Category: blog

The simple answer is, yes. Your diet can have a significant impact on your menopause – and the years beyond. 

 I’ve been working as a registered nutritionist in the menopause space for almost a decade. I’ve helped thousands of women – of all ages and stages – navigate the menopause transition. The most common lament when I very first start working with women is that they feel out of control. That they’ve lost their way. That their body feels alien. It’s almost as if they don’t recognise themselves any more. My job is to help put them back in control, more comfortable in their skin and feeling vital, energised, strong and excited about life. 

Navigating Menopause Through Nutrition 

For most women in the UK, menopause happens between the ages of 45 to 52, which means a good chunk of life will be lived post menopausally. The key to making this second chapter look healthy and robust lies in getting the right nutrition and lifestyle measures in place. I understand there’s a lot of confusion and mixed messages around this topic. One of the main reasons I wrote my book, The Perimenopause Solution, was to cut through this noise to give women evidence based, actionable strategies that get results. If you’re feeling overwhelmed yourself and wondering where to start with your diet and health, here are some pointers.

Key Menopause Health Markers You Should Track

Think about getting a baseline blood panel carried out by your GP. Ideally you want to know what your iron, ferritin (stored iron), vitamin D, B12, thyroid and folate levels are doing. Deficiencies in one or more of these markers can often mimic those of peri/menopause. It’s also handy to get your hba1c, which is your average blood glucose over the last 3 months, and cholesterol scores. Metabolic health often takes a bit of a nose dive around this time, knowing your numbers can help you stay heart healthy. 

Bone Health and Menopause: How Nutrition Can Help

On the subject of future proofing your health, please pay attention to your bones. There are all sorts of alarming statistics around the increased risk of osteoporosis as we head into menopause. Thankfully, lots can be done to keep bone density strong. Weight bearing exercise (resistance training, jumping, skipping, dancing, racket sports) along with a bone friendly diet of calcium, vitamin D and K2 (see below), magnesium and protein is essential. Use an online calculator to work out roughly how much calcium you’re consuming – just google ‘calcium calculator’. Under 50, you need 700mg a day, over the age of 50, it’s around 1200mg. Sardines, dairy, fortified plant milks (check the label), broccoli, tofu, kale, spinach, watercress, figs, oranges and white beans are all good sources.  

Supplements to Support Your Menopause Journey

Supplements can be a minefield and we have to be wary of all the menowashing that seems to be so prevalent at the moment. The global menopause industry is now worth billions, which means every day there’s a new ‘wonder supplement’ on the market. I’m very conservative when it comes to pills, powders and potions. Most have little to no evidence behind them. That said, I do have a few recommendations. Pretty much all of us need to be thinking about a vitamin D3 supplement as we head into winter in the UK. Taking vitamin K2 alongside D3 can help with calcium absorption, which benefits bones, so look for preparations that contain both vitamins. It is essential that you speak to your primary healthcare provider first, however, as there are contraindications with vitamin K2, especially if you’re taking blood thinning medication such as Warfarin. An omega 3 fish oil can be helpful if you’re not getting 1-2 portions of oily fish a week (opt for an algae oil variety if vegan) and magnesium bisglycinate may help reduce symptoms such as restless legs and anxiety. 

Menopause and Protein

Power up your plate with plenty of protein. Here are just some of the benefits:  

• Makes you feel full 

• Helps keep blood sugar levels stable 

• Helps stop cravings 

• Essential for building lean body mass and muscle 

• Essential for immune health 

• Aids in recovery and healing
   

Building blocks for your feel good neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine, adrenaline)      

To make things super simple, aim for 20-30g of protein per meal or roughly a palm-sized portion ie. 1 chicken fillet, 1 salmon steak, 1/2 block of tofu, 3 eggs. For recipe inspiration, check out my Instagram feed @emma.bardwell, there are lots of high protein, high fibre recipes on there. 

I hope that gives you a little flavour of the kinds of tools available to you in peri and post menopause. Don’t forget there’s also hormone therapy and lots of non hormone based medications too. For a much more detailed insight into all of this, check out my book The Perimenopause Solution or visit my website www.emmabardwell.com  

September has arrived, bringing with it thoughts of back-to-school, setting new intentions, and establishing fresh routines. We’re the first to admit that during the summer, our skincare habits can sometimes fall by the wayside. Whether it’s forgetting to apply our Klira for a night or using someone else’s SPF that isn’t quite right for our skin while on the go, our routines can become a bit neglected. This month, we’re committed to putting a proper skincare routine in place—one we can stick to for the rest of the year. 

