Are you in the oily battalion?
The more I read up on perimenopause and menopause, the more I want to speak about it and urge women to pay more attention to their bodies… so what is perimenopause and why is a Yummy Beauty even talking about it?
Perimenopause is the transition phase before menopause, marked by hormonal fluctuations, irregular periods, hot flashes, mood swings, sleep disturbances, and symptoms like acne or weight gain, typically lasting 4-10 years. According to US data black women typically go through menopause at 49, so perimenopause may begin anywhere between 39 and 44.
When it comes to skin, some of us get dry while many of us get acne or an interesting blend of both. As estrogen decreases and the influence of androgens (like testosterone) increases, our skin changes. Why does this happen and what can you do to manage it?
Why Acne Happens During Perimenopause:
- Hormonal Fluctuations: As estrogen levels decline, androgens (which promote oil production) can become more dominant, leading to an increase in sebum production. Excess oil can clog pores, contributing to acne.
- Decreased Cell Turnover: Aging skin naturally experiences slower cell turnover, causing dead skin cells to accumulate and clog pores.
- Inflammation: Hormonal changes can also increase inflammation in the body, which can exacerbate skin issues like acne.
- Stress: Perimenopausal women may experience stress due to physical and emotional changes, which increases cortisol levels and can also trigger breakouts.
What Women Can Do About Perimenopausal Acne:
- Skincare Routine:
- Use gentle cleansers: Opt for sulfate-free cleansers that do not strip the skin of natural moisture but cleanse away impurities effectively.
- Incorporate retinoids: Retinoids (vitamin A derivatives) can help increase cell turnover and prevent clogged pores. They also have anti-aging benefits.
- Exfoliate regularly: Use gentle chemical exfoliants like AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids) or BHAs (beta-hydroxy acids) to remove dead skin cells and keep pores clear.
- Moisturize: Even with oily skin, a lightweight moisturizer is essential to maintain a healthy skin barrier.
- Non-comedogenic products: Use lightweight oils like macadamia and baobab and other products labeled as non-comedogenic to avoid clogging pores.
- Topical Treatments:
- Niacinamide: Helps to control oil production and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Benzoyl Peroxide: Reduces acne-causing bacteria and inflammation.
- Salicylic Acid: A BHA that helps to exfoliate inside the pores, reducing blockages and inflammation.
- Azelaic Acid: Helps with acne, hyperpigmentation, and skin texture, making it a good option for perimenopausal skin.
- Hormonal Treatments:
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Can help balance hormone levels, reducing the severity of acne.
- Oral contraceptives: Certain birth control pills can regulate hormone levels and reduce acne by decreasing androgens.
- Lifestyle Adjustments:
- Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats (like omega-3s) can help reduce inflammation. Avoiding high glycemic foods (sugary and processed foods) may also prevent breakouts.
- Stress Management: Reducing stress through activities like yoga, meditation, and regular exercise can lower cortisol levels, potentially reducing acne flare-ups.
- Hydration: Drinking enough water supports healthy skin by keeping it hydrated and aiding detoxification.
- See a Dermatologist: If over-the-counter treatments aren’t effective, a dermatologist can prescribe stronger medications, such as retinoids, antibiotics, or recommend treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy for stubborn acne.
Taking a holistic approach—balancing skincare, hormonal treatment, and lifestyle adjustments—can greatly improve acne during perimenopause.
Yummy Products……
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No soap hydrating cleanserKSh 1,900.00
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Macado CleanserKSh 1,890.00
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Facial OilKSh 2,300.00
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Radiant by DayKSh 1,880.00