skin

Menopause can trigger skin changes such as dry or itchy skin and is experienced by many women.  Skin problems during menopause are closely linked with hormonal changes. Itchy skin, medically known as pruitis, can be very uncomfortable and can disrupt a woman’s sleep pattern.

Skin changes can begin as early as perimenopause whilst other women may experience skin changes after menopause.

Treating itchy skin requires a number of self care techniques:

It is essential within your diet to have an intake of omega-3 fatty acids found in foods such as salmon, walnuts, eggs, sardines, flaxseed and soya. Add more foods to your diet that contain vitamin B, such as whole grain oats, green peas, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, mushrooms, molasses, cooked cabbage, tuna, spinach. To help with the itchy skin you will need more alpha-hydroxy acids such as tomatoes, grapes, pineapple, apples, and blackberries. Finally, you need more calcium, which you can get from foods such as asparagus, almonds, figs, and oats.

Consume plenty of water to help hydrate the skin from inside to out. 

Shower using warm water – it is thought that hot water can dry out the skin. Use a gentle soap unscented or lightly scented.

Moisturise within a few minutes after your warm shower. For dry skin problems on the face use topical antioxidants such as vitamin C or green tea. To help your moisturiser penetrate the skin, exfoliate with a gentle exfoliator or products containing alpha or beta-hydroxy acids. Always use a quality sunscreen when venturing out into the sunshine.

Exercise, which is important in menopause, can keep skin healthy. Exercise, like oestrogen, can increase collagen, which keeps skin youthful.

Avoid smoking, excessive sun exposure, stress and lack of sleep.

Try drinking a little peppermint tea or chamomile tea. You can even use peppermint or chamomile oil on a clean washcloth with cool water, placing it on the itchy area.

These self care tips for itchy skin are just a few that may work and are generally easy to administer. With proper care inside and out you can reduce the itching. As there are many symptoms of menopause, you want to eliminate as many as possible.

Having tried many of these techniques, and if you still find that you are itching, then you should talk to your doctor or dermatologist who may recommend a prescription medication.

Information written by the talkhealth medical panel

Last Reviewed: 14 February 2011
Next Review Date: 14 February 2013