If you have your Klira Special, you are already doing the absolute best you can for your skin. The Klira special is personalised to you, and contains the most potent, most evidence-based ingredients to help you achieve healthy, clear skin. Armed with your Klira, the rest of your skincare routine can be pared back and simple, but it is still important. Here is how to build your personalised skincare routine around Klira. 

Skincare Routine Basics
You are pretty much one and done with Klira in terms of actives, but there are a few things you will need to supplement your skincare routine. And if we strip it back to the bare minimum, you will also need 1) a sunscreen 2) a cleanser 3) a moisturiser, and here’s why. 

1. 1. 1. Sunscreen
         The best thing you can do for your skin is protect it from UV rays from the sun. Stating the obvious, UV radiation is.. radiation. Radiation creates free radical damage, degrades your collagen to accelerate skin ageing, including making your skin more fragile and creating wrinkles. It also stimulates production of pigment in your skin, leading to an uneven complexion with age spots. It is the number one driver of a condition called melasma, which creates patches of dark marks across the centre of your face. Finally, your Klira Special may include ingredients that renew your skin’s surface, and that fresh skin should be protected from the sun.
         
         Choosing the right sunscreen: this can be a monumental task, but taking the time to find your perfect match is worthwhile. The best sunscreen is one that is broad spectrum (UVA & UVB) and SPF50 (SPF30 will do if you are not prone to hyperpigmentation, and that ends up being the one you love). People with oilier skin types often prefer gel-based or mattifying sunscreens, and people with normal to drier skin usually prefer something much more hydrating. In the warmer months you may like to skip moisturiser and rely on the hydration from the sunscreen alone, whereas in the winter you may want to layer with a moisturiser. Finally, if you are someone who wears foundation you may want a sunscreen primer. So there are many variables to choosing the perfect sunscreen depending on your skin size and habits, but we can help guide you.
          
      2. Cleanser
         It is really important to wash your face – by the end of the day you will have particles of pollution, food, excess oil, makeup, sunscreen and dirt on your skin. People touch their face throughout the day, and their face is constantly exposed to the environment. This can lead to imbalances and congestion in the skin. It is important to thoroughly wash off the day and have a clean canvas before you apply your Klira special. It is also a good idea to wash your face in the morning, to make sure you have washed off your Klira and can apply your morning skincare routine. 
         
         Choosing the right cleanser: Again, this will vary by your skin size, personal preference and how much make-up you wear. For those who wear a lot of make-up sometimes a balm, oil cleanser or micellar water is required as a first cleanse, followed by a second cleanse. This ensures everything is properly removed and you are left with a clean face. For most people a single cleanse is sufficient. We have lots of cleansers we love at Klira, so we can recommend something no matter what consistency you like (milk, gel, oil, cream, balm.. you name it!) and at different price points. We tend to recommend gentle, fragrance-free cleansers in order to avoid any sensitivities or allergies developing. If you have a cleanser you love that works for you, that is perfect, and if in doubt you can email us and we can confirm it works with your Special. 
          
      3. Moisturiser
         A moisturiser works to reinforce your skin barrier; it adds an extra layer of protection and infuses hydration into your skin. Active ingredients can be strong, and it can take time for your skin to adapt to them. Initially this may lead to some sensitivity and dryness. Additionally, seasonal changes throughout the year and as we age, our skin naturally gets drier and more fragile, requiring the help of a moisturiser. Have you ever heard people say if you wait until you are thirsty to drink, that means you are already dehydrated? Well it is similar with skin. If you wait until your skin feels tight and flaky to moisturiser, it is already dehydrated. 
         
