In addition to the cessation of menstrual periods, approximately 80% of women experience other symptoms during menopause. Hot flashes, insomnia, stress, vaginal dryness, itching... One of the most common is an exacerbation of skin sensitivity. This can be explained by the significant hormonal fluctuations that menopausal women undergo, particularly the significant decrease in levels of estrogen and progesterone in their bodies. These hormones play a crucial role in regulating skin function and their decrease during menopause can lead to significant changes in the skin.
Firstly, it is important to understand that estrogens have an impact on the production of collagen and elastin by fibroblasts. These proteins are essential for maintaining the structure and elasticity of the skin. Moreover, several studies have highlighted that a decrease in collagen synthesis is accompanied by a thinning of the skin, which then becomes more fragile. The decline in estrogen levels thus leads to a decrease in the firmness and flexibility of the skin, making it more susceptible to external irritants.
Furthermore, the decline in progesterone levels leads to a weakening of the hydrolipidic film. Indeed, it is strongly suggested that progesterone upregulates the activity of the sebaceous glands, which are responsible for sebum production. Thus, a decrease in progesterone levels leads to lower amounts of sebum, which impacts the hydrolipidic film of which sebum is the main component. The skin then becomes more dry, more sensitive, and more prone to tightness.
Finally, hormonal fluctuations during menopause can also affect the sensitivity of sensory receptors in the skin, thereby increasing the perception of pain and discomfort. This heightened sensitivity can make the skin more reactive to stimuli from the outside world such as the use of certain cosmetics, temperature changes, and allergens. The immune system then tends to overreact and mobilize inflammation mediators like the pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are involved in the occurrence of redness and irritation.