Do you ever stand in front of the mirror lamenting the loss of a clearer skin tone? Our forties and fifties, are the decades when skin sins of times gone by can often decide to appear. Coupled with the hormonal skin changes that are a part of the onset of menopause, often we feel we have to resign ourselves to looking at a more mottled complexion with dark patches and a loss of glow as the two things that can cause visible difference to the skin’s overall texture and appearance.

Also known as hyperpigmentation, increased pigmentation occurs due to over-production in the number of pigment-producing cells in the skin, and the pigmented substance they produce (melanin). Irregular pigmentation and age spots become more prominent because the skin becomes thinner with this melanin accumulation in areas of chronic sun exposure such as the face, chest, hands and arms.

Melasma is the most common form of facial pigmentation, and you're more likely to get it from 40 onwards. So what to do?

“A skin care regimen composed of scientifically-proven products can combat the changes of skin texture, tightness and tone seen with menopause. For those who suffer from abnormal pigmentation, using a tinted physical sunblock can give additional benefit as the Iron oxide helps to block out possible effects of visible light from computer screens and indoor lights”, says Consultant Dermatologist, Dr. Caitriona Ryan, at instituteofdermatologists.ie.

What else can be done when it comes to skin pigmentation?

“First thing to do is find out if you have pigmentation (sun damage) or Melasma linked to hormones,” explains Irish skincare specialist Natalie Larkin of skinpassion.ie.

“Pigmentation can be treated with lightening and brightening products. The idea is to lighten the pigmentation, (whether caused by acne or sun damage) and brighten up your complexion. This will give a much more even skin tone.”

She recommends taking care during the summer months using SPF and high-quality products to maintain your skin and then you can do some specific things aimed at pigmentation during winter. Successful treatment of hyperpigmentation hinges on strict sun avoidance.

“You can have facial peels aimed at pigmentation especially in winter months,” she continues. These treatments are often performed during autumn and winter as they can increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Typical peel ingredients for pigmentation include glycolic acid, lactic acid, retinol or resorcinol.

“Wearing a good quality high SPF all year round is essential. My advice for summer is to avoid direct sun on your face so big glasses, caps or hats.”

She recommends products from Biologique Recherche for particular pigmentation concerns, including ingredients including vitamin A (retinol), azelaic acid, niacinamide, kojic acid and vitamin C and adds that you should continue your regime during lockdown, even if you are not going anywhere.

Dr Ryan adds that good skincare in your forties onwards can be got from a combination of factors, not just using the right products. “There are several approaches to counteract the effects of oestrogen deficiency and ageing. A healthy lifestyle can really help push back the hands of time. It is important to avoid UV damage, smoking and pollution, to maintain a healthy, balanced and protein-rich diet and to exercise regularly.

Our recommended products:

We have tried and tested the, frankly wonderful, results from these products, all of which work gently but effectively to clear and brighten skin. Bear in mind though, current advice is that if you use the Biologique Recherche Lotion P50, it is acid based and so therefore better to use on alternate nights to any retinol product. Too much of a good thing etc.

Also consider that skin damage or hormonal effects do not have a quick fix solution. Patience and consistency is required, but is also rewarded, so go forth and brighten up this winter!