Women’s Month: Understanding the most common skincare concerns affecting South African women today

Women’s Month is an opportunity to celebrate the resilience, diversity and strength of South African women. It’s also a chance to acknowledge the skincare challenges that South African women experience throughout their lives.

Our country’s unique climate, high UV exposure, diverse skin tones, pollution levels and lifestyle factors all contribute to the health and appearance of our skin. From hormonal changes and pregnancy to sun exposure, stress and the demands of balancing work, family and personal wellbeing, our skin often tells the story of our lives.

This August, we’re putting the spotlight on the most common skincare conditions and concerns experienced by women in South Africa. But rather than striving for unattainable perfection, our conversation is shifting towards healthy, resilient skin that reflects confidence at every age.

1. Hyperpigmentation

Possibly the most common skincare concern in South Africa, hyperpigmentation is particularly prominent among women with medium and deeper skin tones.

South Africa has one of the highest UV indexes in the world, and the sun’s UV rays are the leading cause of hyperpigmentation. Unfortunately it’s not the only cause; hormonal shifts during pregnancy and menopause are also to blame. Plus, if you are prone to acne or breakouts, eczema or experience insect bites, you may experience post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation once the lesion has healed.

Hyperpigmentation is not a simple concern to treat, and it requires a holistic approach. Applying a broad-spectrum SPF every day, avoiding the sun during peak hours and covering up with a hat, sunglasses and loose clothing is essential – even during winter. Topical skincare products containing vitamin C may help brighten the skin, promote a more even skin tone and offer much-needed antioxidant protection. Professional treatments such as chemical peels, laser therapy and microneedling may also help you achieve a more even complexion.

Try: Biomedical Emporium Vitamin C Concentrate and Biomedical Emporium Complexion Corrector Cream.

2. Adult acne

Acne is no longer just a teenage problem. Many women in their 20s, 30s, 40s and beyond experience breakouts linked to hormones, menstruation, menopause and stress. It is believed that between 12% and 40% of adult South African women experience acne at some point in their lives (source).

It is important to determine the cause of the acne before embarking on a treatment programme. In some cases of hormonal acne, going on – or off – the contraceptive pill may be the solution. Acne that is caused by menopause may be treated with hormone replacement therapy medication. These options should be discussed with your doctor to determine if they are right for you.

In terms of lifestyle, it’s important to practice good skincare hygiene. Change your pillowcase regularly, clean and disinfect your cellphone daily, and try to avoid touching your face. Topical products that contain retinol (vitamin A), niacinamide, tea tree oil and salicylic acid are great options to help minimise and heal breakouts.

Try: Biomedical Emporium Anti-Acne Serum.

3. Sun damage

South Africa is known for its fantastic weather and abundant sunshine, but because our UV index is high and we spend a lot of time outdoors, it is very common for women to develop sun-induced skin damage. Overexposure to the sun may lead to hyperpigmentation, premature skin ageing, uneven skin texture or a “leathery” appearance, as well as skin cancer.

While it’s important to be sun savvy and take precautions such as covering up and staying indoors during peak hours, sunscreen is still your most important weapon when it comes to protecting your skin against the sun. Choose a formula that offers broad-spectrum protection (meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays) and apply it every single day. You also need to reapply if you sweat, swim, or spend time outdoors.

Try: Biomedical Emporium Translucent Day Cream SPF30.

4. Dryness and dehydration

South Africa’s climate varies drastically, with each region experiencing its own version of the four seasons. Regardless of where you live, dry winters, low humidity and wind during the colder months are known to lead to dry and dehydrated skin. Indoor heating is also to blame, as it further dries out the air. Many of us end up with flaking, sensitive, dull or tight skin.

When it comes to replenishing lost moisture in the skin, barrier repair is essential, not only to ensure the moisture penetrates deep into the skin, but also to prevent it from escaping. Look for skincare products containing ceramides, hyaluronic acid and glycerine.

Try: Biomedical Emporium Forté and Biomedical Emporium Périphérique.

5. Sensitivity

Women around the world are reporting increased skin sensitivity, and South Africa is no different. There are many contributing factors, including over-exfoliation, using products not suitable for your skin, environmental pollution, harsh skincare ingredients and fragrances, stress, and the weather.

Skin sensitivity may manifest as itchiness or discomfort, redness, flakiness, tightness, dryness, and even stinging or burning. When it comes to easing sensitivity, it’s very important to stop using skincare products containing potentially irritating ingredients like alcohol, fragrances and essential oils.

Take a break from exfoliation and harsh active ingredients, and focus instead on gentle cleansing, followed by a moisture-boosting serum and moisturiser to ease discomfort, replenish moisture, and restore the skin’s barrier. Oftentimes sensitivity flares up because the skin’s barrier is weakened or damaged.

Try: Biomedical Emporium Skin Repair Serum.

6. Hair thinning and hair loss

Shifting hormone levels can have a major impact on one’s hair, which is why many women experience hair thinning and hair loss during perimenopause and menopause. During this stage of life, oestrogen and progesterone drop, and androgens increase. These hormonal changes shorten the hair growth phase and shrink hair follicles, leading to thinning across the scalp.

Be as gentle as possible to avoid damaging your hair and to reduce breakage. This means avoiding high heat styling and tight hairstyles, and staying away from harsh chemical treatments.

For topical treatment, there are over-the-counter and prescription options available, and some doctors may prescribe anti-androgen medications or targeted prescription therapies. Consult your medical practitioner or skincare professional to find a solution best suited to your needs.

Try: Biomedical Emporium Scalp Serum.

For more information, visit https://biomedicalemporium.com/.