In addition to hot flushes and depression, the menopause can cause other unpleasant symptoms. These include extremely dry facial skin. The skin dryness is caused by the reduced oestrogen in the body. During the menopause, the skin can lose moisture more quickly and develop dry, rough patches.

 

To combat dryness, the facial skin needs special care to keep it supple.

 

To help moisturise the skin from the outside, a humidifier should be placed in the bedroom so that dry heating air does not remove moisture from the skin. The face should be washed gently with warm, not too hot water. Only use a mild facial cleanser that is specially formulated for dry and sensitive skin. Remove dead skin cells once a week with a gentle facial scrub. This removes the rough skin layer and allows moisture to penetrate deeper into the pores.

Always apply moisturising cream to the skin directly after washing, when the skin is still damp from the water. This ensures that the moisturiser is better retained in the skin. Creams with vitamin C, green tea, shea butter or hyaluronic acid are good for facial care during the menopause.

Protect the skin outdoors with sun cream from UV radiation, which dries out and wrinkles the skin.

 

In addition to facial care from the outside, you should also moisturise your skin from the inside. Drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water a day to keep the skin hydrated. Increase your fluid intake during physical activity and in summer. Essential fatty acids taken in with food also contribute to the hydration of skin cells. Walnuts, almonds and sardines are recommended.