Pigmentation has been a long-standing issue for me, beginning with freckles in my teenage years. Spending countless hours under the sun in my 20s and 30s without proper sunblock worsened it, and in recent years, the hormonal changes brought on by perimenopause have led to melasma patches on my cheeks. While treatments like lasers have offered some improvement, understanding the science behind pigmentation and exploring proven skincare solutions has been key to managing it effectively.
Why Pigmentation Worsens During Perimenopause and Menopause
Pigmentation issues, such as melasma, age spots, and general darkening of the skin, often become more pronounced during perimenopause and menopause due to hormonal and physiological changes. Here’s why:
- Hormonal Fluctuations: Oestrogen and progesterone levels drop during perimenopause, disrupting melanin regulation in the skin. This can lead to overproduction of melanin, resulting in patches of hyperpigmentation, particularly on areas exposed to the sun.
- Slower Cell Turnover: As we age, the skin’s ability to renew itself slows down. Pigment that would typically fade naturally lingers longer, making spots more noticeable.
- Cumulative Sun Damage: Years of unprotected sun exposure contribute to age spots and other forms of pigmentation. UV rays accelerate melanin production, and the damage becomes more visible as skin thins with age.
Understanding these causes highlights why a multifaceted approach—including protection, treatment, and ongoing care—is essential to managing pigmentation.
Treatment Options for Pigmentation
Pigmentation treatments range from over-the-counter skincare to advanced dermatological procedures. The best approach often depends on the severity of the pigmentation and individual skin characteristics.
1. Topical Treatments
Topical products with proven active ingredients can be highly effective for mild to moderate pigmentation. Commonly recommended options include:
- Vitamin C: An antioxidant that brightens skin and reduces melanin production.
- Niacinamide: Regulates melanin transfer and soothes inflammation, making it ideal for sensitive or ageing skin.
- Tranexamic Acid: Reduces pigmentation and is especially effective for hormonal melasma.
- Exfoliating Acids (AHAs/BHAs): Acids like glycolic acid exfoliate the top layer of skin, speeding up the fading of dark spots.
2. Clinical Procedures
For more stubborn pigmentation, dermatological treatments can offer faster results:
- Chemical Peels: Use acids like glycolic or salicylic acid to exfoliate and lighten dark spots.
- Laser Therapy: Targets and breaks down melanin deposits, though it may require multiple sessions for optimal results.
- Microneedling: Stimulates collagen production and can improve overall skin tone when combined with other treatments.
3. Preventive Measures
Even with effective treatments, preventing new pigmentation is crucial. Daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50+ is essential. Hats, sunglasses, and clothing that offer UV protection can further safeguard your skin.
While pigmentation during perimenopause and menopause can be challenging, understanding its causes and exploring proven treatments and ingredients makes it more manageable. Whether through skincare, professional treatments, or preventive measures, there are effective ways to improve and maintain your skin’s health and radiance.
Disclaimer: Above is a summary of the online research I’ve done in the course of searching for solutions for myself, and is not meant as professional advice. Always consult a doctor or dermatologist for personalised advice, especially for more severe or stubborn pigmentation concerns.
https://www.jidonline.org
https://link.springer.com
https://www.jaad.org
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com
https://www.sciencedirect.com
https://www.derm.theclinics.com
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
https://www.aad.org
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
https://dermnetnz.org
Women Beyond 50 
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