         Choosing the right moisturiser: The aim of a moisturiser is to offer hydration, improve elasticity and support the skin barrier. As such, some of the best ingredients are ceramides, hyaluronic acid, shea butter, petroleum jelly, urea, colloidal oat, glycerin, and cholesterol and other fatty acids.  Moisturisers come in different consistencies and can feel like lotions, creams, ointments and balms. These will appeal to individuals depending on taste and their skin’s sebum balance. One thing to look out for is that some moisturisers will have active ingredients such as acids or retinols in them; you want to avoid these are as your treatments are all contained in your Klira special and are far more efficient and potent that anything available over the counter.  

Enhance your skincare routine
People often email us with advice about extras, such as serums or masks they like to use. When you are first starting out with Klira we recommend a minimum routine; we want to make sure you adjust to the potent ingredients as seamlessly as possible. We also know from experience that complicated routines often lead to trouble: irritation, allergies and congestion. A lot of the extra products aren’t really necessary; we got you covered with Klira. Once you are established on your special, if you there is something you want to add in, you can always ask us.  

A popular request is a Vitamin C serum in the morning. A Vitamin C serum is a great choice for those wanting extra free radical protection and rejuvenation. Vitamin C can help promote collagen growth, enhance anti-oxidant defences and even skin complexion. With those with very sensitive skin, it might be irritating. There are a variety of different Vitamin C forms, and not all are created equal. If a Vitamin C serum suits your skin size and your goals, then it might be the one extra thing to add in.  

To help you build your bespoke skincare routine, we make recommendations based on your skin size, which you can find in your Klira profile and on our website. You can also reach out to us directly with any questions, and can send us links or photos of your products to check if they are a good fit. We are also very keen to hear feedback on any products you feel have worked for you, so we can share them with other Klira customers who have the same skin size.  

By Dr Cristina Psomodakis  

Klira Personalised Skincare and Altruist Sunscreen have teamed up to explain how our products work in harmony with each SkinSize. Discover your SkinSize and see which SPF is recommended by the only suncare brand founded by a skin cancer surgeon and Consultant Dermatologist.

SkinSize™ /01 — Unpredictable
This SkinSize is particularly tricky, often presenting with a range of sensitivities. Managing one issue can sometimes exacerbate another, making it challenging to maintain balance.   
Risks: Hyper-sensitivity, Flushing, Acne, Rosacea, Hyperpigmentation, Melasma, Seborrhoeic dermatitis   
Goals: Protect the skin barrier, prevent sebum blockages, tackle uneven pigmentation, and prevent future damage.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Face Fluid because it is lightweight, broad-spectrum coverage (ultra-high UVA protection PPD52) that suits a variety of skin types and is designed with sensitive skin in mind. 

SkinSize™ /02 — Adaptable
With a strong skin barrier but prone to excess sebum and blocked pores, SkinSize™ 02 can develop brown marks after spots or injury.   
Risks: Acne, Hyperpigmentation, Melasma, Perioral dermatitis, Seborrheic dermatitis   
Goals: Treat effectively through the strong barrier, prevent sebum blockages, and address uneven pigmentation.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Face Primer because it is particularly suited for people with excess sebum. It is non greasy and provides excellent broad spectrum UV protection. 

SkinSize™ /03 — Keep Safe
This SkinSize requires careful management due to its sensitivity and tendency for excess sebum production. Certain products can lead to inflammation, complicating treatment.   
Risks: Acne, Early skin ageing, Rosacea, Seborrheic dermatitis   
Goals: Prevent sebum blockages, optimise the skin barrier, and protect against future damage.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Face Fluid because lightweight, broad-spectrum coverage (ultra-high UVA PPD52 protection) that suits a variety of skin types and is designed with sensitive skin in mind. 

SkinSize™ /04 — Easy Breezy… as long as you remember the SPF
Generally easy to manage, SkinSize™ 04 is primarily affected by blocked follicles due to excess sebum. Regular SPF is essential to maintain its health.   
Risks: Acne, Early wrinkles, Seborrhoeic dermatitis   
Goals: Use SPF diligently to prevent early ageing and manage sebum production.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Face Primer because it is particularly suited for people with excess sebum. It is non greasy and provides excellent broad spectrum UV protection. 

