“The Big M”, “The Pause”, “Ovarian Retirement’…Whatever you want to call it, everyone is talking about it: MENOPAUSE. And it’s about time! Let’s unpack what you need to know with a top-rated NYC dermatologist at SmarterSkin Dermatology.
While we are doing a lot of talking, what’s menopause and what’s really happening? Menopause is defined as the absence of a menstrual cycle for 365 consecutive days. Yes, it’s literally ONE DAY. The transitional period leading up to it is “perimenopause”, which can begin years before the final menstrual cycle and is characterized by hormonal fluctuations, irregular periods and various physical and emotional symptoms. And of course everything after this day is referred to as “postmenopause”.
Ok now that we have definitions out of the way, what’s really happening to cause all these symptoms? Basically ovarian function declines, and the ovaries stop releasing eggs and producing estrogen and progesterone. The drop in the levels of these hormones account for the majority of symptoms a woman experiences. As many of you already know, there are a variety of symptoms but I really want to focus on the skin changes of menopause.
It All Falls Down
I cannot tell you the number of times a woman in her mid-40s to mid-50s walks into my office and says, “All of the sudden, it feels like my face is falling!”. Ahh the joys of aging. Estrogen and progesterone play a key role in collagen and elastin production, which maintain skin firmness and elasticity. As these hormones decline, so do collagen and elastin, contributing to wrinkle formation and causing the skin to sag and appear thinner.
Estrogen also enables the skin to retain moisture and produce sebum, the skin’s natural oil, so as it declines, the skin becomes drier. These changes accentuate the appearance of wrinkles and dullness.
I’m not a Teenager Anymore but I’m Getting Acne, What Gives?
It’s so frustrating because most of us feel that we shouldn’t be battling a “teenage” skin issue, when there is so much other stuff going on. Unfortunately, some women do experience acne during peri- and post-menopause. This is because as estrogen levels decrease, the effects of androgens, such as testosterone, become relatively stronger. Androgens stimulate oil production, leading to the development of acne, especially on the lower face, along the cheeks and jawline (hormonal acne).
Hair Hair Everywhere…but not on my Head!
As we know hair loss is very common in women and often begins during the perimenopausal period. The other frustrating thing that sometimes happens is increased facial hair growth. But why? Yup, you guessed it, blame it on less estrogen. Estrogen plays a role in hair growth, hair density and the health of the scalp and hair follicles. When estrogen levels start falling, hair growth slows down and, as noted above, androgen effects become relatively stronger causing hair follicles to shrink and hair density to decrease. This hormonal imbalance can also lead to increased facial hair as well as body hair, in particular on the back and chest.
SOS-Skin on Fire
Ok so we’ve all heard about the dreaded hot flashes but some women experience unusual sensations, such as burning (e.g. “skin feels like it’s on fire”), prickly or numb skin. These sensations are often associated with hot flashes. Estrogen plays a role in regulating the body’s internal thermostat, the hypothalamus. The menopausal hormonal imbalance disrupts the hypothalamus’ ability to regulate temperature causing it to misinterpret temperature changes and perceive the body as being hot even if it’s not. This perceived overheating triggers a body response including sweating and dilation of blood vessels at the skin’s surface to release heat. The rush of blood and heat at the skin’s surface can not only cause flushing but also burning.
Obviously there are a myriad of symptoms and changes, both physical and emotional, that a woman can experience during this time, and I just touched on some of the more common skin symptoms. Thankfully, there are many ways to manage these changes. If you are concerned that you might be starting to experience this transition (or already in the throes of it), it’s best to discuss your symptoms with your doctor. And if your doctor is dismissive, find a new one because menopause is real and really important to address.
Experience The SmarterSkin Difference With a Top NYC Dermatologist
SmarterSkin Dermatology is a leading dermatology practice in New York, specializing in advanced skincare treatments that deliver real, lasting results. Our team of industry-leading dermatologists, often featured in top publications and media outlets, is dedicated to helping patients achieve healthy, glowing skin through personalized care and cutting-edge technology. From laser treatments to medical-grade skincare, we offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to your unique needs. The skin of your dreams is just a call away – (212) 225-8444.