlooked when discussing the impact of oestrogen loss and the association with accelerated skin ageing.
Oestrogen Changes throughout Menopause: Menopause and the skin
Oestrogen plays a role in collagen production, which helps maintain skin elasticity and thickness. When oestrogen levels decline, collagen production decreases leading to a loss of skin firmness and the development of wrinkles. Additionally, oestrogen helps with skin hydration and moisture retention, so its reduction can result in dryer, less supple skin. These factors contribute to the appearance of skin aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles and sagging.
Numerous studies have demonstrated that oestrogen supplementation can effectively increase skin collagen content and skin thickness in menopausal women. Oestrogen replacement can help counteract some of the skin changes associated with the menopause, such as the loss of collagen and resulting in thinning of the skin. This can lead to improved skin elasticity and reduction in the appearance of wrinkles. There is an important observation documented that smoking can have detrimental impact on skin health, leading to premature aging, including skin wrinkling. In the context of oestrogen affecting the skin, heavy smoking can counteract some of the potential benefits of oestrogen replacement therapy.
Oestrogen can affect skin barrier function leading to dryness and sensitivity. Oestrogen plays a role in maintaining the skins natural protective barrier which keeps moisture in and irritants out. When oestrogen levels decrease this barrier can become compromised, resulting in increased water loss and a reduced ability to retain moisture. As a result, women experiencing oestrogen loss may notice a heightened sense of skin dryness, flakiness and sensitivity. It is important to address these concerns with well researched skincare routines that focus on hydration and talking with a healthcare provider for personalised advice on managing skin changes during this life stage.
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