Contents
Menopause is the next stage in the life of every woman. It’s a completely natural thing that doesn’t have to mean the end of femininity. On the contrary, for many mature ladies it is a stage of professional fulfillment, digging out old passions and the moment to fully take care of their health and appearance.
What is menopause?
According to the definition of the World Health Organization (WHO), menopause is the period of loss of follicular activity, which is manifested mainly by the cessation of menstruation. It is a completely natural phenomenon and the next stage in a woman’s life, usually between the ages of 44 and 56. However, numerous studies have shown that the symptoms of menopause can last about 4 years.
Menopause is promised by a wide variety of symptoms. However, this does not mean that every woman goes through this period in a similar way. The most common symptoms of impaired ovarian physiological functions are:
- hot flashes – these occur both during the day and at night. About 85% of menopausal women complain about them. The so-called heat waves are most often felt around the head and neck,
- increased body temperature – it is the result of vasomotor changes resulting from dysregulation of the thermoregulation center in the brain,
- irregular periods – women may experience lengthened or shortened monthly cycles. Fertility drops significantly and ovulation stops over time. Monthly bleeding can be replaced by spotting for up to 14 days,
- insomnia,
- problems with concentration and making decisions,
- irritability and tearfulness,
- decrease in libido.
Later, the lipid metabolism may be disturbed, which increases the risk of coronary heart disease. During menopause, the skin of a woman becomes much thinner, more flaccid, and pigment changes may appear on its surface. Hair and nails become weaker and tend to break. In the area of bone tissue, cavities are often seen, which increases the risk of developing osteoporosis. That is why systematic preventive examinations and, if necessary, appropriate supplementation are so important.
It is worth approaching the menopause as something completely normal. In most cases, it is the time when children are independent for a long time and we are professionally fulfilled. What’s more, we usually have more time to develop our passions, meet friends and take care of our body and appearance. It is worth remembering that the right diet, systematic exercise and the selection of good-quality cosmetics will allow you to better prepare for the autumn of life.
How To Take Care Of Yourself During Menopause?
It is worth preparing for the menopause in advance. Doctors and nutritionists emphasize the importance of diet. Products containing natural estrogens help to alleviate the symptoms of the menopause. Their sources are primarily legumes, including lentils, broad beans and beans, flaxseeds, grapes, soybeans, pumpkin seeds and whole grains. Research results show that European phytoestrogen consumption is still too low – around 3-5 mg per day. This ranking is dominated by Asians (40-80 mg a day), who, as we know, enjoy a youthful appearance and good health for many years. It is also worth drinking green tea, which contains antioxidants that fight free radicals that cause damage at the cellular level.
During the menopause, a woman also needs vitamins, mainly E, D and B vitamins. Magnesium, potassium and calcium are equally important. The latter is essential to keep your bones strong and avoid osteoporosis.
The period of menopause is a good time to add physical activity to your daily schedule. Yoga classes, group fitness, swimming, Nordic walking, and even ordinary, long walks in the forest allow not only to strengthen the musculoskeletal system, but also have a positive effect on the state of mind. You cannot forget your hobby. Having and developing your own passions will take you away from everyday life and stress, and will also help you relax.
Menopause and skin condition
As a result of the extinction of ovarian functions, menopausal women are accompanied by a significant decrease in estrogen, which intensifies skin changes such as:
- pigmentation spots,
- loss of epidermal moisture,
- formation of wrinkles,
- thickening of the stratum corneum,
- dryness,
- hair loss,
- lowering the level of collagen and elastin.
The epidermis of seniors shows less regenerative abilities and is less resistant to external damage. That is why, during the menopause, it is important to ensure proper hydration and provide the skin with valuable nutrients. It is worth investing in cosmetics with proven effectiveness and clinically tested. Just after waking up and before going to bed, cleanse the skin of dirt, dust, sebum and makeup residue.
A good solution is to use an oil syndet, eg Oilage by Dermedic. Contrary to regular soap or face gel, it not only cleans but also regenerates the epidermis and supports its protective functions. On a properly cleansed face, it is worth applying an antioxidant serum, e.g. from the Oilage series by Dermedic, and a nourishing day cream, e.g. from the Oilage Dermedic line.
The serum has a rich formula, revitalizes the skin, strengthens its natural protective barrier, reduces wrinkles and protects against free radicals. In addition, it has 89,6% ingredients of natural origin, is hypoallergenic and does not block pores. Good-quality face cream contains the CoolPoint formula, which provides gentle cooling of the skin and prevents temperature fluctuations, while the Anti-Pollution formula effectively protects against the harmful effects of external factors. Regular use visibly improves the oval of the face and makes the skin more elastic and firm.