BA50 TalkersAs women’s bodies change in through menopause, often times they end up with skin that they don’t necessarily recognize anymore. Due to the hormonal changes post-menopausal women may find themselves looking at deeply wrinkled, dry, and/or saggy skin. There are many simple things women can do to help their bodies turn back time and firm up so that they are comfortable in their own skin again.
Collagen-Building Cream
One simple skin solution for post-menopausal women is to apply collagen-building cream on a regular basis. These creams are able to generate collagen and thicken the skin, firming it up and creating more elasticity. Some of these creams, however, can cause hypersensitivity to the sun, so it is best to discuss this with a doctor before applying the cream.
Use Sunscreen
It is important for post-menopausal women to consider using high SPF sunscreen whenever they are exposed to the sun. When women’s hormones change, there is a decrease in melanocytes as a result of degeneration. This reduction results in a decreased production of protective melanin in the skin, lightening the skin. Lighter skin tends to be more senseitive to the sun, allowing for more damage to be done. Using sunscreen also helps reduce the likelihood of skin cancer and strengthens skin to slow down the natural aging process.Ā It is best to use sunscreen containing at least 5% of micro-sized zinc oxide.
Glycolic Acid Moisturizer
In order to combat dry skin, women can apply a glycolic acid moisturizer. When exfoliation is also implemented along with the moisturizer, the skin can become firmer, smoother, and more hydrated. These moisturizers are best used on the deep wrinkles that tend to appear because of the decrease in estrogen in the body. There is a slight chance the moisturizer can result in skin irritation, when used correctly, it can work wonders, elminiating age spots and rough patches. It is best to consult a dermatologist if any discomfort arises.
Cosmetic Surgery
Not all skin types will necessarily respond well to moisturizers and creams. Depending on the needs of women, cosmetic surgery could be a viable option for firming up the body after menopause. There are some surgeons who specialize in supporting aging women who desire tighter skin and need help eliminating the sag in their skin. For more information, consult a specialist like Dr. David Halpern atĀ DavidHalpernMD.com.
Exfoliation Products
An easy way to eliminate and prevent age spots is to not only use the appropriate sunscreen, but also to use exfoliation products. Exfoliators help slough off dead skin cells, which tend to be flaky and dull. There are also skin-lightening products that can help fade the age spots. These can be applied post-exfoliation. Exfoliators come in different forms, including scrubs, masks, soaks, creams, and enzyme peels.
Antioxidants
It is important for post-menopausal women to increase their intake of antioxidants, which help strengthen skin from the inside out. It is best to eat brightly colored fruits and vegetables that are high in antioxidants. All berries fall into this category as some of the fruits high in antioxidants, which are also healthy for the immune system. Nuts and sweet potatoes are also high in antioxidants and can help support healthier skin.
Eat Soy
One of the effects of menopause is a decrease in estrogen, which is the cause of the changes in skin appearance. There are plant-based compound called isoflavones, found in soy, that behave like estrogen. The isoflavones help thicken skin, firming it up. It has been found that roughly 50 mg of isoflavones, the equivalent of two 8-ounce glasses of soy milk, can really help menopausal and post-menopausal women.
Exercise
It is a good idea for all people to participate in some sort of exercise. This is critical for post-menopausal women because exercise will increase their heart rates and cause them to breathe a little heavier. This increased breathing will raise the oxygen level in the body, which in turn will increase blood flow through the body. When this happens, skin is hydrated and will begin to look healthier and even glow. There are also many other benefits to exercising, making it an effective strategy for overall health.
After women experience menopause, they often become very concerned about what hormone changes have done to their skin. There are, however, so many different things women can do to feel comfortable being themselves again. There are many choices they can make to fight against gravity and live inside plump, healthy skin.
Libby Metcalfe is an older woman who feels that just because she’s over 50 she has to let herself go. She wants to empower the more mature lady and encourage her to look her best.