Have you noticed blotchy brown or grey patches appearing on your face as you go through menopause? Fluctuating hormone levels and accumulated sun damage are to blame.
In addition to skin dryness, loss of radiance and increased skin sensitivity, many women develop hyperpigmentation around this time. Those pesky dark spots on your face can be hard to treat but the using right combination of active ingredients can make a huge difference to your complexion and effectively fade dark spots. Look no further than retinol and niacinamide – two proven active ingredients that pair well together to treat hyperpigmentation for menopausal skin.
What is hyperpigmentation and how is it linked to menopause?
Hyperpigmentation causes patches of skin to become darker than their surrounding areas. In addition to its many other functions, oestrogen helps control melanin production. When oestrogen levels start to fluctuate then melanin production can increase, triggering the appearance of dark spots. Oestrogen has a role in the upkeep of protective melanocytes and without their natural defence against UV radiation, the skin can lighten causing uneven tone and making it more susceptible to sun damage.
Hormonal fluctuations can often coincide with the emergence of sun damage which accumulates over time making hyperpigmentation common around menopause. Some women also find that using HRT can have an effect on oestrogen levels triggering hyperpigmentation.
What ingredients can help target hyperpigmentation in menopause?
The good news is there are skincare ingredients that can be used effectively to dimmish hyperpigmentation. The trick is to use proven actives that pair well together for the best results whilst avoiding irritation.
Retinol for hyperpigmentation
Retinol is an umbrella term for compounds derived from vitamin A. These are officially called retinoids, and there are quite a few different varieties out there. Retinol works in both the outer layer (epidermis) and inner level (dermis) of the skin. It increases the thickness of both layers by increasing cell turnover and stimulating collagen production and the emergence of fresh new skin cells. When new skin cells are formed, they will be more evenly pigmented.
Retinoid creams and serums are renowned for being the gold standard for ageing well and treating a range of skin symptoms including hyperpigmentation. They can fade age spots and increase the production of collagen and elastin in the skin.
Retinol reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation by inhibiting the activity of tyrosinase, an enzyme that stimulates melanin production in the skin. It thickens and lightens the skin making it stronger and more resilient.
Niacinamide for hyperpigmentation
One of the main weapons against skin hyperpigmentation in menopause is Niacinamide. Also known as Vitamin B3, it’s a real skincare superstar with multiple benefits for menopausal skin. It’s one of the most effective antioxidants available and niacinamide helps reduce inflammation without any radical damage, preventing pigmentary changes. It works to evens out any colour variations you might have while also enhancing the hydration of your skin. It is also great for sun protection, shielding your skin cells from damage caused by ultraviolet rays and helps protect against further skin damage in the form of hyperpigmentation.
How to Use Niacinamide and Retinol Together
Niacinamide pairs well with most skincare ingredients and it is well known for being super effective without causing skin irritation and is well tolerated by even the most sensitive skin types.
A combination of retinol and niacinamide will effectively reduce hyperpigmentation and prevent further damage from forming.
You can safely layer niacinamide in different products like your serum and your moisturiser to maximise it’s benefits. Use niacinamide in the AM to maximise it’s antioxidant benefits and always use retinol at night
The Menopause Skin Solution Set is a simplified menopausal skincare routine for maximum results. The high-performance products have been expertly developed to complement one another to target the top symptoms of menopausal skin changes including hyperpigmentation, dryness, loss of radiance and increased skin sensitivity.
Step 1 Quench & Soothe Serum (35ml) is a next level super hydrator designed to soothe and calm sensitised skin and even out skin tone. With niacinamide for an ultra-hydrated, brighter, clearer complexion. Superstar Ingredients: Multi-molecular hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and Vitamin B5.
Step 2 Collagen Boost Moisturiser (50ml) is a multi-tasking dream cream designed to boost collagen production and deliver vital nourishment for plumper, glowing, firmer skin. With a potent blend of skin nourishing collagen boosting ingredients including niacinamide for skin brightening. Layer with Quench & Soothe Serum in the morning to maximise the effect of niacinamide in tackling hyperpigmentation.
Step 3 Super A Retinol Sleep Cream (50ml) A high-performance retinol blend designed to accelerate cell turnover for radiant, smoother, stronger skin. Specifically designed for menopausal skin so you can enjoy all the benefits of retinol without the irritating downsides. Superstar ingredients: 0.5% encapsulated retinol, ceramides, multi-molecular hyaluronic acid.
Click here to shop Menopause Skin Solution Set £100.00 (Usually £125 when bought separately).
