Characterization of skin attributes associated with menopausal stages and fitzpatrick skin types

Summary: Abstract Body: Women are known to experience accelerated visible skin aging between their mid-40s to early 60s due to the physiological changes associated with menopause. Understanding these changes is essential for developing strategies to maintain skin health. Here, we examined various skin biophysical parameters across pre-, peri-, and post-menopause women of all Fitzpatrick skin types to characterize these changes. We analyzed 308 women aged 30-65, categorized into pre-, peri-, and post-menopausal groups. Biometric measurements, including Corneometer, TEWL, Sebumeter, and pH probes, were used to assess changes in skin hydration, barrier function, sebum production, and skin pH. Distinct patterns emerged across menopausal stages: an 8% reduction in forehead moisturization between peri- and post-menopausal groups, a 13% reduction in TEWL between peri- and post-menopausal groups, and a 16% reduction between pre- and post-menopausal groups. Additionally, a significant 3% increase in forehead pH was observed between pre- and post-menopausal groups. Forehead sebum decreased notably between stages, with a 16% reduction between pre- and peri-menopausal groups and a 12% reduction between peri- and post-menopausal groups. Fitzpatrick I-III showed a 35% decline in sebum from pre- to post-menopause, whereas Types IV-VI showed no significant changes. These findings underscore the impact of menopausal transitions and skin types on skin aging, highlighting the necessity for targeted skincare strategies that consider both hormonal stages and Fitzpatrick skin types. Geetha Kalahasti¹ 1. Upstream Research, Mary Kay Inc, Dallas, TX, United States. Clinical Research: Epidemiology and Observational Research