There are too many things to celebrate when you hit the big 4-0. YOU’RE wiser; you have a better sense of who you are; you’re probably more comfortable in your own skin. But, speaking of… this age also comes with some notable changes in the skin, such as a “drop-in collagen production“. We can also accumulate more sun and toxin exposure, and some of us begin experiencing perimenopause (the transition into menopause). And here you come with the most common skin conditions appearing to you.

All of these changes can cause your skin to look “less supple” than it once did. In addition, if you know your skin type, it could begin to change after turning 40, becoming more dry or sensitive. But remember that your skin type is different from a skin condition—your skin type can subtly change as you age, but skin conditions may come and go and aren’t considered part of your skin type.

So what skin conditions do women 40 & over experience? Here are the most common skin conditions to be aware of and their “symptoms and treatment”!

Types of Skin Conditions

#1 Menopause

While not technically a skin condition, menopause can cause a lot of changes in the skin. Women can begin to experience menopause symptoms as early as their mid-40s!

Symptoms

Menopause is known for causing drier, thinner skin thanks to changing estrogen levels in the body. If you experience hot flashes (and most women will), you may also see a red flush on your chest, neck, and face during these episodes.

Causes

Declining estrogen levels in the body as your fertile year’s end can cause thinner, drier skin that may also be more sensitive.

Treatments

Changing YOUR skincare routine or products as needed can be helpful. And so take good care of yourself by exercising and eating healthy!

#2 Acne

Ugh, you thought you were done with acne! But changing hormones can make acne have a comeback during your 40s.

Symptoms

You may start breaking out more during your periods or even have mild to severe acne even when it’s not that time of the month.

Causes

Genetics, stress, diet, lack of sleep, and lack of exercise can trigger acne during your 40s, as can hormonal changes associated with menopause and perimenopause.

Treatments

YOU may not need any treatment outside of lifestyle changes or switching up your skincare routine, but you may need to investigate prescription retinoids if your acne doesn’t go away or is more severe.

#3 Rosacea

Rosacea is a term that characterizes skin that easily reacts to changes in temperature or maybe more sensitive to skincare products.

Symptoms

Skin that flushes easily and reacts to the weather is characteristic of rosacea.

Causes

The triggers for rosacea can be different for everyone but can include sunlight, stress, heat, alcohol, spicy foods, some skincare products, weather, and even some medications.

Treatments

Treatment for rosacea will depend on your triggers and may include diet changes, prescription creams, glycolic acid peels, or laser therapy.

#4 Eczema

The most common type of skin condition is eczema, and it includes flare-ups of dry, sensitive skin resulting from skin inflammation.

Symptoms

YOU may see areas of skin that appear dry, scaly, sensitive or red, and don’t go away quickly. Eczema may also be uncomfortable or have a burning sensation.

Causes

Many causes of eczema (atopic dermatitis) can be different for everyone and may include food allergies and skin irritants (think skincare products that are too harsh for your face).

Treatments

Treatment will depend on your causes but may include avoiding skin irritants, getting tested for food allergies or intolerances, and, for some, medications.

#5 Aging Skin

One of the most common skin conditions, aging skin, is a primary concern as you get into YOUR 40s.

Symptoms

The skin may seem thin, dry, or have more wrinkles. Some may also notice sagging, less defined skin that may also be more sensitive.

Causes

Declining estrogen levels thanks to the transition into menopause, sun exposure, cigarette smoking, and poor diet can all influence skin aging.

Treatments

Taking care of your skin is your best defense against aging skin. It includes using sunscreen, not smoking, exercising, and eating a healthy diet!

#6 Hyperpigmentation

YOUR skin will get discolored due to hyperpigmentation. This skin condition can range from mild to more noticeable.

Symptoms

You may see patches of skin that are darker than your normal skin. There may only be a mild color change at first, and then it may become more noticeable.

Causes

Hyperpigmentation is usually the result of sun exposure, but it can also be from scarring, such as from acne.

Treatments

Chemical peels and laser therapy may be helpful for hyperpigmentation, but these treatments may not be appropriate for sensitive skin. The best thing you need to do is wear sunscreen to prevent future damage and follow up with your dermatologist.

#7 Broken Capillaries

Broken capillaries are small blood vessels that have been damaged and have burst underneath the skin.

Symptoms

You’ll see what appear to be minor red veins, most commonly around the nose and cheeks.

Causes

The causes of broken capillaries vary but may include genetics, sun exposure, alcohol consumption, drastic changes in weather, injuries, and rosacea.

Treatments

Treatment can include the use of retinoids or laser therapy to reduce or eliminate the appearance of broken capillaries.

#8 Keratosis Pilaris

Also called chicken skin, keratosis pilaris is more common during the dry months of the year.

Symptoms

You may have itchy, dry skin that’s rough and includes raised bumps, which may or may not appear irritated.

Causes

Researchers aren’t sure why some people develop this condition, but it happens when dead skin cells clog pores to create a raised, rough, bumpy texture.

Treatments

Using a moisturizer can help reduce the appearance of keratosis pilaris; laser therapy and chemical peels may also help.

#9 Melanoma

Melanoma is one kind of skin cancer that is considered the most dangerous type of skin condition, as it can often spread without people noticing.

Symptoms

You may notice a new spot on your skin that changes size, shape, or color. It may also appear to your skin as a sore that doesn’t heal or a mole that’s become more red, painful, or is experiencing other changes in size and color.

Causes

Sun exposure and a mix of environmental and genetic factors are suspected of causing melanoma.

Treatments

Treatment may involve drugs, surgery, or diet and lifestyle changes.

What Skin Condition Is Your Biggest Concern?

Have YOU experienced any unexpected or common skin conditions in your 40s? Which one is your “biggest concern“? Let us know in the comments below!