Menopause and itching: what are the causes?

The menopause is a crucial biological stage in a woman's life. Characterised by the cessation of menstruation, menopause is also accompanied by a host of visible and invisible symptoms, such as hot flushes, insomnia, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and urinary problems. Furthermore, menopause has consequences on a woman's skin and can be a source of itching.

These itches can be explained by the weakening and deterioration of the skin during menopause, or even during the pre-menopause stage. Indeed, during this period of life, the skin tends to become more permeable to allergens and less effective in its protective function against external aggressions. Common allergens such as nickel, perfume or even pollution particles are then more likely to penetrate the epidermis and trigger an immune system response, resulting in the release of chemical mediators of inflammation such as cytokines. These immune cells play a key role in the recruitment and activation of other immune cells and constitute a first line of defence against pathogens. Some are also responsible for sensations of pain and itching.

The question that now arises is: why does the skin become more fragile and drier during menopause ? This skin alteration is actually due to the drop in oestrogen and progesterone levels. Oestrogens are known to have an impact on the function of the skin barrier, particularly by regulating the production of collagen and elastin, which are essential components of the extracellular matrix. The decrease in oestrogens thus leads to an alteration of the horny layer, accompanied by a weakening of the hydrolipidic film, due to the decrease in progesterone production. Indeed, this hormone stimulates the activity of the sebaceous glands, synthesising sebum, an essential constituent of the hydrolipidic film. Furthermore, the drop in oestrogen levels causes a slowdown in cell renewal and the activity of keratinocytes, which also contributes to the weakening of the epidermis. Finally, this decrease can also affect the vascularisation of the skin, leading to a decrease in skin blood flow which compromises the skin's ability to regenerate and can exacerbate itching.

The best way to soothe itching caused by menopause is to strengthen the skin barrier. To do this, it is important to hydrate the skin daily with creams rich in humectants such as glycerine and nourishing and lipid-replenishing agents such as ceramides and plant oils and butters. At Typology, we offer you a whole range of products formulated for dry to very dry skin, in search of softness.

You can also utilise thermal waters, rich in minerals and trace elements with soothing properties. This can be achieved by performing prolonged sprays or applying compresses soaked in cool water directly onto the area prone to itching. Do not hesitate to add a few drops of true lavender essential oil, peppermint essential oil, or even Roman chamomile hydrosol to the wipe, these are natural ingredients renowned for their anti-inflammatory and calming properties.

Finally, the cold is a valuable ally in case of itching. When you feel a pulling sensation and the urge to scratch, wrap some ice cubes in a clean cloth and apply them for about fifteen minutes to your skin. This should help to soothe the irritation. However, be careful never to apply the ice cubes directly to the skin as this can cause significant burns.

• PIERARD G. & al. The Skin and the Time of Menopause. The Medical Review of Liège (2006).

• PUIZINA-IVIC N. Skin ageing.Acta Dermatovenerologica Alpina Pannonica et Adriatica (2008).