The relationship between rosacea and menopause: how you can effectively manage the symptoms and prevent flare ups

If you're going through menopause at the moment, you know that this brings with it a knock-on effect of changes throughout the body. You might have noticed that this includes some changes in your skin. We women of a certain age don’t have it easy do we? 

As we’re all so unique, the effect that menopause has on one of us might be totally different to the effects someone else will experience. One possibility that some women report is the onset or worsening of rosacea. Rosacea is a common skin condition that causes redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes bumps and pimples on the face. It can be frustrating and affects roughly 10% of people. 

In this blog, we’re going to explore the relationship between rosacea and menopause. We'll look at the hormonal changes that occur during menopause, and how they can affect your skin. Most importantly we'll share some tips and tricks for managing this condition during this transitional phase of life. You're certainly not alone, and there are effective treatments and strategies for managing your symptoms. So, whether you’re currently experiencing menopause or simply curious about rosacea, read on to learn more.

What is rosacea? 

Rosacea is a skin condition that is characterized by redness, visible blood vessels, and small acne-like bumps, typically affecting the cheeks and nose. It can come and go in terms of severity and in 2018, a study estimated that around 415 million people worldwide, or one in ten people in the US, are affected by rosacea. While rosacea can affect anyone, it tends to be more common in women and more severe in men, and fair-skinned people are at a higher risk. The condition is more prevalent in those over the age of 30 and can have a genetic component, particularly in people of northern or eastern European descent. Although there’s currently no cure for rosacea, there are effective ways to manage the symptoms.

What is menopause?

Menopause is a normal biological process that happens when a woman's reproductive years come to an end. Usually, it kicks in between the ages of 45 and 55, and it's confirmed when a woman hasn't had her period for a year. When menopause hits, your body stops making as much estrogen and progesterone, which can lead to all sorts of changes. You might experience hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, dryness, and trouble sleeping. It can be a tough time, but there are plenty of ways to manage the symptoms. If you're struggling with menopause symptoms, it's always a good idea to talk to your doctor

The relationship between rosacea and menopause

When women experience hormonal changes during menopause, it can affect the skin in various ways. According to a study published in Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, there is a correlation between menopause and rosacea. The study revealed that menopausal flushing can worsen and trigger rosacea.  

We need to remember that menopause is the second largest hormonal shift after puberty for women. The hormonal changes affect various organs, particularly the skin, making the natural skin barrier generally more sensitive and vulnerable to irritation.

The loss of estrogen and progesterone, the female reproductive hormones, causes the transition into menopause.

Estrogen stimulates the formation of skin-smoothing collagen and oils. That's why, as menopause approaches and estrogen production diminishes, dry, itchy skin becomes very common. This in itself can lead to redness

The exact reason for the link between menopause and rosacea isn’t yet fully understood. However, it is thought that hormonal changes during menopause might lead to a decrease in collagen production, which can cause the skin to become thinner and more sensitive. This, in turn, can worsen or trigger rosacea symptoms such as redness, flushing, and visible blood vessels on the face. 

Hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause can cause flushing and increased blood flow to the face, which can trigger rosacea flare-ups. Also, stress and anxiety can make rosacea worse. Menopause can mess with your hormones and make you feel more anxious, which can trigger hot flashes and rosacea. So not only do you have to deal with the heat, but your anxiety can also cause your face to flare up. It’s a bit of a vicious cycle.

Managing rosacea during menopause

Rosacea can be a real pain, especially for women going through menopause. Dr. Wilma Bergfeld, a top dermatologist, says many women experience more flushing and pimples during these times. It's not totally clear why hormones can make rosacea worse, but it's a common observation.

Hot flashes are a common culprit for making rosacea worse during menopause. Luckily, there are some treatments out there that can help. Hormone replacement therapy and antihistamines can both help reduce flushing and inflammation. Plus, if you're feeling anxious or down during menopause, antidepressants can help with that, too. So don't suffer in silence - talk to your doctor about your options!

Balancing hormones is crucial in reducing rosacea flare-ups, especially since hot flashes after menopause can trigger the development of rosacea. Hormone replacement therapy, bioidentical hormones, and other medications can help reduce inflammation and the severity of both hot flashes and rosacea. Antihistamines, known for their anti-inflammatory properties, can also be helpful in treating the condition. To lessen the likelihood of stress-induced rosacea flare-ups, antidepressants can also be prescribed to manage the emotional side effects of menopause.

Prevention, self-care and skincare for rosacea and menopause

There are several prevention strategies women can take to manage rosacea during menopause. Avoiding triggers such as spicy foods, hot beverages, and alcohol can help reduce flushing and inflammation. Wearing sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 and protective clothing can also prevent sun damage, which can worsen rosacea symptoms. Additionally, staying cool with fans or air conditioning can alleviate hot flashes that can exacerbate rosacea. 

According to the American Academy of Dermatology - In menopause, skin loses some ability to hold water, so skin can get quite dry. This can be especially noticeable when the air is dry. It is very important to moisturise now more than ever. Often products that worked for your skin before, are no longer sufficient for your new drier skin. You need heavier, more oil based facial products. Our calming serum 1 is good for skin that feels dry around the onset and post menopause. Layer the moisturising balm on top of it and you will reduce moisture loss across the skin.

Self-care tips for managing both rosacea and menopause symptoms include staying hydrated, getting regular exercise, and managing stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga. Women can also try incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into their diet such as leafy greens, fatty fish, and berries. There are plenty of online forums and local support groups that can provide a community for women with rosacea and menopause to share their experiences and find emotional support. Your doctor can also offer guidance and treatment options for managing both conditions.

The bottom line

Dealing with rosacea during menopause can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to be a nightmare. The good news is that there are plenty of strategies you can try to reduce your symptoms and keep your skin looking healthy and radiant. By following a few simple lifestyle changes like avoiding triggers, wearing sunscreen, and practicing good skincare, you can help keep your rosacea under control. You may also want to talk to your doctor about prescription treatments that can help manage your symptoms.

Remember, menopause is a natural part of life, and so is rosacea. Don't let it hold you back from feeling your best and enjoying life to the fullest. With a positive attitude and a little bit of effort, you can navigate the challenges of menopause and rosacea like a pro!

With love from Ireland,

Finola