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.

Dry skin in the fall or winter is a common problem. There are some steps you can take to get your skin into shape after the summer sun and water exposure have depleted precious moisture and nutrients.

Dermatologists fall and winter mantra is "moisturize, moisturize, moisturize". Here are a few helpful tips to make the most of your moisturizing experience:

• Don't over bathe
• Add bath oil
• Moisturize immediately after washing
• Carry extra hand cream with you
• Switch to a crème based skin care regimen
• Use an active ingredient if necessary
• Humidify your environment

Dry or sensitive skin Questions & Answers

I have dry skin. Can I exfoliate without drying my complexion?
All skin types, including dry skin, can benefit from exfoliation. By removing dead surface skin cells once a week your skin will be able to retain moisture more effectively.

How can people distinguish between regular dry skin and a skin disorder?
Basically, with one thing: their comfort level. If you're starting to feel uncomfortable and itchy, or you're noticing redness, you may have a skin disorder. For example, eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a type of inherited dry skin condition. It can start in childhood, and usually affects the face and the areas where your body bends.

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