After menopause, expect changes in your skin. Even women with oily skin will notice a difference. These changes may be subtle or dramatic, depending on your skin type, heredity and sun exposure over the years. You will need to add a few steps and some new products to your daily beauty regimen in order to adjust to these natural changes and keep your skin looking healthy and attractive.CleanseThe first item on your list should be a facial cleanser designed for your skin type. Most women find that after menopause their skin is drier, so keep that in mind when selecting a cleanser. Bath soap is too harsh for the face, but Dove is good for both. It's inexpensive and does a good job of removing makeup and grime without stripping the skin. Cream and liquid facial cleansers such Eucerin or Lubriderm also perform well. Olay and L'Oreal both offer products specifically formulated for mature skin.
Keeping your skin scrupulously clean is as important at this age as it was during the acne years. If you wear eye makeup, remove it with mineral oil or cold cream before you wash your face. Clean your face and neck morning and night, and don't forget the back of your neck; other people see it even if you don't.ExfoliateMature skin does not renew itself at the cellular level as quickly as younger skin, so you will have to help it along by faithful use of exfoliants. Used two or three times a week after cleansing and before moisturizing, exfoliants will make your skin noticeably smoother, help minimize pores and add a bit of youthful glow. Once again, the secret is consistency. The drugstore shelves are loaded with different types of exfoliants, so study the labels to find the type that suits you best.Moisturize and ProtectMoisturizer is a must for mature skin, but it doesn't have to be expensive. Walmart, Target and all the drug stores have mind-boggling arrays of skin care products, so finding what you need is not difficult. For daytime, choose a product with a sunscreen rating of at least 15. Eucerin Q10 Anti-Wrinkle lotion is an example as is L'Oreal Age Perfect Day cream. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, add additional sunscreen to your morning regimen. For nighttime use, choose a product that offers extra benefits for mature skin such as Olay Age Defying or Regenerist formulas. There are many other moisturizing lotions and creams in all price ranges, so shop around to see what suits your particular needs and budget. Use these creams religiously; they don't work if you don't use them. After you have purchased the basic moisturizers, select any other treatment products that appeal to you. Eye creams are helpful to stave off crow's feet and keep the eye area smooth, but special neck cream is of questionable worth; your day and nighttime moisturizes should take care of your neck as well as your face. Once again, don't forget the back of your neck. Don't overlook the skin on your hands, arms and legs. The skin on your body dries out just as your face does and requires care. Avoid harsh soaps and body washes that strip the skin and may even make you itch. The aforementioned Dove bar is excellent for bathing and often recommended by dermatologists to patients with dry skin. Other products are available, too, just be sure they are non-drying. Even if you've never done so, start applying moisturizing body cream or lotion after your bath or shower while your skin is still slightly damp. If your feet are calloused and your heels are cracked, try a product such as Pretty Feet that is designed to keep them soft and smooth. Scaly legs and rough heels are unattractive and can ruin panty hose. Apply sunscreen to any areas that will be exposed, including the tops of your hands. Re-apply sunscreen to your hands after washing them, especially if you're driving. Get into the habit of using hand lotion or hand cream several times during the day and always before going to bed. InformationAudrey Kunin, MD, discusses these suggestions and others on her website, DERMAdoctor. If you are seriously interested in improving or maintaining the appearance of your skin, this website is an excellent resource.
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