Let’s talk about menopause
Every woman’s journey through perimenopause and menopause is unique. Here, Lisa shares what has worked for her, from diet and supplements to skincare and exercise.
Look for the signs
“Looking back, the signs of perimenopause were there a long time, but I only realise now what was happening to my body then,” says Lisa. Every woman is different, but look out for pain in your joints, tenderness in breasts, hot flushes and any changes in your skin. “The signs may be subtle, but listen to your body, be kind to yourself and make lifestyle and skincare changes that will help smooth the journey.”
Prepare yourself
Lisa believes that preparing your mind and body in good time will help to smooth the journey once perimenopause arrives, and suggests making changes to your diet and lifestyle from your early 40s. “I’m always advising that ‘prevention is better than cure’ to my skincare customers, and when it comes to menopause, it’s an approach that really rings true,” says Lisa. “The menopause isn’t called ‘the change’ for nothing - your body and skin will go though many significant changes, and spacing from personal experience, I truly believe that re-assessing your diet and exercise, and adapting your self-care and skincare routines can make a huge difference.”
Switch up your skincare
“As your hormone levels decrease, skin can become dry and lose its firmness, and women who have never had a blemish in their life might suddenly experience acne. Menopause skincare is all about nourishing, omega-rich formulas that won’t irritate the skin,” says Lisa. “My Omega Facial Oil is incredibly popular with women in their 40s and 50s because it plumps dry skin, restores elasticity and helps maintain a stronger barrier. It is my menopause skincare must-have.”
To help every product perform at its highest, Lisa also suggests using the collection’s best-selling Multi-Miracle Balm daily. “Multi-Miracle Balm contains pumpkin enzyme exfoliants, which very gently buff away surface debris, helping to prevent blemishes from forming whilst enabling your oils and creams to penetrate skin more effectively. Layer multiple, nourishing formulas and you’ll see a difference in the appearance and plumpness of your skin.”
From our 30s onwards, loss of elasticity and radiance is a concern for many women, but tempting as it is to reach for ‘anti-ageing’ ingredients such as retinol, Lisa advises to steer clear. “Retinoids thin the skin, which increases sensitivity and pigmentation. Instead, plump the skin with nourishing oils and creams, and from within via supplements and a nutrient-rich diet.”
Omega Facial Oil: Lisa’s menopause skincare must-have. Shop Omega Facial Oil
Sleep on it: how to handle night sweats
“Night sweats and the frustrating disruption they cause to your sleep and wellbeing can be really distressing,” says Lisa, who has experienced regular night sweats during perimenopause. “A lack of sleep leads to stress, which just amplifies everything you’re feeling . Embrace daytime napping and set in place some routines before bedtime that will aid sleep – so no scrolling on your phone in bed, which just keeps your mind active. It’s important to switch off.”
Up your supplements
“It’s virtually impossible to get the omegas you need from diet alone,” says Lisa. “Taking a high-quality omega supplement isn’t just great for the skin, it also improves joint health and lowers cortisol. When you’re stressed you produce more cortisol, which slows down the production of collagen, which is not good for skin elasticity. Omegas offer brilliant benefits for perimenopause – and beyond!”
“I take a B vitamin complex for stress and energy levels, omegas for skin and joint health, and a good Vitamin C supplement helps improve the skin too. Milk thistle is well-known for looking after the liver, and an added benefit is that it can also help support hormonal balance. I also added a Starflower oil supplement to my daily supplement routine, which made a noticeable improvement to my joint pain,” says Lisa.
Move more, gently
“The hormonal changes of menopause mean that you might notice weight gain around your tummy, hips and thighs, so now’s the time to re-think your diet and reduce sugar, carbohydrates and alcohol. Lifting light weights strengthens joints and increases muscle mass, which naturally decreases with oestrogen, while meditation and yoga will also help to reduce stress levels. Even just waking a walk in the fresh air can increase endorphins and help you feel less stressed.”
Seek help and support when you need it
“Unfortunately, many GPs still have some way to go in understanding the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause, and its knock-on effects, but be persistent and always see a doctor if you’re feeling depressed,” says Lisa. “There are some great online resources for menopause support too, such as The Menopause Charity. The menopausal journey can leave you feeling bewildered at times, but sharing your experiences with friends and family is a great help in managing how you are feeling and finding the support you need.”
Multi-Miracle Balm gently exfoliates the skin to help prevent menopausal blemishes, and restores radiance. Shop now