in women, this marks the biggest change since adolescence. The menopause, which usually occurs in one's early fifties,
brings a sharp decline in oestrogen production with a concomitant fall in sebum. This makes it easier for water to evaporate,
leading to dry and sometimes flaky skin.
The epidermis continues to atrophy and is now about 20 per cent thiner than in one's teens.
The distribution of fatty cells becomes uneven and the disproportionate number in the lower tissues leads to the emergence of drooping jowls and a heavier chin.
The cumulative effects of sun exposure may manifest themselves in dark, benign patches called solar keratoses.
