Perimenopausal? Don’t panic. The right routine and a few simple lifestyle changes will help you keep on loving the skin you’re in.
When you’ve successfully conquered your 30’s, at some point it might start to feel like your body is throwing you a curveball. Right when you thought you had this whole skincare thing figured out, it’s like suddenly you’re experiencing a second skin adolescence. If you're suddenly wondering why your skin feels like it's having an identity crisis, you're not alone. It’s just perimenopause, and every woman, at some point in her life, will experience it.
It can feel like your body is going haywire, but there is good news. Gone are the days when women are having hushed conversations about this experience. Thankfully, the flood gates have opened and talking about how to manage the realities of this shift is way more common than it used to be. And the more we all know, the better we can manage the changes and know what to expect when nature comes a knockin’.
WHAT IS PERIMENOPAUSE?
Perimenopause is a transformative biological phase that typically begins in your 40s, but it can happen sooner or later based on genetics and environmental factors. It is characterized by hormonal fluctuations as your estrogen levels start to naturally decline.
WHAT KIND OF CHANGES HAPPEN DURING PERIMENOPAUSE?
This loss of estrogen can drastically affect your body, your mood, and your microbiome. The first sign is often related to your period. Cycles might become irregular, heavier or lighter than normal, or you might start skipping them occasionally.
Other noticeable changes might include:
- Mood changes: irritability, depression, mood swings
- Lower libido
- Sudden hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- Bladder changes (Peeing more often)
- Insomnia
Admittedly, it doesn’t sound fun, but talking to your doctor is the first step to managing the hormonal fluctuations more comfortably. The important thing is not to stress about it and remember that it’s totally normal.
The silver lining is that there’s a lot you can do independently to help your skin not only look and feel good as you age, but actually thrive during perimenopause. So let’s talk about what’s going on from the inside out.
WHAT HAPPENS TO YOUR SKIN DURING PERIMENOPAUSE?
There are three primary changes happening through perimenopause. Here’s the skinny on what’s going on beneath the surface, and how it affects your skin:
- Decreased Collagen Production: Collagen, the protein responsible for skin's elasticity and firmness, dramatically reduces during this period. Women can lose up to 30% of their skin's collagen within the first five years of perimenopause, resulting in increased fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging.
- Reduced Natural Hydration: Declining estrogen levels diminish the skin's ability to retain moisture. This leads to dryness, increased sensitivity, and a compromised skin barrier that can feel tight, rough, and prone to irritation.
- Hormonal Acne and Uneven Skin Tone: Paradoxically, while skin becomes drier, hormonal fluctuations can also trigger adult acne and hyperpigmentation. The unpredictable hormone levels can cause breakouts and create uneven skin tone.
HOW TO MANAGE PERIMENOPAUSAL SKIN
When you wake up every morning and see that gorgeous reflection staring back at you, no matter what new changes you notice, remind yourself that you and your skin are one in the same. You have to work together. Whether it’s dryness or more pronounced wrinkles, your skin is sending you a signal. You just have to take the hint.
Here’s how to be a better friend to perimenopausal skin:
Hydration: Your Forever Best Friend
The cornerstone of perimenopausal skincare is robust hydration. Look for products with:
- Hyaluronic acid: attracts and retains moisture (it's like a big drink of water for your face)
- Ceramides: strengthen the skin barrier (your skin's protective superhero)
- Try Layers Daiily Glow Probiotic supplements
- Glycerin: for deep hydration
- Niacinamide: improves texture and reduces inflammation
Use Gentle Targeted Ingredients
Incorporate powerhouse ingredients that support skin health during this transition:
- Lactic Acid: helps improve skin’s natural moisture, helping to firm skin, fade spots, and smooth fine lines and wrinkles
- Try Layers Renewing Probiotic Serum
- Retinol: stimulates collagen production (start with lower concentrations)
- Vitamin C: brightens skin and provides antioxidant protection
- Peptides to support your skin's natural repair mechanisms
Sunscreen: Non-Negotiable
With increased skin sensitivity and potential hyperpigmentation, daily sun protection becomes critical. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen that:
- Protects against both UVA and UVB rays
- Offers a lightweight, comfortable consistency
- Includes additional skin-soothing ingredients like Hyaluronic acid and/or Niacinamide
THE BEST SKINCARE PLAN FOR PERIMENOPAUSE
The first thing to understand about perimenopausal skincare is that it isn't just about what you put on your face. It's a holistic process that involves the proper caretaking of your entire microbiome. While that may sound daunting and methodical, it’s actually far from it. You just need to do right by your body, mind, and skin.
- Keep everything hydrated:
- Drink plenty of water (2 liters/day for women) to keep your organs functioning optimally
- Use a hydrating moisturizer with ingredients like milk thistle, which helps boost collagen production
- Eat a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants
- Introduce probiotics: A 2024 study showed that probiotic strains Limosilactobacillus fermentum, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Ligilactobacillus salivarius, and Lacticaseibacillus reuteri can help mitigate the side effects of perimenopause.
- Try Layers Daily Glow Probiotic Supplements
- Manage stress through meditation, yoga, or regular exercise
- Prioritize sleep to support skin regeneration- your skin does its best repair work when you're snoozing
WHEN TO GO PRO DURING PERIMENOPAUSE
If you're experiencing persistent skin issues like severe dryness, intense breakouts, or significant changes in skin texture, then it might be time to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss your options. They can provide personalized treatments and help you address any severe skin concerns that you may not be used to dealing with pre-perimenopause.
THE ROAD AHEAD
Navigating skincare during perimenopause is a journey of adaptation and self-care. By understanding your skin's changing needs, investing in quality skincare products, and maintaining a holistic approach to health, you can embrace it with confidence.Remember, every woman's perimenopausal experience is unique. Be patient with yourself, listen to your skin, and don't hesitate to adjust your routine as needed.
