Eczema

• Eczema can appear for the first time, or existing symptoms may return and are often more severe than before. Women over 50 are particularly affected by this.
• Declining hormone levels cause the skin barrier to lose moisture more quickly, offering less protection against external irritants.
• Genetics, sensitive skin, allergies, and external factors (such as perfume or cold air) increase the likelihood of eczema. A combination of these factors often makes eczema more persistent.
• There are various ways to reduce symptoms, such as proper skincare and a healthy diet. Supplements may also help. Hormone therapy is an option for severe menopausal symptoms.

During menopause, the sex hormones oestrogen and progesterone fluctuate and decline. These hormones are essential for your skin. Oestrogen, for instance, aids in the production of collagen, elastin, and sebum. These substances ensure firm, elastic, and well-hydrated skin. When hormone levels change, your skin becomes thinner, drier, and more sensitive. The skin barrier loses moisture more quickly and provides less protection against external influences. Additionally, your immune system changes, making inflammatory reactions like eczema more frequent or severe.

Everyone experiences dry or irritated skin from time to time. However, during menopause, your skin may react differently. Some women develop eczema for the first time, while others notice that old symptoms return and are often more severe than before. Research shows that one in four women over 50 experiences eczema symptoms, often around the age of 52. It usually appears on the face, hands, or chest. Hot flushes, poor sleep, or other menopausal symptoms can worsen eczema. Eczema often has a psychological impact as well. The itching, visible patches, and insecurity about your skin's appearance can affect how you feel.

Hormones are not the only factor influencing eczema. Genetics, sensitive skin, or allergies (such as hay fever or asthma) often play a role. Your skin may also react to external factors, such as cold air, perfume, wool, or cleaning products.

What makes eczema challenging is that triggers often overlap. Your skin is more sensitive than it used to be. Things that were not an issue before (like sweat, a new cream, or poor sleep) can now cause a reaction. The combination of factors makes eczema during menopause more persistent and unpredictable.

There are different types of eczema:

• Atopic eczema is the most common. Your skin is naturally vulnerable and becomes inflamed easily.
• Contact eczema occurs due to contact with irritating substances, such as soap or nickel.
• Dyshidrotic eczema causes itchy blisters on your hands and feet. It often flares up due to stress or heat.
• Seborrhoeic eczema results in greasy, yellowish flakes, for example, on your scalp, around your nose, or on your chest. This can worsen due to stress or dry air, especially in winter.
• Nummular eczema is characterised by round, itchy patches on your skin. This type can also suddenly appear during menopause.

There are various ways to effectively address eczema. You don’t have to live with it. You can support your body naturally through healthy eating, sufficient exercise, and rest. Additionally, supplements and hormone therapy (HRT) may help.

When your hormonal balance changes during menopause, it can affect your energy levels, sleep, digestion, and metabolism. Healthy eating, regular exercise, and rest can help prevent or alleviate symptoms. Small adjustments can already make a difference in how you feel.

When using medications or supplements, a balanced lifestyle supports your body in absorbing nutrients and processing medications, making supplements and treatments more effective. Experts recommend the following for eczema:

• Use gentle skincare products. Choose pH-neutral products without perfume or alcohol. Avoid hot or frequent showers. Apply a rich cream or oil immediately after drying off.
• Drink enough water. This helps keep your skin hydrated.
• Eat healthily to nourish your skin. Consume plenty of vegetables. Opt for omega-3 from fatty fish, walnuts, or flaxseed. In autumn and winter, a vitamin D supplement can help, as your body produces less vitamin D due to limited sunlight. Also, eat foods rich in zinc, vitamin A, B vitamins, and antioxidants, such as colourful vegetables, fruits, nuts, and legumes.
• Reduce stress. Practice relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation. Certain herbs, such as ashwagandha, may also help some people manage stress better.
• Many people don’t get enough omega-3 and vitamin D. These nutrients are beneficial for your immune system and skin. Some women also benefit from borage oil or other supplements.
• Hormone therapy can sometimes help. Discuss this with a specialist. Other medical treatments, such as anti-inflammatory creams or light therapy, are also possible. Always consult a doctor about these options.
• Consider getting tested for allergies. Certain foods can worsen skin symptoms.

During menopause, the hormones oestrogen and progesterone in your body fluctuate and largely disappear once your periods have completely stopped. This can cause symptoms such as hot flushes, vaginal dryness, or eczema. For severe symptoms, hormone therapy (HRT) is the most effective treatment. By replenishing the hormone deficiency, symptoms decrease. This helps restore balance in your body, giving you more energy and peace in your daily life.

Hormone therapy is always prescribed by a doctor and tailored to your personal situation to ensure the treatment is safe and effective.

During menopause, processes like energy production, muscle building, and skin repair change in your body. You can naturally support these processes with high-quality supplements. Magnesium, vitamin D, and omega-3 are recommended for every woman going through menopause.

The effectiveness of supplements depends on factors such as your lifestyle and health and can vary from person to person. The quality of the product also determines how well it works. Choose high-quality supplements without unnecessary fillers.