SkinSize™ /05 — Complicated
Characterised by sensitivity, dryness, and a tendency for hyperpigmentation, SkinSize™ 05 requires a delicate balance of hydration and barrier strengthening.   
Risks: Eczema, Hyperpigmentation, Flushing, Ingredient sensitivity, Early wrinkling, Rosacea, Melasma, Perioral dermatitis   
Goals: Hydrate and moisturise without irritation, strengthen the barrier, and protect against inflammation and hyperpigmentation.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Face Fluid or Altruist SPF50 Sunscreen Cream (both ultra-high UVA protection PPD52). The Face Fluid is a more lightweight, so if you are layering with makeup, moisturiser or serum this is the one for you; the SPF50 Cream is slightly richer and for those with drier skin tendencies or who want a more hydrating sunscreen. 

SkinSize™ /06 — Parched
Prone to dryness and sensitivity, SkinSize™ 06 needs careful hydration and protection against hyperpigmentation.   
Risks: Eczema, Hyperpigmentation, Ingredient sensitivity, Rosacea, Perioral dermatitis, Melasma   
Goals: Hydrate deeply, strengthen the barrier, and treat inflammation while preventing further damage.   
Your recommendation is the Altruist SPF50 Sunscreen Cream because is features a very hydrating formula, alongside broad spectrum UV coverage. 

SkinSize™ /07 — Hyperactive
With fluctuating cellular activity, SkinSize™ 07 often experiences dryness, hyperpigmentation, and collagen breakdown.   
Risks: Hyperpigmentation, Solar lentigines, Early ageing, Melasma   
Goals: Ensure proper sun protection and treat areas of hyperpigmentation.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Face Fluid and Altruist SPF50 Sunscreen Cream. The Face Fluid is more lightweight, so if you are layering with makeup, moisturiser or serum this is the one for you; the SPF50 Sunscreen Cream is slightly richer and for those with drier skin tendencies or who want a more hydrating sunscreen. 

SkinSize™ /08 — Prized
This SkinSize features low sebum production with strong collagen synthesis but is prone to hyperpigmentation and dryness.   
Risks: Hyperpigmentation, Solar lentigines, Dryness, Dull skin, Melasma   
Goals: Maintain optimal hydration, treat hyperpigmentation, and protect from future damage.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Face Fluid and Altruist SPF50 Sunscreen Cream. The Face Fluid is more lightweight, so if you are layering with makeup, moisturiser or serum this is the one for you; the cream is slightly richer and for those with drier skin tendencies or who want a more hydrating sunscreen. Both provide high factor protection to protect against hyperpigmentation.  

SkinSize™ /09 — Delicate
Sensitive and often dry, SkinSize™ 09 is particularly vulnerable to UV damage and needs nourishing care.   
Risks: Eczema, Solar lentigines, Ingredient sensitivity, Early wrinkling, Rosacea, Perioral dermatitis   
Goals: Hydrate to reduce sensitivity, support collagen synthesis, and prevent inflammation.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Face Fluid and Altruist SPF50 Sunscreen Cream. The Face Fluid is more lightweight, so if you are layering with makeup, moisturiser or serum this is the one for you; the Sunscreen Cream is slightly richer and for those with drier skin tendencies or who want a more hydrating sunscreen. Both provide high factor protection and formulated with sensitive skin in mind. 

SkinSize™ /10 — Gifted
SkinSize™ 10 requires careful control to manage its tendency for flushes and flares, with a focus on maintaining hydration and reducing sensitivity.   
Risks: Eczema, Ingredient sensitivity, Rosacea, Perioral dermatitis   
Goals: Maintain a well-hydrated barrier, protect from future damage, and manage inflammation.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Face Fluid and Altruist SPF50 Sunscreen Cream. The Face Fluid is a more lightweight, so if you are layering with makeup, moisturiser or serum this is the one for you; the Sunscreen Cream is slightly richer and for those with drier skin tendencies or who want a more hydrating sunscreen. Both provide high factor protection (with PPD52 ultra-high UVA protection) and formulated with sensitive skin in mind. 

SkinSize™ /11 — Fortunate
This SkinSize™ boasts a strong barrier but can be prone to dryness, often unnoticed. It’s important to keep it well-protected for the future.   
Risks: Solar lentigines, Dryness, Early wrinkling, Adult female acne, Early rosacea   
Goals: Keep the skin hydrated, support collagen, and protect against future damage.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Sunscreen Cream because it comes in a lovely hydrating formula to help nourish the skin, alongside its fantastic broad spectrum UV coverage (PPD52).  

