Skin has been defined as 'the largest organ in the body and covers the body’s entire external surface'.
But is that all there is to our skin? We think not.
We think What truly defines the skin is what lies within it. Because skin, like us humans, has feelings. It ages, feels tired, and gets itchy and irritable. As it becomes dry, loses elasticity, and starts sagging, with time, it feels the need for extra love and care, nourishment, and nurturing from within. Just like us humans.
This is especially true for menopausal skin. Because as you go through menopause, even your skin is undergoing the process of change - it often results in dryness, loss of elasticity and increased sensitivity.
The hormonal shift during menopause leads to impaired skin barrier function. It also causes skin dryness, decreased sebum production on the face and scalp. Collagen, a crucial protein for skin firmness, sees a rapid 30% reduction within the first five years of menopause, with a subsequent yearly decline of 2.1%.
A survey of 87 menopausal women revealed that 64% of them faced skin problems, especially dry skin. Almost half of them could be attributed to menopause. As it progresses, the skin becomes itchy and susceptible to sagging.
What the skin needs love and care that can make it feel beautiful from within. Hydration and moisturization can provide that love.
Let us explore some of the best natural moisturizers for menopausal skin and the hydrating and nourishing properties of Avocado and Coconut oil, and Aloe vera. Additionally, we will provide simple DIY recipes that incorporate these powerhouse ingredients. These natural moisturizers will give your skin all the love and care it needs and keep it hydrated, healthy, and happy from within during this transformative phase.
Avocado oil
Avocado oil is rich in fatty acids, protein, lecithin, antioxidants, and vitamins A, D, and E, making it an exceptional natural moisturizer for menopausal skin. Its deep penetrating properties help hydrate the skin from within, combating dryness and promoting a youthful complexion. It protects the skin from UV rays and increases collagen metabolism.
Here’s a step-by-step guide for DIY Avocado oil moisturizer:
- Fill 2/3rds of a 1-ounce bottle with Avocado oil.
- Choose another nourishing oil like tamanu or emu to fill the remaining third of the bottle.
- Add three to four droplets of preferred essential oil like lavender or rose.
- Securely twist the cap and shake the bottle well to blend the oils.
- Gently massage this mixture onto your face and neck, allowing it to get absorbed for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water.
Aloe vera
Its high water and mineral content contribute to the gel's soothing and cooling effects. It is used as skin creams as well. Aloe vera extracts exhibit miraculous reversing effects of skin aging by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin fibers.
Here is a step-by-step guide for DIY Aloe Vera moisturize:
- ½ cup of glycerin
- ½ cup of rose water
- ½ cup of aloe vera gel
- Mix all three ingredients well and apply the mixture to the face and neck. Allow it to sit for 30 minutes before rinsing with cold water.
Coconut oil
According to research, the application of virgin coconut oil results in a 24.8% improvement in skin hydration and 2.6% improvement in skin elasticity in just 28 days.
Benefits of coconut oil for the skin:
- Prevent water loss
- Contain fatty acids
- Reduces inflammation
- Improves elasticity
- Reduces itchiness
Here is a step-by-step guide for DIY Coconut oil moisturizer:
- 1 cup cold-pressed or unrefined coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon vitamin E oil
- 1-3 drops lavender essential oil
- Apply this blend liberally to the clean skin. Focus on areas prone to dryness and allow it to get absorbed for a deeply nourishing experience.
Natural moisturizers, thus, can be a game-changer in maintaining and possibly enhancing the health and happiness of menopausal skin.
As you age, incorporating these natural elixirs into your daily skincare routine should be a must. Showing your skin some much-needed love shouldn't be optional, should it?
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References:
- Zouboulis CC, et al. Skin, hair and beyond: the impact of menopause. Climacteric. 2022;25(5):434-442.
- Satheeshan KN, et al. Development of virgin coconut oil based body lotion. The Pharma Innovation Journal. 2020;9(5):96-101.
- Trak NH, Chauhan MF. Skin Care Secrets from Herbal World. Notion Press; 2022 Jul 12.
- Werman MJ, et al. The effect of various avocado oils on skin collagen metabolism. Connect Tissue Res. 1991;26(1-2):1-10.