These effects can include sagging, deepening of wrinkles, dryness leading to a dull appearance and deepening of pores or ‘orange peel’ skin. The main reason for this is the depletion of estrogen, a hormone which production of declines sharply during menopause. This depletion leads to a loss of collagen production – collagen is basically the glue that helps with bone and joint flexibility and keeps the skin plump and elastic; about 30% of collagen is lost in the five years during the menopause, and approx. 2% per year afterwards. Luckily, there are some measures and steps we can take to minimise the effects and improve the appearance of menopause – ravaged skin!
One of the most important steps to take is to ensure to use medical – grade skincare regularly. The best product we have found for skin that is estrogen depleted is Emepelle moisturiser. This rejuvenates the skin with a new cosmeceutical ingredient using MEP technology, this addresses the collagen loss during menopause. Clinical studies back up this claim, and it also contains retinol, peptides, antioxidants, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. The hyaluronic acid is important to hydrate the skin and the retinol is very important to increase cell turnover and so combat dullness.
Other treatments are greatly important; anything that induces collagen production is key. Personally, one of the most beneficial treatments I have found is micro-needling using the Dermapen 4 and nano – fractional treatments…I have noticed a significant reduction in the dehydration lines around my mouth and eyes following these, and it is great to know that these are a long term effect rather than a quick fix. Other treatments that help with collagen production are PRP (Platelet rich plasma) and photo–rejuvenation using IPL. As well as stimulating the production of collagen, laser and light treatments can minimise or erase redness and pigmentation, which often become more apparent during this time of life. PRP is obtained by taking a sample of your own blood and using a centrifuge to extract the platelets and growth factors, which are then injected or needled into areas of concern. Some of these treatments take several weeks to show the effects but are proven in clinical studies to increase collagen, resulting in a plumper, more elastic epidermis (upper layer.)
To address the sagging and wrinkles that are often a main concern, Botulinum Toxin and Dermal Fillers are transformative. Regular use of these treatments relax and soften lines, and targeted use of fillers by an experienced injector can help to tighten ligaments in the face to improve facial contours and result in a lifted appearance. Sagging skin on the face (and other areas of the body) can also be minimised by using skin-tightening procedures, such as that provided by the Venus Viva to tighten collagen and elastin fibres.
Although menopause is faced with trepidation, it is heartening to know that an understanding of the challenges and a plan to deal with them is available to hold off collagen loss and improve the skin and facial contours, to maintain a healthy and rejuvenated appearance through menopause and beyond!
If you are interested in learning more about menopausal skin or any of the wide range of cosmetic treatments available at Clinic42 please contact us to arrange a 30 minute complimentary Nurse consult. Alternatively, call and book with one of our 4 Cosmetic Physicians, who will be happy to discuss your concerns, and the best treatment approach for you.
Clinic 42
09 638 4242
321 Manukau Road
