Here at Boots, we know that every menopause journey is different. From hot flushes to vaginal dryness and everything in between, we’re with you every step of the way to help make the signs and symptoms of menopause and perimenopause a little more manageable.
This article is sponsored by Gina, Gold Collagen, L’Oréal Paris, Promensil, Pantene, Clairol, Always Discreet & Balance Activ
Here at Boots, we know that every menopause journey is different. From hot flushes to vaginal dryness and everything in between, we’re with you every step of the way to help make the symptoms of menopause and perimenopause a little more manageable.
What is menopause & when does it start?
Menopause happens when your periods stop due to lower oestrogen levels. This most commonly happens between the ages of 45 and 55.
Menopause affects everyone who has periods. It can happen naturally, or as a result of things like genetics, certain surgeries, or cancer treatments.
Perimenopause is when you may have signs and symptoms of menopause, but your periods haven't yet stopped.
Menopause and perimenopause, and everything that goes with them, can have a big impact. From work to relationships and general wellbeing, you may find that menopause touches every aspect of your day-to-day life. Luckily there’s lots of support available to help you face any menopause signs and symptoms that may come your way.
What are the signs & symptoms of menopause?
Everyone’s experience of menopause is different, but some of the most common signs and symptoms of the menopause and perimenopause include mood changes and a change in the normal pattern of your periods.
You may also experience physical signs and symptoms such as hot flushes, changes in your skin and hair, and vaginal dryness. Find out more about the signs and symptoms of menopause in our A-Z guide.
Your menopause journey can be, well, a journey, to say the least. During this time, it's important to be kind to yourself and accept support where you can.
Menopause skin saviours
Lower oestrogen levels can mean your skin loses its elasticity, so if you've noticed your skin feels drier and less firm recently, it may be related to menopause.
Luckily, there are products out there that can help. From supplements that can help support your skin during the menopause, to skincare formulated especially for your skin’s changing needs, we’ve got you covered.
Consider: Gold Collagen Forte Plus
• Size: 10 x 50ml bottles
• Reduces the appearance of wrinkles & pigmentation
• Supports skin hydration & elasticity
These little wonder bottles not only help to reinvigorate your skin, they come with a whole host of other benefits to help you stay on top form during the menopause. Vitamin B6 helps regulate hormone levels while vitamin B1 helps keep the heart functioning normally.
Try: L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Cell Renew Midnight Serum
• Size: 30ml
• Formulated to support the skin’s own cell renewal process
• Suitable for all skin tones & types
A good night’s sleep for your skin? Count us in! Formulated to help support your skin’s natural cell renewal process when it’s most receptive to repair (aka, at night time), you can wake up to skin that looks and feels rested, radiant and hydrated thanks to this comforting serum pulling an all-nighter.
Menopause hair hacks
Menopause can take its toll on your hair. We’re talking dry scalps, hair loss, thinning and receding. All of which can have an effect on your confidence – after all, for lots of us our hair is our crowning glory (no pun intended). Whether you love a bouncy blow dry or you’re or a proud member of the messy bun club (we’re the latter), your hair’s a part of your personality, and menopause shouldn’t change that.
Take a look at our product recommendations to help put the bounce back into your barnet and the spring back in your step.
Try: Pantene Hair Biology Menopause Hair Thickening Serum
• Size: 100ml
• Leave-in spray
Specially formulated for menopause, this serum’s infused with vitamin B3 and white tea to instantly soothe your scalp and create the look of thicker hair. It can be used on wet or dry hair and dries quickly, so you can use it at home or on the go.
Try: Clairol Root Touch Up 2 In 1 Spray
• Size: 75ml
• Peroxide-free
• Ammonia-free
• Provides colour & volume
A little self-care goes a long way, especially during the menopause. This root touch-up is a quick-fix in a can, giving an added boost of volume for fuller-looking hair and instant grey coverage all in a simple spritz. Available in five shades, it’s suitable to use on salon colour and all hair types and textures, so it’s perfect for a quick pick-me-up.
Keep your cool during hot flushes & night sweats
If you need a helping hand when it comes to the menopause headliners (hot flushes and night sweats, we're looking at you), you’re not alone.
Our feature on how to manage the menopause shares top tips on dealing with hot flushes and night sweats, including taking a cool shower and avoiding spicy food and caffeine. This top product pick might just help too…
Consider: Promensil Double Strength 30s
• 30 tablets
• Scientifically tested
• Boots Vitamin Awards 2018 winner – favourite from the Menopause Support category
Isoflavones (phytoestrogens) found in legumes such as lentils and chickpeas may help menopausal symptoms, as well as a daily dose of Promensil Double Strength tablets with 80mg of natural and standardised red clover isoflavones, which helps with hot flushes and night sweats.†
Bladder weakness back-up
Decreased levels of oestrogen during the menopause may also mean your pelvic floor muscles relax and you may experience bladder weakness.
We’re here to help make sure you feel your most confident, and that means not letting little leaks get in the way of your day. We’ve got a range of incontinence products that can help, including the one below…
Try: Always Discreet Incontinence Pads Long Plus
• 16 pads
• Strong protection for heavier needs
• Absorbs bladder leaks & odours in seconds
Put bladder weakness to the back of your mind with these extra-secure pads. Their long length gives extra peace of mind against leaks, and they’re thin enough to be discreet and comfortable without compromising on protection. It’s time to put laughing, sneezing and surprises (the good kind) all back on the agenda!
Relieve vaginal dryness
Taking care of ‘down there’ might work its way to the top of your to-do list during the menopause. If you're experiencing signs and symptoms like vaginal dryness and discomfort, it’s probably down to – you guessed it – those pesky oestrogen levels.
We've got options such as tablets, gels and lubricant to help. And if vaginal dryness is affecting your sex life, check out our feature on the best lubricants for menopause.
Try: Balance Activ Menopause Moisturiser Gel
• 7 tubes
• Hormone free
• Water-based
Help manage dry spells with this menopause moisturiser gel. Formulated with a unique blend of hyaluronic acid to help restore your body’s natural moisture, it aims to provide long-lasting relief from dryness, irritation and discomfort. Apply at bedtime for best results.
Consider: Gina 10 Micrograms Vaginal Tablets
• 24 tablets
• Treats & relieves vaginal symptoms post-menopause
If you're over 50 years of age and it's been at least 12 months since your last period, and you are experiencing vaginal symptoms, these vaginal tablets may be suitable. Gina is a vaginal treatment, which helps to treat and relieve vaginal symptoms of menopause including dryness, soreness, burning, itching and painful intercourse.*
*Contains active ingredient estradiol 10 micrograms (as estradiol hemihydrate). Always read the label. Supply is subject to pharmacist approval.
Find out more about menopause symptoms, advice and support in our Menopause Health Hub