SkinSize™ /12 — The Jackpot
Typically problem-free, SkinSize™ 12 has a strong barrier and good collagen production but may suffer from dryness if neglected.   
Risks: Poor absorption of active ingredients, Dryness, Complacency with SPF, Adult female acne   
Goals: Address dryness, optimise hydration, and protect against future damage.   
Your recommendation is Altruist SPF50 Cream because it comes in a lovely hydrating formula to help nourish the skin, alongside its fantastic broad spectrum UV coverage (ultra-high PPD52).

You may have heard talk of the EU retinol ban and wondered what it means for your Klira Special. Rest assured, your Klira is safe!

Vitamin A is an amazing ingredient in topical skincare, but there’s often confusion around its different forms. Tretinoin (also known as Retinoic-Acid) is the gold standard of Vitamin A and has always been available only by prescription in the UK. It’s the most well-evidenced retinoid approved for the treatment of photodamage and acne, which in turn has many other skincare benefits. That’s why we use it in our Klira Specials.

Tretinoin changes how a cell functions by speeding up the turnover of older cells and encouraging newer skin cells to divide more rapidly, building up the layers of the epidermis and thickening it through cell proliferation at the top level. It also increases the production of hyaluronic acid, keeping the skin more plump. Additionally, it stimulates collagen production and importantly inhibits the breakdown of collagen. Tretinoin is also crucial in reducing inflammatory pathways in the skin that can contribute to acne and rosacea.

Ultimately, Tretinoin needs to be administered under the guidance of medical professionals. This is the team we have at Klira.

The EU retinol regulations target over-the-counter cosmeceutical retinol. While retinol is not as powerful as Tretinoin, incorrect use of the product can cause damage and irritation to the skin. The EU’s new regulations are aimed at ensuring consumers do not have access to an ingredient that can cause undue risk without medical guidance. We welcome these regulations. Too often, we have new customers coming to us with damaged skin barriers due to the incorrect use of products and following trends.

At Klira, we’re serious about your skin and feel passionately about having medical professionals who can navigate the best ingredients for you. Unlike off-the-shelf skincare, your Klira Special formula is carefully dosed and controlled by our team of Dermatologists to ensure your skin receives the most optimised ingredients bespoke to your skin’s needs.

Dr. Emma Craythorne

By Dr Cristina Psomadakis

What is Perioral Dermatitis? 

You might think little red pus-filled bumps around your chin and mouth means acne, but in fact you could have a condition known as perioral dermatitis. Perioral dermatitis, also called periorificial dermatitis, is often mistaken as acne, or even a rash requiring steroids, but the treatments are quite different! 

Understanding perioral dermatitis 

It primarily affects the areas around the mouth, nose, and sometimes the eyes and causes red, bumpy, and often itchy or burning patches and bumps (papules and pustules). No one quite knows what causes perioral dermatitis, but here are some common triggers you should be aware of: 

1. Topical and inhaled steroids. People who require steroid inhalers for conditions like asthma can get perioral dermatitis, and sometimes people are incorrectly prescribed topical steroids when the condition first starts, which in fact can make it worse.  
2. Fluoride in toothpaste and mouthwashes. Some people find their perioral dermatitis improves when the switch to fluoride-free oral hygiene products.  
3. Heavy occlusive cosmetic products. Very thick, greasy facial products can make it worse in some.  
4. Genetics can make you more prone to it. 

Basic skincare tips for perioral dermatitis 

The good news is that there are treatments available! The absolute key is to make sure to get the diagnosis correct and identify the condition correctly. At Klira we can assist with identifying and treating perioral dermatitis. Here are the main steps in managing perioral dermatitis: 

1. It is crucial to recognise and then avoid your triggers 
2. Use gentle, fragrance free skincare and a simple routine without too many products 
3. You may require prescribed medical therapy; this can include topical or oral antibiotics 
4. Resist the urge to pick or pop your spots 
5. Protect your skin from harsh weather conditions  
6. Manage stress levels 

Perioral dermatitis can be challenging to experience and manage but is a treatable condition with the right approach. Understanding your triggers and symptoms, along with adhering to a tailored treatment plan, can lead to significant improvement and  Klira are here to help. 

