The menopause beauty toolkit to know

Skincare

Active skincare products are obviously essential to bolster diminishing collagen levels, cellular activity, and erratic hormones and to restore suppleness, moisture and glow to the face. SkinCeuticals, Lancôme, Vichy and Clarins have excellent formulas from which to create an effective skincare regime, while CeraVe and Kiehl’s body products are beautifully repairing and nourishing. Equally, there’s a welcome place for a more natural, organic approach, and for those who prefer to go the bioactive route, brands including Nunaïa, Voya, Seavite and Codex Beauty have glorious products harvested from nature and packed with natural vitamins, peptides and lipids.

Fibre

While much has been written about the benefits of CBD oils and balms as a skincare ingredient, those who find themselves ricocheting around the menopause will appreciate the more emotionally-balancing effects. Often when hunting for a solution, we overlook the obvious. When it comes to menopause and perimenopause, one of the most effective weapons to looking and feeling better is fibre and (whispers) a good poo. It rids the body of used hormones and other toxic waste which, when retained by the body, lowers mood and energy levels.

Hydration

Ditto hydration. Downing those essential two litres of water a day lessens the impact of tension, headaches, brain fog and frustration, especially when sleep quality and patterns are disturbed. A mid-afternoon spritz with aromatherapy-boosted, hyaluronic-infused mineral water will not just raise the skin’s moisture levels, but will also boost concentration and raise flagging spirits.

Self-care

While most women in their forties and fifties might eye-roll at the thought of time for self-care, it’s essential, even if that means simply locking yourself in the bathroom for ten minutes to discombobulate. Book in for restorative treatments – massage, reflexology, acupuncture and schedule parasympathetic Pilates or yoga to keep muscles engaged while the mind powers down.

Sleep

In menopause, good sleep is the elusive holy grail. Set yourself up for success by making bedtime a peaceful ritual with a relaxing app like Calm or Headspace, some lavender pillow spray like the ones from Neom Organics or This Works, and make your bed your nest. Blackout blinds, phones off the nightstand and fresh air are all excellent ideas too.

The products to know