When did you first start noticing changes in your skin related to menopause or perimenopause?
That's a tough question to answer - like a lot of women I didn't realise I was in perimenopause until I was well and truly 'in it'.
What has been the biggest shift in your skin during this stage of life — dryness, sensitivity, breakouts, or something else?
ITCHY, ITCHY, ITCHY!!! I have always had 'sensitive skin'. I do get mild eczema (depending on the time of the year), so when I started to ITCH I thought it was just that, eczema. Turns out it is a common symptom of menopause. As far as my face - I think for me it was hydration and pigmentation.
How have these skin changes made you feel about yourself, and has it impacted your confidence?
My confidence has definitely been affected. I can't say it's just the changes in my skin that has impacted that. For me, it's a combination of ALL THE CHANGES.
Did you need to change your skincare routine as you entered menopause? What products or treatments have made the most difference?
With regular visits to Caci Dunedin, my skin therapist was able to make changes to my treatments and skincare as required. Two products that (I feel) have made all the difference are Murad Cellular Hydration Barrier Repair Oil Drops and the Skinsmiths PRO Strength Retinol 😍
Was there anything about menopause and skin that surprised you or that you wish you had known earlier?
HYDRATION - I have always been pretty good at keeping myself hydrated and that does have positive effects on your skin, however during menopause I feel like I need a bit more help when it comes to keeping my skin looking hydrated and plump.
Which professional skin treatments are your go-to during menopause (like hydrating facials, peels, or skin-strengthening treatments)?
OMG ALL OF THEM!!! You can't beat a peel though, at whatever stage in life you are.
Beyond skincare, have you noticed lifestyle factors (diet, stress, sleep, exercise) that have a big impact on your skin during this stage?
SLEEP - I am up at 3.45am each morning, at the gym, getting my 60 minute walk in before work. I know it sounds crazy but I LOVE IT! I have had to prioritise my bedtime as I was 'surviving' on 6 hours sleep a night, which is just not enough.
What advice would you give to women just starting their menopause journey about looking after their skin?
There are going to be changes, it's just what happens. Make sure your at home skincare/routine is what YOU need. Talk to your skin therapists. What works for me may not work for you. There are amazing products, you just need to make sure you are using the right ones for YOU.
And in their general life?
BE KIND TO YOURSELF!!! You will experience many changes. Changes totally out of your control. Weight gain, tiredness, brain fog, itchy skin, frozen shoulder (and that's just a few of my own personal experiences - not kidding). Make it part of your conversations - you are not alone!
How important is it to you to have open conversations about menopause, and what role do you think clinics like Caci can play in that?
As women, we need to support each other, whatever stage of life we're at. For so long no one discussed menopause, I feel like it was admitting 'you were getting old'. 50 is the new 40's ladies!! Let's embrace this next stage and do it together!
I cannot recommend regular visits to Caci enough. The treatments you receive will be the treatments your skin needs NOW. The journey that is menopause can take years (insert crying emoji) and during that time your skin will change A LOT! Make sure you are getting the treatments that will give you the best results!
What do you love most about where you are now in your skin journey, and how has embracing change empowered you?As I always say 'it is a privilege to be in this season of my life'. Yes, there will be changes but there are things we can do to make us feel good, not just on the outside but also on the inside. I've been with Caci for more than 8 years, and they have been with me! Every visit is made special - it's 30 minutes of ME TIME. Something I can do for myself that makes me feel great. I am not going anywhere!
