Dry skin on hands, feet and mucous membranes at menopause

One of the signs of menopause is dry skin. Every woman faces this problem during menopause. Let's consider the causes of this pathology and its treatment.

Menopause is characterized by significant hormonal changes in the body. During this period, there is a sharp decrease in the production of estrogens by the ovaries, which entails a disruption in the production of glucosaminoglycans. This leads to a decrease in the synthesis of collagen, as one of the main components of beautiful and healthy skin.

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Epidemiology

According to medical statistics, during the first five years of menopause, you can lose up to 30% of the protein responsible for the health and elasticity of the epidermis. In postmenopause, this rate is about 2% per year. Collagen fibers form the framework of the skin. Between the fibers is hyaluronic acid, which retains water, maintaining normal moisture. Estrogen deficiency leads to the fact that collagen fibers merge, that is, tissues lose their elasticity and flexibility. Estrogen deficiency leads to a decrease in the number of blood vessels and a decrease in the production of fat by the sebaceous glands.

The face, chest and pelvic areas suffer most from estrogen and elastin deficiency. That is, changes in these areas during menopause are inevitable. To minimize the pathological process, it is necessary to consult a dermatologist, endocrinologist and cosmetologist. The help of a nutritionist is also necessary, who will create a diet that replenishes the deficiency of substances responsible for the health of the skin.

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Causes menopausal dry skin

All causes of dry skin during menopause are related to hormonal changes that provoke reduced production of estrogen and other substances. Let's look at the main factors that turn smooth, elastic skin into dry and flaky:

• Decreased estrogen levels – during menopause, the amount of hormone produced decreases, which negatively affects the condition of the epidermis. Estrogen affects the amount of fat produced, which moisturizes the skin. Its decrease leads to a decrease in moisture and the appearance of dryness.
• Collagen deficiency – a decrease in estrogen leads to a decrease in collagen. This substance is responsible for the elasticity and smoothness of tissues. When the balance of fat and collagen is disturbed, the skin quickly ages and is more susceptible to dryness and flaking.
• Bad habits – smoking and alcohol have a negative impact on the entire body, but especially on the skin. This leads to a weakening of the barrier responsible for normal moisture.
• Prolonged exposure to the sun – menopause is a clear sign that time spent under ultraviolet rays should be minimized. It is also necessary to use additional sun protection methods to prevent moisture loss.
• Hypothyroidism is a condition that occurs due to a deficiency of thyroid hormones. The pathology leads to dry skin all over the body, especially in the elbow area. The disease is accompanied by increased sleepiness, hearing loss, splitting nails, brittle and dull hair.
• Diabetes mellitus is a disease with damage to the endocrine system and disruption of all types of metabolism. With this pathology, the skin is especially dry in the area of skin folds and the face.
• Stress - when the body is in a state of stress for a long time, a number of pathologies arise from various organs and systems. Attacks of nausea, pain in the epigastric region, chills, fever, a feeling of lack of air appear. Frequent stress leads to neurological disorders and loss of a large amount of moisture, which negatively affects the condition of the body, causing it to become dry.
• Hypovitaminosis – when there is a lack of vitamin A in the body, dryness, flaking and itching appear. The same is observed in dystrophic conditions.
• Chronic intoxication is a pathological condition that occurs due to prolonged exposure of the body to toxic substances. All systems and organs are affected, including the skin.

In addition to the above reasons, dry skin during menopause may be associated with or aggravated by reasons such as:

• Dermatological diseases – most often xerosis is associated with psoriasis or psoriasis. Both diseases are chronic and non-contagious. They occur due to a disorder of the endocrine or nervous system, as well as a metabolic disorder. The skin is dry and inflamed, swelling and peeling appear.
• Atopic dermatitis is a chronic allergic disease that occurs in people with a predisposition to atopy. The disease is not contagious, but has a recurring course. The epidermis is dry and thickened, there are crusts in the places of scratching.
• Eczema is a chronic inflammatory disease with an acute course. The pathology is allergic in nature and is not contagious to others. The skin is dry, itchy, there is peeling and rashes.
• Keratosis pilaris is a hereditary disease in which the epidermis is dry, hard and rough. The limbs, back and abdomen are most susceptible to damage.
• Seborrhea - dandruff is a pathological condition of the skin. It occurs due to dysfunction of the sebaceous glands and changes in the composition of their secretion.

