Many menopausal women notice changes in their skin-especially increased dryness and wrinkling. These changes are believed to be due in part to the breakdown of collagen in the skin due to decreasing estrogen levels, which also decreases the blood vessel supply to the skin. Smoking and sun exposure also contribute to skin dryness and wrinkles.

Procedures for this problem

• Thermage
• Intense Pulse Light Rejuvination FotoFacial™
• Botox®

Menopause or transition Questions & Answers

Once my menopause is complete, will my skin be different than it was during the transition phase?
Through perimenopause the body still produces skin-enhancing estrogen, though in declining quantities. Once estrogen production stops entirely at menopause, thinning skin, increased facial hair, and possible acne breakouts result.

Without intervention, post-menopausal skin will continue to degenerate. Some studies show that skin loses up to 30% of its collagen in the first five years after menopause. Furthermore, as post-menopausal skin loses thickness by about a percentage point a year, its cell turnover rate drops and leaves increasing numbers of dulling dead skin cells on the surface.

What does the hormone estrogen do for the skin?
Estrogen keeps skin soft, firm, and supple by encouraging collagen production and reducing the potential for acne breakouts. Collagen and the elastic fibers that make up skin's structural support, are responsible for skin thickness and resiliency. Reduced collagen leads to skin fragility, thinness, wrinkling, and, sagging.

None of the above is not intended as medical advice. If you have a medical concern, please consult your doctor.