Peri-menopause and my skin.
After some changes in my menstrual cycle and ongoing low iron levels, I sought help from my gynecologist.
We concluded that these along with dry skin, sore joints, and the odd hot face revealed the early signs for me of the onset of peri-menopause. I am a little sad about this change, but I am embracing the opportunity to learn more about my body and how I can best support myself in the coming years.
Some common signs and symptoms of peri-menopause can be insomnia, hot flushes, migraines, mood swings, low libido, heavy periods, changes in the skin with increased sensitivity, redness, or just looking tired. It can feel quite overwhelming, so I found it very helpful to reach out for advice.
So let’s get practical.
Here are the things I am doing daily to feel better.
This winter I certainly noticed I need to give my skin more moisture to alleviate dryness, not just on my face but my body too. Topically the addition of Dermaviduals High Classic Plus, Lotion N, Body lotion, and Tenfione bath oil have all made a huge difference.
Keeping up the Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) in my diet is always a focus and adding extra when the signs of tight skin and dry cuticles are present.
Diet and Boosting with Quality Supplements
I love using my diet as a way to aid my body. This has always been something that interests me. I draw on the recommendations and advice from professionals who I have in my life already (find a great dietician, nutritionist, or naturopath to get what you need) and I love to learn new ways to do this with food. See the resources below.
All year around I eat nuts, seeds, olive oil fish oil supplements however this time of year I double the usual amount. I aim for 2000mg of fish oil daily when my skin feels it needs some extra help.
If you are not a foodie (as I am) supplements are an easy way to increase the essential nutrients we need without thinking too hard. I love to make both conscious nutritional choices and quality supplement choices.
A recent addition to my daily add-ons has been Collagen Peptides with Vitamin C. This particular supplement not only supports healthy gastrointestinal membranes (equals a happier gut and reduces inflammation), but it also helps connective tissue production in the body. From skin to joint health, from hydration to healing. This will be a permanent daily fixture.
Whole Body Care
Along with the adjustments to my facial skincare regime, the body needs attention too. Dry brushing 2-3 times per week, showers that are not too long and not too hot, and diligent application of body oils or creams make all the difference.
Treatment-wise, I have been having regular sessions with Max+ LED to reduce redness and overreactive skin. The focus of these sessions is to Please Calm Down!!
I have begun a course of micro-needling to improve the health and function of my skin and promote the production of collagen and elastin.
Lifestyle Tweaks
Plenty of sleep with early nights, particularly on weekends when one might be tempted to have a late night.
Exercise, with an emphasis on strength and mobility; breathing classes to downregulate; and as many Infrared saunas as I can fit in.
Striving to balance the work, rest, and play in my life is ongoing! To make sure I have ample joy in my life, I choose spending time with my loved ones, beach walks with my dogs, cold water swims, and socialising with friends.
Resources
In addition to the things I already know will aid the changes I am experiencing, I have ongoing expert advice from my gynecologist. This is a must and helps me to know what is normal, rather than self-diagnosing and scaring myself with valueless information.
Some of my current favourite reads.
Vera Womens Wellness is the ultimate in allied health for women of any age. Find out more here.
Dr. Mark Hyman offers so much practical insight into functional medicine. Find out more here.
Reading from the experts is also helpful for me; I am currently reading “Hormone Repair Manual” by Lara Briden, and I constantly refer to Dr. Libby Weaver’s books for tips on self-care and nutrition.
The time frame of this life-changing period for my body and mind is unknown.
However, I am hopeful it will not be too overwhelming. There is lots of support out there, we just have to be open to accepting it.
Janet xo