Loss of elasticity can be caused by frequent bathing in hot water, taking medications, seasonal factors and climate change. Dryness of the body occurs with inflammatory and allergic diseases, due to excessive use of cosmetics and alkaline soap, and with gastrointestinal disorders.

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Pathogenesis

The mechanism of development of such pathology as dry skin during menopause depends on many factors. Pathogenesis is associated with hormonal changes. Due to estrogen deficiency, the production of collagen and elastic fibers decreases. Collagen is a special protein necessary for maintaining the normal structure and elasticity of the epidermis. It ensures self-restoration of skin tone and prevents the appearance of wrinkles.

Hormonal therapy is used to replace estrogen during menopause and associated pathologies. This treatment is called HRT and has a high risk of developing breast cancer. As for the skin, about 38% of women taking hormones confirmed an improvement in the condition of the epidermis after such therapy.

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Symptoms menopausal dry skin

Pathological manifestations of hormonal changes in the body associated with menopause develop gradually. Symptoms of dry skin during menopause are progressive.

Signs of a dermatological problem:

• The skin is rough to the touch
• Itching
• Peeling
• Cracks
• The skin pattern is clearly visible
• After water procedures, a strong tightness appears
• Redness and irritation

Increased dryness can provoke the appearance of deep cracks that cause pain and bleed. Dry skin reacts to the slightest irritation and is very sensitive. Due to the loss of elasticity, peeling plates appear, deep wrinkles are formed. The skin becomes rough, there is a risk of developing erythema and hyperkeratosis. Without proper treatment of xerosis, atrophy of the skin is possible, both the epidermis and the dermis. Such serious changes are dangerous because they turn into trophic ulcers.

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First signs

Changes in the skin during menopause have a number of characteristic symptoms. The first signs of a pathological condition are most often manifested by changes in the condition of the face, chest, arms and thighs. Without proper care, loss of elasticity leads to peeling, itching, irritation and other unpleasant sensations.

Due to increased dryness, when pressing on any area, a fingerprint remains, which takes a relatively long time to disappear. Small cracks appear, pores are almost invisible, and skin scales may peel off. Unpleasant sensations intensify after taking a hot bath, as tightness appears. Such signs do not appear one by one, causing severe discomfort.

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Complications and consequences

Loss of elasticity of the skin during menopause leads to a number of problems. The consequences of this pathology are manifested by the following symptoms:

• Changes in thermoregulation due to increased sweat production.
• Due to the reduced ability of the skin to retain water, itching, peeling, and cracks appear.
• The aging process accelerates and wrinkles appear.
• The skin becomes thinner and atrophic changes occur.
• The risk of exacerbation of skin diseases increases.
• Vitamin D production decreases.
• Impairs the rate of wound healing.

Menopausal changes lead to a disruption of the protective properties of the skin, increasing the risk of infection. Cosmetic changes negatively affect self-esteem and the psyche. Because of this, depressive disorders, loss of self-confidence and quality of life impairments may develop during menopause.

Xerosis during menopause can lead to serious consequences. Complications are manifested by the following diseases:

• Phlegmon is an acute inflammation of the connective tissue of the epidermis, which occurs due to bacterial or infectious pathogens.
• Atopic dermatitis, eczema - a pathological condition with redness, inflammation and cracking of tissues.
• Folliculitis is an inflammation of the hair follicle, characterized by hyperemia and swelling. A purulent nodule penetrated by a hair may form at the site of the lesion.

The above complications are formed due to improper body care or its absence. Painful symptoms are associated with the weakening of the protective functions of the skin and age-related hormonal changes in the female body.

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Diagnostics menopausal dry skin

To establish the cause of xerosis, i.e. loss of elasticity of the epidermis, it is necessary to conduct a series of examinations. Diagnosis of dry skin during menopause is based on a physical examination and study of the medical history. Age-related climacteric changes are associated with a decrease in hormone production. If there is a suspicion of dermatological diseases during menopause, then a set of additional studies is prescribed:

• Visual inspection
• Collection of anamnesis
• Biochemical blood test

If dryness is accompanied by allergic conditions, epicutaneous and intracutaneous skin tests are performed. In case of xerosis with dermatoses, bacteriological, serological and virological tests are indicated. Histological studies may also be prescribed. If necessary, laboratory and instrumental diagnostics are performed.

