Here’s how to cope with the highs and lows of hormone changes
Please talk us through the common skin concerns associated with the perimenopause and menopause?
“The menopause madness, where to begin?! There a lot of issues, from dryness which is a result of the loss of oestrogen to hormonal changes causing breakouts. And don’t even get me started on the pigmentation!”
One of the craziest symptoms of menopause?
“The combination of all of the symptoms; the weight gain, the anxiety, hot flushes, panic and constantly waking up in the night.”
Talk us through the hot flushes?
“Well, to begin with they are awful and the number one aim is to reduce the heat. I love spritzing my skin with cooling mists and also keep all of my skincare in the fridge for added cooling benefits. Make sure you don’t just go for a water mist as they can actually be quite drying but look for one with floral waters and moisture-boosting ingredients like hyaluronic acid. On the subject of mists, did you know that 40-year old skin contains half the amount of naturally occurring hyaluronic acid as a 20 something! So, it is key to replenish your reserves with something cooling and super plumping, like the Balance Me Hyaluronic Plumping Mist. Also, keep one in your handbag during the day for a rejuvenating spritz on the go.”
“I love the menopause community. We all go through this tricky time, but we are in it together,” Lisa Snowdon
Sleep is often affected; do you have any advice for boosting a good night’s sleep?
“Yes! I was experiencing the worst surges of panic at bedtime. I would lie there and be falling asleep and then gasp, as if I were falling off a cliff. Luckily it stopped when I started taking medication. My bedside table is full of soothing and calming blends which I apply before bed. I also find that CBD oil is brilliant at calming a busy or anxious mind, and you can also apply it in the middle of the night if you wake up and feel too anxious to fall back to sleep. Creating a peaceful bedtime ritual to help relax your mind is fundamental. When you wake up in the morning, try and start your day with breath work to calm your mind and ground your body. Repeat throughout the day, especially if you feel the ‘fight or flight’ flutters descending.”
Do you avoid alcohol?
“Well, life is about balance, right? Hence your brand name! Life is about having fun but think before you drink because alcohol can disrupt sleep. On that note, be careful how much caffeine you have during the day. It can contribute to the hot flushes and impact your nerves and anxiety levels so limit your caffeine and try green tea for a change. It’s not rocket science but drink plenty of water too.”
Do you monitor your diet?
“Again, it’s about balance but weight gain is harder to control during this life stage so give yourself a head start and eat mindfully. My favourite sweet treat is anything from Firetree Chocolate. They have a 100% pure cocoa bar which is vegan and contains absolutely no sugar. Not for the faint hearted though! I also love fruit; berries, apples and grapes.”
Top tip on a ‘wobbly’ day?
“Take time to walk barefoot in nature, especially on grass. It’s extremely grounding and will immediately calm your mind, as well as your body.”
Shop Lisa’s SOS kit HERE
