Four things to counter dry, wrinkled skin stemming from aging’s collagen loss

A sharp decline in collagen is one of the reasons why skin becomes thinner, drier and more wrinkled during menopause. In fact, collagen production peaks around the age of 20 to 25. And at the onset of menopause, women experience a decline in the hormone estrogen, which also causes a sharp dip in collagen.

Progesterone levels also decrease, which reduces the production of natural lipids that keep the skin healthy and hydrated. However, by making a few adjustments to your skincare regimen, you can help reverse these effects during perimenopause and menopause.

1. Use a barrier repair moisturizer

Barrier repair moisturizers contain lipids such as cholesterol, ceramides and fatty acids that mimic the natural lipids in your skin. Because the skin naturally produces fewer of these lipids with the transition into menopause, many women notice dry, flaking skin and accentuated wrinkles. Using a barrier repair moisturizer will help to replenish those lost lipids to restore skin hydration.

Note that not all barrier repair moisturizers are created equal. In order to most closely mimic the skin’s natural lipid structure, the formulation of the moisturizer should show the Maltese cross pattern under a microscope!

2. Use a creamy or oil-based cleanser

Another important step to rehydrate dry skin is to use a creamy or lipid-filled face cleanser like Dove or Pond’s cold cream or a cleansing oil. Avoid foaming cleansers, as these products are designed to reduce excess oil in oily skin types.

3. Add a vitamin C serum

Vitamin C is a vital component in collagen synthesis, so adding a high-quality vitamin C serum to your daily regimen can help to boost collagen and fight wrinkles.

4. Add a retinoid

Retinoids are another important collagen-boosting ingredient that you can work into your regular skincare routine to reduce lines and wrinkles and even fade age spots. To minimize side effects like dryness or flaking, gradually introduce a retinoid into your skincare routine and give your skin time to adjust before increasing the frequency at which you apply this ingredient.

Bottom line

Skin often becomes dry, and wrinkles tend to show up more rapidly during menopause for many women, due to declining hormone and collagen production. You can get ahead of these common skincare concerns by making these adjustments to your skincare routine as early as possible.

Meanwhile, talk to your doctor to see if hormone replacement therapy or other treatments could be appropriate for you.

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