Ask The Experts- February 2019

By: Red Hot Mamas

Published: February 13, 2019

Dear Red Hot Mamas,

Since menopause, I’ve had tremendous changes in my skin, as well as my hair. Is this normal?
Thank you for any information you can provide.

Heidi

Dear Heidi,

Skin aging is very common and it is influenced by exposure to sunlight, smoking, heredity and even ethnicity. African Americans and Hispanics seem to have fewer wrinkles than fair skinned Caucasians.

As we age, our skin becomes thinner, drier, and less elastic which causes wrinkles and sagging. Age spots also may appear.  if you notice, however, an age spot changing in appearance, you should let your doctor examine it to rule out skin cancer. You mentioned your hair changing as well. Graying of hair causes the hair to have a different texture. Also thinning of hair sometimes occurs as well due to changing hormone levels. Sometimes, women notice facial hair growth due to hormone changes after menopause.

Some things you should consider doing include:

  • Limiting sun exposure and always wear a sunscreen even in the winter months
  • Don’t smoke as nicotine will constrict your blood vessels
  • Wear a moisturizer on your skin
  • Increase the humidity in your home during the winter
  • Eat well-Vitamins A, B, and C are important for skin health
  • Talk to your dermatologist about wrinkle treatments (Retin-A, botulinum toxin injections, laser treatments, chemical peels and other options are available to help smooth wrinkles
  • If facial hair is a problem, waxing, laser treatments, and/or electrolysis is available
  • There are also hair loss treatments and medications which can stimulate hair growth

These are some options for you to consider. Thank you for writing to the Red Hot Mamas.