TREATMENT FOR HAIR AND SKIN CHANGES

Aging skin undergoes loss of structural proteins (collagen) and elasticity, which creates wrinkles. It also becomes less able to retain moisture, leading to increased dryness. Hormones play an important role in skin health. Diminished levels of estrogen at menopause contribute to a decline in skin collagen and thickness. Beyond hormone changes, a number of other factors can increase the visible signs of aging skin. Smoking and exposure to sunlight and other sources of ultraviolet light make the effects of aging more pronounced. Long-term UV ray exposure causes negative effects on skin appearance, including lines, wrinkles, rough texture, and brown spots, to build up over time. For this reason, use of a good sunscreen is essential. For optimal UV protection, women should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which blocks both UVA and UVB rays. It should be applied every day to exposed areas and reapplied every 2 to 3 hours during outdoor activities. Avoiding the sun during peak hours (11 am to 3 pm) and wearing a broad-brimmed hat and solar protective clothing are also advised. Avoid tanning to ensure healthier, more attractive skin—tanned skin means that skin is damaged. Other skin-healthy habits include eating a well-balanced diet, getting adequate sleep, and drinking adequate water. A moisturizer also can minimize water loss from the skin and make it appear more hydrated. Most cream-based moisturizers contain ingredients that boost the outer layer of the skin. Other components, such as hyaluronic acid and topical retinoids, have shown to provide skin benefits.

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There are many options for cosmetic procedures as well and you may wish to see a plastic surgeon to discuss these options.

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Hair loss is common after menopause and typically starts with a widening center part and loss mainly at the top and crown (upper back) of your head. It is not completely understood why women experience female pattern hair loss but a shift in the balance between estrogen and androgens (male hormones) may be one cause. Nutrition and thyroid disease or other medical conditions may also cause hair loss. You can support healthy hair by eating a healthy diet low in red meat and rich in zinc, iron and vitamin D and taking a daily multivitamin. You may need to see a dermatologist. Treatments your healthcare providers may recommend may be aimed at suppressing androgens (with minoxidil-containing scalp treatments or shampoos or with prescription drugs), or they may recommend other prescription medications or antidandruff shampoos containing zinc or ketoconazole.