Understanding Perimenopause & Menopause and How They Affect Aging

As women, our bodies go through many changes over time, and two of the biggest transitions we experience are perimenopause and menopause. These stages are a normal part of aging, but they can bring unexpected symptoms and changes that affect everything from our skin to our energy levels.

Let’s break down what happens during perimenopause and menopause, how these changes affect the body, and what role they play in the aging process.

What is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the transitional phase before menopause, when the body gradually produces less estrogen. This stage can start as early as the mid-to-late 30s or 40s and can last anywhere from a few months to over a decade.

Common signs of perimenopause include: 

✅ Irregular periods (longer, shorter, heavier, or lighter than usual)

✅ Hot flashes & night sweats 

✅ Mood swings, irritability, or anxiety 

✅ Sleep disturbances 

✅ Decreased libido 

✅ Changes in skin texture and elasticity 

✅ Weight fluctuations

Because estrogen plays a big role in many bodily functions (including metabolism, brain function, and skin health), these shifts can feel frustrating and unpredictable.

What Happens During Menopause?

Menopause is officially reached when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a period. At this stage, estrogen and progesterone levels drop significantly, leading to a new set of changes in the body. Common symptoms of menopause include: 

🔥 Increased hot flashes & night sweats 

💤 Persistent sleep issues 

💙 Dryness & discomfort “down there” 

🧠 Brain fog & difficulty concentrating 

⚡ Lower energy levels & metabolism changes 

🦴 Loss of bone density, increasing the risk of osteoporosis

Since estrogen is a key player in keeping skin firm, bones strong, and energy levels balanced, menopause can make these areas more vulnerable to aging.

How Perimenopause & Menopause Affect Aging

1️⃣ Skin & Collagen Loss Estrogen is responsible for keeping skin hydrated, firm, and youthful. As estrogen declines, so does collagen production, leading to: 

🔹 Increased wrinkles & fine lines 

🔹 Dryer, thinner skin 

🔹 Loss of skin elasticity (sagging skin, especially around the jawline and cheeks)

2️⃣ Weight & Metabolism Changes Many women notice weight gain, especially around the abdomen, due to a slower metabolism and changing hormone levels. This shift makes it harder to maintain muscle mass, which can contribute to an aging appearance and lower energy levels.

3️⃣ Bone & Joint Health Estrogen helps protect bones, and as it declines, bones become more fragile and prone to osteoporosis. This is why joint pain, stiffness, and even posture changes can occur during and after menopause.

4️⃣ Mood, Memory & Brain Fog Have you ever walked into a room and forgotten why you were there? Menopausal brain fog is real! Estrogen affects the brain’s ability to process and recall information, so many women experience forgetfulness, mental fatigue, and trouble concentrating during this time.

5️⃣ Sexual Health Changes Lower estrogen levels can cause vaginal dryness, discomfort during intimacy, and a lower sex drive. This can impact confidence, relationships, and overall well-being, making it an important part of menopause care.

What Can Be Done to Support Aging During This Transition?

The good news? There are plenty of ways to support your body through perimenopause and menopause. Here are a few key strategies:

💧 Hydration & Skincare: Focus on moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, and retinoids to boost collagen and hydration.

🏋️‍♀️ Strength Training & Bone Health: Resistance training and calcium-rich foods help protect bone density and muscle strength.

🌿 Hormone Support: Some women find relief with hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or natural supplements like phytoestrogens, vitamin D, GLP-1s, and magnesium.

🛌 Prioritizing Sleep & Stress Management: Menopause can affect cortisol levels, so practicing good sleep hygiene, mindfulness, and gentle movement (like yoga or walking) can help regulate hormones.

🍽 A Balanced Diet: A diet rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber supports hormone balance, metabolism, and skin health. Omega-3s (found in salmon and flaxseeds) are great for skin and brain function.

👩‍⚕️ Aesthetic & Wellness Treatments: Many treatments, like Botox, dermal fillers, microneedling, and bioregenerative treatments, can counteract the visible signs of aging and help women feel their best.

Final Thoughts: Embracing This Chapter

Perimenopause and menopause are natural parts of life, but they don’t have to feel overwhelming! By understanding what’s happening to your body and taking proactive steps, you can feel confident in this new chapter.

If you're experiencing significant changes and want expert guidance on skin, bioregenerative treatments, or wellness options, we’re here to help! Reach out to schedule a consultation and let’s create a plan to help you feel your absolute best—inside and out. You don’t have to navigate it alone.