“Perimenopause is the transitional time that ends in menopause - the day the menstrual cycle has ceased for 12 consecutive months. During the perimenopause, the ovaries begin to produce less oestrogen in preparation to stop releasing eggs entirely,” shares Aesthetic Nurse and Etre Vous Expert, Anna Baker. Oestrogen isn’t the only hormone to see a decline, progesterone can significantly fluctuate too, but it seems that it is the most troublesome of hormone deficiencies.
“Oestrogen insufficiency decreases the skin’s ability to defend against oxidative stress, leading to a decrease in collagen and elastin – cue thinning, sagging and wrinkling,” shares Baker. It is also responsible for regulating melanin synthesis, so as levels decline melanin production can increase revealing dark ‘age spots’ in areas where the skin has repeatedly been exposed to UV.
“Not only that oestrogen is needed to maintain a strong skin barrier and produce oil,” adds Baker. So, without pre perimenopause levels of the stuff - dehydration and dryness are guaranteed.
Thankfully there are a host of treatments that can help counteract the impact a lack of oestrogen can have on the skin. Read on to discover some of EV Experts favourites…
Smoothing
“Oestrogen affects the production of natural oils in the skin, leading to dryness or tightness during this period of decline. But this hormonal shift can affect the overall balance of hormones, and because androgens levels decrease more slowly when compared to oestrogen, there can be an increase in the production of sebum, that can contribute to acne. Oestrogen also helps regulate melanin production, so pigmentation can often be a problem during this time of life. That’s why I’m a fan of chemical peels as they are a lovely way to address both acne and pigmentation. A light glycolic acid peel every six weeks will help keep pores clear, and increase cell turnover to keep skin clear, even and smooth.”Dr Emmaline Ashley
Plumping
“As oestrogen helps in the stimulation of collagen production, without enough of the stuff skin becomes thin, crepey and sags. A great way to combat this is with an injectable skin booster like Profhilo. Not only is it deeply hydrating, it also has a bio-remodelling effect thanks to its ability to stimulate collagen and elastin production – making it perfect for dry and crepey skin. Ideally get your first two treatments spaced one month apart, and then if you find it is beneficial for your skin - you can have Profhilo every three to six months.”Dr Emmaline Ashley
Tightening
“Skin naturally loses collagen through the ageing process, but when this is accelerated by menopausal oestrogen decline - the use of skin tightening treatments can be extremely effective. When combining radiofrequency microneedling (RFMN) and ablative CO2 laser resurfacing in a course of three or four treatments, skin get a youth-boost. RFMN boosts collagen production, while CO2 laser does the same while simultaneously resurfacing the top layer of skin to smooth superficial wrinkles.”Dr Anna Hemming
Calming
“Researchers have found links between lower oestrogen levels and inflammation, making inflammaging aka redness, enlarged pores, volume loss, thinner skin, darker under eye circles, and acne more of an issue during perimenopause and beyond. Wavelengths of light have impressive skin boosting capabilities - as specific doses target receptors in our skin cells. When these receptors are stimulated cellular activity is given a boost and specific functions are activated. Together red and infrared LED light can help quell inflammation and calm the skin. I recommend six to eight 20-minute sessions of Dermalux LED treatments to be taken twice a week, to notice a difference.”Anna Baker