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Tests

In case of pronounced dryness of the skin, a number of studies and tests are carried out aimed at establishing the cause of the pathological condition. If the disorder is associated with hormonal changes in the female body, then the following tests are prescribed to detect menopause:

• The level of FSH - follicle-stimulating hormone increases during active menopause. This indicator indicates disturbances in estrogen synthesis.
• Estradiol is the main estrogen hormone responsible for bone strength and skin condition. Its deficiency causes a number of pathological changes.
• LT level – luteinizing hormone is involved in the creation of an egg in the follicle and affects ovulation. During menopause, its values are increased.
• Progesterone - a decrease in its level indicates the onset of menopause; within the first 2-3 years after the onset of menopause, it is completely eliminated from the body.

To assess the condition of the skin, the following laboratory tests are taken:

• Taking blood from a finger reveals inflammatory processes and allergic reactions.
• Urine – determines damage to the kidneys and other organs.
• Biochemical blood test – determines various indicators that affect the body's condition. For example, sugar level, protein content and much more.

Tests for dry skin during menopause make it possible to assess the condition of the body and prescribe the correct treatment to alleviate pathological symptoms.

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Instrumental diagnostics

The most effective method for establishing the true cause of xerosis during menopause is instrumental diagnostics. Depending on the symptoms of the disorder, various research methods are used.

Particular attention is paid to the sowing of the inflamed skin area (biopsy). This method is used to determine pathogenic microorganisms that contribute to damage to the skin. It helps to choose the right treatment method. If there is a suspicion of an allergic reaction, then an analysis of serum autoantibodies is carried out to identify the allergen. A coprogram is also carried out, that is, an analysis of excrement for dysbiosis. This analysis is necessary if the condition of the tissues is associated with gastrointestinal diseases.

Differential diagnosis

Dry skin can appear with many diseases, both dermatological and with damage to internal organs. Differential diagnostics is aimed at establishing the real cause of skin damage during menopause. In addition to analyzing the level of estrogens and a number of other hormones, differentiation is carried out with such pathologies as:

• Eczema - its xerotic form causes increased dryness of the epidermis, cracks, itching, peeling. Inflammation and bleeding of some areas due to scratching are possible.
• Follicular kuratosis – small, pimple-like rashes. The body becomes rough to the touch, dryness and itching appear.
• Ichthyosis – the epidermal cells peel heavily, forming thick scales that peel off. In their place, painful wounds and cracks remain.
• Psoriasis is one of the most common diseases characterized by dry skin. Accompanied by peeling, itching, and painful sensations. In some cases, a secondary infection may occur.

Based on the results of differential diagnostics, the doctor gives recommendations for normalizing the body's condition.

Treatment menopausal dry skin

A woman's health during menopause depends not only on hormone levels, but also on external factors. Treatment of dry skin during menopause is aimed at maintaining the normal condition of the epidermis. For this, special body creams with estrogen and vitamin preparations are used. Lifestyle is of great importance, let's consider the main recommendations for maintaining the beauty of the body and face during the climacteric period:

1. Avoid direct sunlight, as ultraviolet rays damage the epidermis. Use special sunscreens and occlusive creams that prevent moisture loss.
2. Eat a diet rich in unsaturated fatty acids, such as omega-3 (salmon, sunflower oil, soy). Eating right will keep your skin healthy, prevent dryness, and provide a protective barrier.
3. A hot shower or bath is harmful to the skin. After such procedures, there is a feeling of strong tightness, peeling, itching and even cracks. During bathing, use moisturizing lotions and gels, and then apply organic oils to the body, which will prevent unpleasant sensations.
4. Hormone replacement therapy with estrogens. This treatment has a positive effect not only on the skin, but also on the entire body, as it combats climacteric symptoms. For therapy, a synthetic analogue of estradiol is used, which binds to sensitive receptors, maintains the moisture and elasticity of the epidermis.

