Women experience dynamic body changes through each stage of life, and with those changes, skin issues unique to women can often occur that require specialized care. These conditions include hormonal skin problems, lingering effects of pregnancy and other issues.
Common Skin Issues Women Specifically Deal With
There are a variety of skin issues that women experience at different age levels, including:
Hormonal Acne
Women often experience acne breakouts in adulthood due to hormonal changes. Since these flareups are linked to hormones, breakouts can happen during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopause.
Pregnancy Skin Changes
When pregnant, expecting mothers can notice a variety of skin changes and issues, such as acne, melasma (darker areas of pigmentation on the face), mole changes, spider veins, itchiness, skin tags, rashes and abdomen plaques.
Stretch Marks and Aging Skin
Weight gain during pregnancy can result in stretch marks. These purple or reddish lines can fade over time but can persist in some cases. And with age, women’s skin can become thinner and lose smoothness. And years of sunlight exposure can lead to wrinkles, dry skin, age spots and unfortunately, skin cancer.
Hair Loss
Hair loss in women is more common than you think, with around 75% of women experiencing some form of hair thinning or loss. Hair loss can be caused by low iron levels, stress or abnormal thyroid issues. Hair loss can also be a side effect of PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome). PCOS is associated with high levels of testosterone, which affects hair growth often around the temples and frontal regions of the scalp. This differs from male-pattern baldness which is characterized by a receding hairline. In addition, since PCOS creates extra androgen production, excess hair growth can actually result in places like the face, chest and torso.
Vulvar and Genital Lesions
Vulvar and genital lesions can be common problems and a source of stress. Since the skin in this area is very thin, skin issues like dermatitis, lichen planus and other conditions can present and cause significant itching and discomfort. Genital warts associated with HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) can be irritating and also require ongoing monitoring, as they have been linked to cervical and vulvar cancers.