Further research on perioral dermatitis 

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40257-014-0067-7  

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jocd.14060 

Every skincare product starts degrading once it’s opened. Too often we can find ourselves acting as if every bottle contains a perfect, unchanging supply. 

And worse, some companies like for us to think this way. There are plenty of watered-down products that don’t deliver on real ingredients. 

One culprit behind ineffective skincare products is time.

But there’s a way that we can learn to work with it. It comes down to understanding actives in skincare products and how to use them before we lose them. 

What are actives in skincare? 

In skincare, an ‘active’ ingredient is the most potent part of the formulation. It’s the element that’s meant to target a particular concern. 

Some examples of active ingredients would be Vitamin A for anti-ageing, or ceramides for moisturising.  

The word ‘ingredient’ is helpful to getting the most effective skincare products. Because as with food ingredients, skincare formulations can go bad too. 

How to know if the actives in my skincare are working? 

The most effective actives are as fresh as possible. However, many skincare products don’t come with a clear expiration date.  

Some product containers will have a PAO (period after opening) label. This symbol will tell you how long you have to use up the product. For example, ‘12M’ would mean the product is good to use for 12 months. 

Active ingredients are sensitive to light and heat, and will degrade over time without proper storage. Sometimes a smell or change in colour means that the active ingredients are no longer good.

Aside from that, there aren’t many ways to know that something’s ‘off’. But even before expiry, plenty of people aren’t getting the best use from their products.  

Most skincare formulations expire faster than you might think. One study that examined retinoids found that almost all tested products had degraded by up to 80% within 6 months. 

When you go to a restaurant, you’d trust that every ingredient was prepared carefully and immediately. With skincare, it’s a little more difficult since we can’t see the ‘kitchen.’  

Even with the highest-quality skincare, it’s only a matter of time before it goes bad. Getting the best out of your products means taking expiry as seriously as you do with your food. 

Ensuring peak potency in the Klira Special 

At Klira, we have a plan to make sure you’re not putting weak, watered-down products into your routine. 

The Klira Special has a formula to ensure potency: Ingredient x Dose x Base. 

The ingredients are the Special’s powerful skincare actives. These are the parts of the formulation that directly address your personalised skincare goals and concerns. 

The dose is a carefully calibrated method to add more actives, bit by bit. As you continue with a new Klira Special each month, the right ingredients will be sprinkled in to customise your treatment. 

And the base is the luxurious mixer that brings all the actives together. Just like an excellent chocolate seamlessly blends cocoa, milk, and sugar, the Klira Special’s base is the silky, lotion-like element that binds together the formulation’s different ingredients. 

We don’t create formulations en masse, and we don’t intend them to be one-size-fits all. Instead, each Klira Special is unique and evolving. It’s individually packaged and shipped out while it’s fresh. 

There’s no time (or money) to waste on ineffective, low-grade formulations. We don’t want you to spend on skincare that’s halfway to its expiration date. 

The Klira Special is designed for skincare that’s specific, not general. It aims to promote health, not just surface looks. 

What goes on your face should be fresh. At Klira, we’re creating those meticulous formulations for radiant results. 

SOURCES

• Retinoid stability and degradation kinetics in commercial cosmetic products 
  • • https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jocd.13852?af=R 
• Dating of cosmetics 
  • • https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-labeling/shelf-life-and-expiration-dating-cosmetics 
• What are active ingredients? 
  • • https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0927776522003599 
    • For this purpose, cosmetic industries use active ingredients with multifunctional properties [4], [5], [6], [7] (antioxidant, anti-aging, photo-protective, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, …). However, these compounds are generally sensitive to various external factors such as light, temperature, oxygen and pH [5], which can lead to their degradation.  

The beauty industry has plenty to say about addressing midlife skin concerns. In recent years, there’s been a surge in products that claim to fix symptoms associated with perimenopause and menopause. 

It’s natural for our skin to change over time. But this doesn’t always mean we need to revamp our skincare routines. 

We’re going to shed light on the skin changes you can expect during this transformative stage – and why ‘menopause-specific’ products are no silver bullet. 

Understanding the menopause and your skin 

Perimenopause and menopause affect skin just as they do every other part of your body. Oestrogen plays a vital role in maintaining healthy skin. It stimulates the production of oils and hydrating substances like ceramides, sebum, and hyaluronic acid, which protect and moisturise the skin.  