But do not forget that hormonal changes during menopause are not the only cause of xerosis. Vitamin deficiency, fungal diseases, hypothyroidism and many other things can also cause discomfort. Proper body care, balanced nutrition and consultations with a dermatologist and cosmetologist will help maintain beauty and health.

Dry Skin Remedies

Today, there are many drugs on the pharmaceutical market that effectively combat skin problems. Medicines for dry skin during menopause are represented by special vitamins, various biological supplements, creams and lotions with estrogen and other substances necessary for the epidermis.

Let's look at the most popular drugs:

1. Aevit

A vitamin product containing vitamins A and E, which saturate the skin with useful substances. It has antioxidant and immunostimulating properties. The active components of the product participate in the physiological processes of the body, stimulate the growth of epithelial cells, accelerate tissue regeneration processes, and affect lipid and protein metabolism. Aevit improves capillary blood circulation, normalizing the permeability of vascular walls and tissue trophism.

• Indications for use: deficiency of vitamin A, E, prolonged stress overexertion, psoriasis, xerodermitis, lupus erythematosus, atherosclerotic vascular lesions, gastrectomy, diarrhea, gastrointestinal tract lesions, diet with a high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids, hyperthyroidism, menopause.
• The medicine is taken orally, 1 capsule once a day. The duration of therapy is 30-40 days, if necessary, a repeat course is carried out after 3-6 months.
• Side effects are extremely rare and manifest themselves as gastrointestinal disorders: nausea, vomiting, allergic reactions. With prolonged use of the drug, exacerbation of gallstone disease and pancreatitis is possible.
• Contraindications: individual intolerance to the components, chronic circulatory failure, thyrotoxicosis, glomerulonephritis. With special caution, vitamins are prescribed to patients with an increased risk of thromboembolism and myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries.
• When using high doses, increased drowsiness, headaches, visual impairment, increased blood pressure, and pathological changes in the cerebrospinal fluid may develop. In particularly severe cases, convulsions, heart failure, and disorders of the central nervous system and endocrine glands may occur. There is no specific antidote; symptomatic therapy is indicated for the treatment of overdose.

2. Vitasharm

A complex vitamin preparation that improves microcirculation of the epidermis, stimulates nutrition of hair follicles, synthesis of collagen, hyaluronic acid and elastin, enhances the exfoliation process, stimulates protection of skin cells from the damaging effects of the environment.

• Indications for use: skin pathologies, chronic diseases of the central nervous system, increased fragility of nails and hair, retinol hypovitaminosis. The medicine strengthens hair follicles. Take 1 tablet once a day for a month.
• Side effects: allergic rashes, nausea and vomiting, anaphylactic reactions. In case of overdose, side effects become more pronounced. The drug is contraindicated in chronic pancreatitis, cholelithiasis, intolerance to the components of the drug.

3. Revivona

A multivitamin preparation that has a beneficial effect on the skin condition, its elasticity and smoothness. The medicine is used for hypovitaminosis of various genesis, for inflammatory lesions of the gastrointestinal tract, liver diseases and to increase the body's resistance to infections.

Revivon is taken 1 capsule 1-2 times a day, after meals. Side effects are manifested in the form of allergic reactions, and urine may also turn bright yellow. The drug is contraindicated in case of intolerance to its components.

In addition to vitamin preparations, special creams that stimulate collagen production are recommended to improve the skin condition during menopause. Such cosmetics maintain the tone of the epidermis, prevent its premature aging, eliminate wrinkles and reduce the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation. There are products with natural and artificial estrogen. Preparations with natural components are used only with a doctor's prescription.

• Quench by Kate Somerville is a moisturizing facial serum with phytoestrogens that keeps your skin youthful and smooth. The product contains wheat germ, fats and vitamin A, which prevent the epidermis from drying out.
• Lineless Infinite Moisture by Dr. Brandt is a moisturizing lotion with nut extract. Stimulates the process of cell renewal, provides smoothness and silkiness of the skin. Contains soy, green tea, hawthorn fruits and other substances with phytoestrogens.
• Hydramax is a Chanel moisturizing cream for women in menopause. It consists of carob fruits, which are rich in estrogens.

