Dry Skin During Menopause

Many women are all too familiar with the hot flashes, night sweats and mood swings that often accompany menopause. Some women also experience dry skin and itching as a result of the estrogen loss that goes along with this important mid-life transition. Because chronically itchy skin may also be a sign of allergies, psoriasis, thyroid problems or liver disease, it is important to consult your healthcare provider to rule out other illnesses.

Causes

• Since estrogen normally stimulates oil producing glands, the skin has more opportunities to become dry during menopause when estrogen levels are low.

Healthy Eating

• Detoxifying the body by eating plenty of fruit and vegetables helps clear impurities from the body, resulting in healthier skin

Water

• Drinking eight to 10 glasses of pure water per day to keep skin hydrated is recommended. Avoid caffeine and alcohol since they act as diuretics. If you smoke, now would be a good time to stop since nicotine restricts the flow of blood through the skin's vessels.

Moisturizers

• There are a number of high quality moisturizers on the market that can help with dry skin. The best moisturizers contain vitamins A and E or alpha-hydroxy. Castor oil is another remedy that works well for some. Mixing a bit of peppermint or lavender oil with the castor oil will help diminish the unpleasant scent.

Vaginal Itching

• Some women may experience vaginal itching, which may or may not be accompanied by body-wide itching. As estrogen production declines, vaginal tissues thin and become drier. A bit of lavender oil blended with sesame or olive oils may help.

Estrogen Therapy

• Estrogen therapy may help alleviate various menopausal symptoms, including dry skin and itching. Estrogen is available by prescription in pill, ring, skin patch and vaginal cream and suppository forms. Consult your doctor if you think estrogen therapy might help you symptoms.