As oestrogen levels decline, skin becomes less capable of retaining moisture. This leads to the common skincare concerns of midlife: dryness, flakiness, and compromised skin barrier integrity. Additionally, the reduction in collagen production may result in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

Menopause affects everyone differently. While many women experience dry skin, others will find sudden oiliness and acne. A drop in oestrogen levels leads to a relatively higher ratio of male hormones – which can trigger flare-ups. 

 

Skin beyond the face 

Skin is your largest organ, and what’s on your face makes up about 3% of it. The rest of your skin is equally affected by menopause. 

Areas like the hands, lower legs, back, and genitals can experience changes during this stage. Ageing skin becomes more fragile, which is exacerbated by lowered oestrogen. Over time, you could become more prone to bruising, and notice that wounds heal more slowly. 

Do I need skincare products specific to menopause? 

Products marketed for ‘menopausal skin’ are everywhere these days. Despite skin changes during menopause, we can assure you that any radical skincare reinvention isn’t needed. Menopause is not a skin type! 

You may want to consider small changes to boost collagen or reduce some signs ageing. In that case, bespoke skincare like the Klira Special may help. 

The key is ingredients, not marketing. Stay focused on products’ active ingredients, and what benefits they offer, to complement what you’re already using. 

​​​Klira offers a personalised skincare approach to, with precise prescription formulations tailored to your skin’s unique needs. Our advanced ​​SkinSize™ test and dermatology team help create a custom skincare regimen to promote optimal skin health, regardless of your life stage. 

 

Summer is long gone, but now isn’t the time to start slacking on SPF application. SPF isn’t just about preventing sunburn in hot weather. It’s also meant to protect your skin from premature ageing and the risk of skin cancer. 

Daily SPF use is recommended for everyone. However, there’s some nuance to the kind of products you’ll need, depending on your SkinSize™. We’ll go over how to find the best SPF for you, and how to ensure your skin stays healthy and protected all year long. 

How do you apply SPF properly? 

Apply SPF first thing in the morning. You need about one teaspoon of SPF to cover your face, neck and decolletage. 

To reduce pilling and get a more even coverage, Dr Emma, Consultant Dermatologist and Founder of Klira, recommends applying your SPF in two layers. Simply apply the first layer, wait for it to absorb, and then apply the second layer.  

This way, you can go about your day without having to reapply SPF over your make-up. (Unless you’re outside all day or sweating; then it’s time to add another layer.) 

How to find a good quality SPF? 

We know that an intensely saturated personalised skincare market can make it hard to find the right products (exactly why we created Klira). 

To get the right product, Dr Emma breaks down some key signs of a quality SPF in the video below: 

How does sun damage affect your SkinSize™? 

SkinSizes™: 01 / 02 / 03 / 04 / 05 / 06 / 09 / 10 

These SkinSizes™ are prone to having a weak skin barrier. UV radiation from the sun is more likely to trigger inflammation and redness in your skin. If at first it seems the sun is clearing your skin, just wait – it will actually be making it worse! 

After UV radiation exposure, your skin can also experience a sensitivity to chemicals, known as photosensitisation. At this point, products like perfumes or fragranced skincare might cause irritation. 

SkinSizes™: 07/ 08/ 

Your SkinSize™ has a greater ability to tan – which can cause problems down the line. 

Excess sebum and pigmentation make the skin appear healthy and p 

rotected earlier on. But with age, photodamage from the sun will become more visible. 

You might notice these signs starting with a sensitivity to certain sunscreens. Without adequate SPF protection, you’ll start to get an uneven skin tone and wrinkles. 

​​​Your Skinsize will also have a tendency to dark spots, melasma and other forms of uneven pigmentation with UV exposure. This is all down to how your body produces melanin. Regularly applying a good quality, broad spectrum SPF can significantly reduce your risk of all these skin concerns. 

SkinSizes™: 11 / 12 

Your SkinSize™ has low sebum and less natural protection against UV light. As a consequence, your skin’s collagen is more likely to become damaged. 

Compared to other SkinSizes™, yours is at earlier risk of photodamage, fine lines, and wrinkles. Regular use of an SPF is critical to protecting your skin. 

