Cosmetic Question: A friend warned me that during menopause, my skin would develop whiteheads. It did. What can I do?
Cosmetic Answer:
Developing acne breakouts during menopause is common. It seems to come from a change in hormone ratios, which changes oil production in our sebaceous glands. The oil thickens, easily blocking tiny pores on the face. Pores are the openings of oil glands that sit at the bottom of the tiny hairs that cover our facial skin
This is what I recommend:
- Check the labels of your skin care products. Throw away anything that is too old. Make sure the products are oil free.
- Use oil-free or non-comedogenic skin care products, especially moisturizers, sunscreens and even make-up.
- You could use tretinoin cream or gel 2-3 times a week. This is a prescription topical medication that helps keep pores from getting clogged. You could use over-the -counter Retinol but it is not as effective.
- Then see your Plastic Surgeon or other physician specializing in cosmetic treatments and start a series of light, no-down-time peels. I find glycolic peels work well for most women.
Some women actually get acne after menopause. A combination of tretinoin, benzoyl peroxide and topical prescription antibiotics will control it. Your insurance will require pre-authorization for these prescriptions because according to insurance companies, no one over 30 gets acne.