Skincare after 45: tips from skin specialist Lia van Pruijssen

Around the age of 45, your body undergoes various changes, and your skin is no exception. A key factor in skin ageing is the fluctuation and decline of oestrogen, the female hormone that plays a vital role in maintaining the health and appearance of your skin.

When oestrogen levels drop, several changes occur in your skin:

• Thinner skin: It becomes more sensitive and prone to damage.
• Loss of elasticity: Wrinkles and fine lines become more apparent.
• Dryness: Sebum production decreases, making it harder for your skin to retain moisture.
• Loss of volume: Fat tissue beneath the skin diminishes, which can make your face appear more hollow.
• Pigmentation spots: Hormonal fluctuations can affect pigmentation.

External factors such as UV radiation, air pollution, smoking, and stress can also accelerate the ageing process and exacerbate its effects. Combined with hormonal changes, this calls for a tailored approach to skincare.

Many women find that their go-to skincare products no longer deliver the same results. Your skin may feel different, makeup might not sit as well, or you could experience a tight sensation more frequently after cleansing.

While skin ageing is a natural process, there are steps you can take to maintain supple and radiant skin. By adapting your skincare routine and embracing healthy habits, you can make a significant difference.

1. Protect your skin from the sun
   UV radiation is the leading cause of skin ageing. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily, even on cloudy days. This helps prevent existing wrinkles from deepening and reduces the likelihood of new pigmentation spots forming. Want to learn more about sun protection during menopause? Check out our blog on sun and skincare.
2. Hydrate inside and out
   Dryness is a common concern after 45. Use hydrating products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid to help your skin retain moisture. Additionally, drink plenty of water and consume foods rich in antioxidants.
3. Choose products that suit your skin
   Your skin’s needs change during this phase. Opt for creams and serums with active ingredients like retinoids and vitamin C, which stimulate collagen production and strengthen the skin barrier. We’ll explore this further in the next section.
4. Maintain a healthy lifestyle
   Adequate sleep, regular exercise, and limiting alcohol and smoking can support your skin from within. Stress management is equally important, as stress can accelerate the ageing process.
5. Consider professional treatments
   Microneedling, chemical peels, or laser techniques can aid in skin renewal. Always consult a professional before proceeding with any treatment.
6. Avoid harsh cleansers
   As sebum production decreases after menopause, your skin loses moisture more quickly, weakening its barrier function. Harsh cleansers or scrubs can worsen this. Choose mild, hydrating cleansers and use lukewarm water to prevent dryness.

The right ingredients can make a significant difference for your skin after 45. They support the natural repair process, protect against harmful external influences, and help keep your skin supple and radiant. Here are some of the most effective ones:

1. Retinoids (vitamin A derivatives)
   Retinoids are powerful skincare ingredients. They stimulate collagen production and accelerate cell renewal, making the skin firmer and reducing fine lines and wrinkles. Always start with a mild retinol variant and gradually increase usage to minimise irritation. Use retinoids in the evening and always apply sunscreen during the day.
2. Vitamin C
   This antioxidant protects your skin from free radicals that accelerate skin ageing. Vitamin C also promotes collagen production and helps achieve an even, fresh complexion. Choose a stable form, such as L-ascorbic acid, and apply it daily under your day cream.
3. Hyaluronic acid
   Hyaluronic acid helps the skin retain moisture, giving it a plumper, more supple appearance. This ingredient is particularly beneficial for dry skin, which is often a result of hormonal changes.
4. Peptides
   Peptides are small protein chains that signal your skin to produce more collagen and elastin. While there is evidence that they can firm the skin and reduce fine lines, further research is needed to confirm their effects fully.
5. Omega-3 fatty acids
   Omega-3 fatty acids show promising effects on skin hydration and elasticity, although more research is needed to confirm these benefits. They also play a role in overall health and inflammation processes, which can indirectly benefit the skin. You can incorporate them into your diet, supplements, or certain skincare products.
6. Antioxidants like vitamin E and green tea extract
   Antioxidants protect your skin from harmful influences such as UV radiation and air pollution. They help slow down signs of skin ageing and keep your skin radiant.

Start cautiously with potent ingredients like retinol or vitamin C. Gradually build up their use and always apply sunscreen during the day to protect your skin.

Your skin is changing, but that doesn’t mean you can’t look beautiful or feel radiant. By investing in a good skincare routine with ingredients like retinoids, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and peptides, you can support your skin in a positive and effective way. Combine this with a healthy lifestyle, sun protection, and self-love, and you’ll find that your skin not only remains healthy but also glows from within.

As Lia van Pruijssen emphasises: good skincare is more than just creams—it’s about attention, knowledge, and listening to what your skin needs.

Who Is Lia?
Lia van Pruijssen is a skin expert and Dermalogica specialist with 25 years of experience. She helps women navigate menopause to achieve healthy, radiant skin. Her advice and treatments are based on scientifically proven insights and are highly effective. With the right care and attention, the skin can adapt and even rejuvenate.