It’s not just those teenage years that bring on acne.

That’s right! Peri-Menopause and Menopause can have an unwelcome impact on your skin. According to statistics, around 25% of women in their forties and 15% of women aged 50 or above experience acne.

During peri-menopause and menopause, hormones take the spotlight once again. As you enter this phase, estrogen levels decline while androgens (male hormones) remain active. Androgens have a tendency to overstimulate oil glands and clog hair follicles, resulting in acne breakouts, especially if you are prone to acne. (You sensitive thing, you.)

Here’s the catch: if you’re using HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) to boost estrogen, don’t be surprised if those pesky pimples crash your party. HRT introduces progestin, which can interfere with your skin’s balance.

Unlike teenage breakouts that were mostly confined to your T-zone, peri-menopausal and menopausal acne tends to appear uninvited on the lower cheeks and around the jawline. You may even deal with these unwanted guests for the first time in middle age. They come in different forms – blackheads, whiteheads, or stubborn cysts that refuse to leave no matter what you do.

If your skin is breaking out consistently or you keep getting those stubborn cystic breakouts, it’s time to consult an expert – your esthetician. An esthetician certified as an Acne Specialist can help control and manage the situation and recommend suitable homecare routines. Instead of immediately seeking medical prescriptions from dermatologists, you can be empowered to heal your skin without harmful big pharma.

However, if you notice any other unusual changes like excessive facial hair, a deeper voice, or other “masculine” shifts, it’s definitely time for a conversation with your doctor. They may want to check your hormone levels with a medical provider to determine the underlying cause.

Now, I know it’s tempting to go all out with aggressive exfoliation and anti-blemish products, but let’s not go overboard. Aggressive skincare products can leave you with dry, parched skin – think fragile, red, and irritated. Or, you can trigger excessive oil production – hello, more acne. What we’re aiming for here is balance! This is why an Esthetician certified as an Acne Specialist is crucial to your success.

Remember, caring for your skin during peri-menopause and menopause requires a holistic approach. Use the expertise of an esthetician to determine a routine that suits your skin type and concerns, nourish it with the right ingredients, and don’t forget to treat yourself to kind, loving words along the way.