However, most SPF products will work well with your skin, keeping it hydrated and protected from harmful UV damage. 

Extra tips from the Klira Dermatology team 

• For those with darker skin tones, avoid SPFs with a lot of zinc oxide or titanium oxide. These can have an unwanted ‘chalky’ effect on your skin. 
• If you have a lighter skin tone, avoid tinted sunscreens. The different filters may not be tolerated by your skin type. 

Winter is officially here, out summer wardrobes are packed away and we’re reintroducing our sweaters to the world. 

And it’s not just our wardrobes undergoing a transformation. 

During the cooler months, our skin faces its own set of challenges. Chilly air plus dryness from indoor heat can wreak havoc. In the winter you may find your skin feeling dry, tight, or even painfully cracked. 

Here we’ll delve into the intricate relationship between cold weather and your skin, cover the science behind those changes, and provide essential cold-weather tips and remedies based on your SkinSize™. 

(Don’t know your SkinSize™ yet? Find it ​here.) 

Read on for methods to keep your skin radiant and healthy in any weather. Say goodbye to winter skin woes and embrace the season with a glowing, well-nourished complexion. 

First, let’s talk all things skin barrier. 

The skin barrier is made up of the outermost cell layer of your skin (aka the stratum corneum). It’s comprised of dead skin cells that are compacted together with ceramides and cholesterol, creating a tight surface. The first layer of cells protects the inner cells from the outside world. 

The skin barrier serves a dual purpose: shielding us from external irritants and preventing the loss of precious moisture that would otherwise evaporate from our skin. 

A good gauge for your skin barrier’s health is the front of your legs. Are they cracked and dry? 

Don’t worry if they are – plenty of people experience this in the winter. It can happen if you forget to moisturise, or if you take a hot shower after coming in from the cold. 

If there’s dryness in the skin on your legs, trust that it’s the same for your face. The skin on your face is extra sensitive to harsh environmental factors, which is why moisturising is so important! 

Most people need to increase their moisturiser use during winter. That goes double if you spend more time outside or live near the sea, where it’s windier.  

If you normally use a light lotion, it might be a good idea to upgrade this to a richer cream moisturiser. Make sure it has ceramides and cholesterol to restore your skin’s barrier. 

What does this mean for your SkinSize™? 

SkinSizes™: 01 / 03 / 05 / 06 / 09 / 10 

If you have one of these types and are prone to acne or rosacea, expect flare-ups during winter. These SkinSizes™ are more sensitive to extreme temperature changes, which triggers an inflammatory response. 

Simply moving from cold weather outside into a hot room can change the vasodilation of your skin. This will lead to more flushing.  

To keep flare-ups at bay, use lots of moisturiser and layer up while outside. When inside, try to keep your distance from the infrared heat that can come from heating systems. 

SkinSizes™: 02/, 04/ 

These are drier skin types, which means switching to a rich moisturiser is best. To avoid clogged pores and ensure maximum hydration, try for creams with humectants rather than occlusive agents. 

At night time, a high quality cleanser is a must. Clogged pores mean that you’re likely using the wrong products. 

If you have acne or rosacea, it won’t necessarily get worse in winter. But like some other SkinSizes™, you may feel the effect of temperature changes. Extreme cold or heat, especially from indoor heating, can cause flushing or trigger flare-ups. 

SkinSizes™: 07/, 08/, 11/, 12/ 

Even with your strong skin barrier, lower sebum levels can lead to an inflammatory response from extreme temperature changes. 

Extra moisturiser and cozier winter layers will keep you protected indoors and out. And don’t get too close to that radiator! 

How else to have healthy skin during winter? 

Here are some extra tips from the Klira dermatology team on how to keep your skin happy during the colder months: 

1. If your skin is stinging or tender, stop using active products. Increase your moisturiser use and ensure that you are cleansing the skin properly before going back to active treatments. 
2. Cover up with hats and scarves – but look out for itchy fabric or restrictive material, and remove when indoors. 
3. Avoid any skincare that contains alcohol, especially exfoliants. 
4. Never use a physical exfoliant, no matter what the season. 
5. Prioritise silk as the material for least irritation (silk pillowcases are particularly helpful).