In addition to the skin, mucous membranes also suffer from dryness during menopause. There are special gels, lotions and creams for intimate hygiene that prevent discomfort:

• Estriol - cream affects the acid-base balance, improves lubrication. Positively affects local immunity and prevents the development of harmful microorganisms. Promotes the production of hormones, eliminating the causes of the disorder.
• Divigel is a hormonal drug prescribed by a doctor. Contains estradiol, eliminates itching and dryness, increases lubrication, and improves local immunity.
• Vagilak is a gel prescribed to women during menopause. Eliminates dryness, itching and pain. The product contains lactic acid, which normalizes the acid-base balance and increases local immunity.
• Lactacid – helps with moderate dryness, has a mild effect and has no contraindications.

In addition to taking medications, to eliminate the problem it is necessary to adjust your diet, maintain personal hygiene and follow your doctor’s recommendations to stabilize your hormonal levels.

Folk remedies

To eliminate hormonal changes during menopause, not only classical methods recommended by a doctor are used, but also non-traditional methods of therapy. Folk treatment of dry skin during menopause is represented by the following recipes:

• Mix 250 ml of mineral water with 50 ml of milk. Rub the body with this mixture for 20 minutes. The procedure promotes collagen production and improves the condition of the skin.
• Mix ½ cup cream, 100 g butter, banana and avocado until smooth. Add 3-5 drops of rose oil to the resulting puree and beat again. The product can be used as a body lotion.
• Combine 200 ml of honey, 250 ml of milk and a teaspoon of almond oil. The mixture should be heated in a water bath and added 20-30 g to the bath during bathing or used as compresses on particularly xerotic parts of the body.
• To eliminate cracks and peeling, mix glycerin and ammonia in equal proportions. Apply the ointment to the damaged areas as needed. To treat cracks, you can use a warm mixture of calendula and sea buckthorn oil.
• To normalize the condition of the skin on the face, you can prepare a special mask. Pour 100 g of oatmeal with milk and let it steam. Add ½ teaspoon of jojoba oil, almond oil and vitamin E to the prepared oatmeal. Keep the mask for 20 minutes, wash off with warm water.

Before using traditional medicine recipes, you should consult a dermatologist, as some components can cause an allergic reaction or worsen the condition of the epidermis.

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Herbal treatment

Another option for eliminating skin problems during menopause is herbal treatment. Let's look at the most effective herbal therapy recipes:

• Prepare a decoction of chamomile and a decoction of flax seeds in the desired proportion. During water procedures, add the decoctions in equal parts to the bath. You need to stay in such water for 10-15 minutes. After bathing, the skin becomes silky and smooth, dryness and itching go away.
• A milk compress is great for effective softening. Lactic acid helps remove dead cells, speeds up regeneration processes and helps healthy tissues retain moisture. Soak a cotton napkin in cold milk or kefir and apply to irritated areas for 5-7 minutes. After the procedure, wash with warm water.
• Cut an aloe leaf, wash it thoroughly, cut it and remove the pulp. Soak a cotton pad in the pulp of the plant and wipe your skin with it. After this procedure, the body becomes soft and elastic.
• Melt a teaspoon of beeswax and a couple of tablespoons of lanolin in a water bath. Add olive oil and aloe juice to the mixture. The resulting product should be used to wipe the face and body.
• Immediately after water procedures, apply a mixture of honey and olive oil to the body (2 tablespoons of honey and 2 tablespoons of oil, heated in a water bath). After 20 minutes, the mixture should be washed off with warm water. The mask nourishes the skin, eliminates itching and peeling, and removes toxins.

When using herbal therapy recipes, it is necessary to strictly follow the instructions and not change the proportions of the recipes. This is due to the risk of developing allergic reactions.

Homeopathy

Homeopathy is used to activate the body's natural systems and relieve menopause symptoms. This alternative medicine method is based on the introduction of small doses of natural substances into the body, which leads to the gradual restoration of organs and systems. Homeopathic remedies do not have bactericidal or antitoxic properties, and do not contain hormones. They are prepared on the basis of plant components, minerals, and secretions of living organisms.

