Let’s have a little chat about something many of us will face at some point: perimenopause. It’s that phase before menopause when our bodies start to change, and trust me, it’s not just about hot flashes and mood swings. Our skin and hair often bear the brunt of these hormonal shifts, leaving us feeling a bit out of sorts. But don’t worry, we've got you covered with some friendly advice and a couple of fab products from Hark & Zander that can help you feel your best.
What's Happening to Our Skin and Hair?
During perimenopause, our oestrogen levels start to drop, and this can lead to a variety of changes:
1. Dryness and Itching: As oestrogen levels decline, our skin produces less oil, leading to dryness and sometimes, itching. You might notice your skin feeling tight or flaky, especially on your face and hands.
2. Fine Lines and Wrinkles: With less collagen being produced, our skin can lose its elasticity, making fine lines and wrinkles more noticeable. This is the time when we start to see those “laugh lines” sticking around even when we're not laughing!
3. Thinning Hair: Just like our skin, our hair can become drier and more brittle. You might find it starts to thin out, particularly around the crown and temples. Not the most welcome change, right?
4. Breakouts: Surprisingly, some of us might experience breakouts reminiscent of our teenage years. The fluctuating hormones can lead to increased sebum production, clogging our pores and causing spots.
How To Combat These Changes
Now that we know what's happening, let's talk about what we can do to keep looking and feeling fabulous.
Hydration is Key: Keeping your skin hydrated is crucial. Drink plenty of water and use a good moisturiser. Our HempTonic Face Oil is a lifesaver. It’s packed with Hempheart Oil along with other natural skin saving oils, which are rich in Omega 3 - Omega 6 fatty acids, helping to lock in moisture and keep your skin feeling soft and supple.
Boost Collagen Production: To combat those fine lines and wrinkles, look for products that help boost collagen. Ingredients like vitamin C and peptides are great for this. Our MiracleFirm Smoothing Serum is perfect as it contains natural ingredients that promote collagen production and give your skin a lovely, healthy glow:
- Red Seaweed: Rich in antioxidants, it helps protect the skin from environmental damage, which can promote collagen synthesis.
- Mamaku Black Fern: Known for its skin-regenerating properties, it can help enhance the skin’s natural collagen production.
- Hyaluronic Acid: While it doesn't directly boost collagen production, it provides intense hydration, which helps maintain the skin's elasticity and supports the function of collagen.
- Gingko Biloba Leaf: Contains antioxidants that protect the skin from free radical damage, helping to maintain collagen levels.
- Watermelon Extract: Contains vitamins and antioxidants that can help protect the skin and support collagen synthesis indirectly by maintaining overall skin health.
These ingredients, combined with their antioxidant and pollution-protecting properties, help smooth, soothe, and restore your skin, creating an environment that supports healthy collagen production.
Additionally, consider incorporating an oral collagen supplement into your routine, as it can further support your body’s collagen production from the inside out.
Gentle Exfoliation: Exfoliating can help remove dead skin cells, making your skin look fresher and more radiant. Just be sure to choose a gentle exfoliator to avoid irritation. Aim to exfoliate once or twice a week to keep your skin smooth and bright.
Hair Care Routine: For thinning hair, try to use a gentle, hydrating shampoo and conditioner. Avoid over-washing, as this can strip your hair of its natural oils. A nourishing hair mask once a week can also work wonders in keeping your locks luscious.
Manage Breakouts: If you’re dealing with breakouts, a gentle cleanser and a non-comedogenic moisturiser can help keep your skin clear without clogging pores. Don’t forget to look for products that are kind to sensitive skin, to avoid further irritation.
Healthy Lifestyle: Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of a healthy lifestyle. Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and managing stress can all help keep your skin and hair looking their best. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and flaxseeds, can be particularly beneficial.
Embrace the Change
Perimenopause is a natural part of life, and while it comes with its challenges, it’s also a time to embrace change and take extra good care of ourselves. With the right skincare and haircare routine you can navigate this phase feeling confident and beautiful.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Share your experiences, lean on your friends, and most importantly, be kind to yourself. Here’s to glowing skin and gorgeous hair, no matter what life throws our way!
Interested in reading more about stimulating hair growth? The Transformative Benefits of Scalp Oiling: A Comprehensive Guide