To eliminate increased dryness, burning, itching and peeling, the following preparations are recommended: Vita bardana, Vita derm crema, Vita pufa 3. Their dosage and duration of use are determined by a homeopathic doctor, individually for each patient. There are also homeopathic remedies that have a beneficial effect on the entire body during menopause:

• Feminal is a drug based on red clover extract. Its action is aimed at normalizing the level of sex hormones, that is, eliminating their deficiency.
• Remens is a homeopathic remedy based on black cohosh, Canadian sanguinaria extract, sepia, and pilocarpus. Strengthens the body, compensates for the deficiency of female hormones.
• Estrovel - contains extracts of soy, nettle leaves, black cohosh and vitamins B, E. Reduces pathological symptoms of menopause, reduces the risk of various neoplasms, compensates for calcium deficiency and has a positive effect on the immune system.
• Lady's formula "Menopause" is a medicine based on passionflower extract, sarsaparilla, dong quai, vitamins B, E, minerals. Corrects psycho-emotional disorders, compensates for estrogen deficiency, prevents vitamin deficiency and osteoporosis.

In addition to the above-described drugs, the following homeopathic remedies can be prescribed to normalize the female body during menopause: Tibestan, Femivell, Lefem, Klimaktoplan, Menopace.

Surgical treatment

Surgical intervention methods are not used for xerosis. Surgical treatment of dry skin during menopause is represented by various physiotherapeutic procedures. They effectively moisturize the epidermis, normalize its condition, eliminate itching, peeling, cracks.

• Mesotherapy – a vitamin solution is injected into the deep layers of the skin using a needle. This procedure normalizes metabolic processes, improves nutrition and protection of cells, and prevents dehydration. The vitamin solution contains magnesium, potassium, sulfur, zinc, phosphorus, selenium, and other useful substances.
• Biorevitalization is a procedure that involves the introduction of preparations with hyaluronic acid under the skin. It helps to moisturize the epidermis, normalizes the condition of elastin and collagen fibers, and restores the structure of tissues.
• Microcurrent therapy – used to normalize metabolism. The skin is affected by weak electrical impulses, which simulate blood circulation and lymphatic drainage. This helps restore damaged tissue. The effect of the procedure is similar to a healthy deep sleep, after which the skin looks rested and rejuvenated.

All procedures are prescribed and carried out by a cosmetologist, after examining the patient and collecting anamnesis about the causes of the pathological condition.

Prevention

All prevention of dry skin during menopause consists of full body care, balanced nutrition and maintaining water balance. Let's consider the main recommendations that will help maintain the beauty and health of the skin at any age and prevent any pathological changes:

• Moisturizing – after a shower and other water procedures, a feeling of tightness, itching and dryness may appear. To reduce discomfort, it is recommended to use rich creamy preparations with a moisturizing effect and vitamin composition.
• Exfoliation – regular peelings remove dead skin flakes. This helps maintain a fresh complexion and improves the absorption of beneficial substances from cosmetics. For rough areas (elbows, knees, feet), you can use scrubs, and for more delicate tissues – chemical exfoliators. The latter contain alpha hydroxy acids, glycolic and lactic acids.
• Prevention of dehydration – healthy skin largely depends on the moisture level. To maintain it, you can use protective lotions that prevent fluid loss. It is also necessary to drink at least two liters of purified water per day. This has a beneficial effect not only on the skin, but also on the general condition of the body.

In addition to the above recommendations, it is necessary to minimize the time spent in the sun. Since ultraviolet radiation has a negative effect on the condition of the epidermis. Prevention consists of a balanced diet, giving up bad habits and maintaining physical activity and psycho-emotional health.

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Forecast

Dry skin during menopause is not a diagnosis, but just a sign of hormonal changes in the body. The prognosis for this condition is favorable. Since to eliminate unpleasant sensations it is enough to properly care for the body, follow a diet, and give up bad habits. The choice of drugs to eliminate xerosis is of great importance. To maintain the normal condition of the epidermis, products with estrogens, vitamins, minerals and other substances useful for the body are recommended. Also, do not forget about salon cosmetic procedures that allow you to restore the beauty and youth of the skin at any age.

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