Sun Damage Prevention for Women Over 40: How I Protect My Skin Through Perimenopause and Menopause

Table of Contents

• Why sun damage matters more after 40
• How hormones change the way our skin reacts to the sun
• Prevention over correction, my skincare philosophy
• Hydration as your first line of defence
• Daily sun protection for face and body
• Repairing and supporting sun-stressed skin
• My simple daily sun-safe routine
• Frequently asked questions about sun damage prevention

Why Sun Damage Matters More After 40

If there’s one thing I wish I’d prioritised earlier, it’s sun damage prevention. As we move through our forties and into perimenopause and menopause, our skin becomes thinner, drier, and slower to repair. The sun damage we may have shrugged off in our twenties shows up far more clearly now.

Sun exposure is one of the leading causes of premature ageing, pigmentation, loss of elasticity and uneven skin tone. And once hormonal shifts begin, skin is less resilient to UV stress.

That’s why prevention, not correction, is the foundation of my skincare routine today.

How Hormones Change the Way Our Skin Reacts to the Sun

Oestrogen plays a key role in collagen production, hydration and skin thickness. As levels decline during perimenopause and menopause, skin becomes more vulnerable to environmental stressors, especially UV radiation.

This can lead to:

1. Increased pigmentation and sun spots
2. Deeper fine lines and wrinkles
3. Chronic dryness and sensitivity
4. Slower healing after sun exposure
5. Sun damage prevention becomes non-negotiable at this stage of life.

Prevention Over Correction: My Skincare Philosophy

I don’t believe in fighting skin. I believe in supporting it.

Preventing sun damage means:

• Strengthening the skin barrier
• Keeping skin deeply hydrated
• Protecting daily with a broad-spectrum sunscreen
• Supporting repair processes gently and consistently

This approach works with your skin, rather than stressing it further.

Hydration Is Your First Line of Defence

Well-hydrated skin is more resilient. Dehydrated skin shows sun damage faster and struggles to repair itself.

One product I use daily is Bioluronic Buzz.
https://thenaturalskincareco.com.au/collections/jane-scrivner-skincare/products/bioluronic-buzz

This bio-fermented hyaluronic acid supports deep hydration and strengthens the skin barrier, helping skin better cope with environmental exposure, including the sun. I apply it morning and night, especially before sunscreen.

Daily Sun Protection for Face and Body

Sun protection isn’t just for beach days. It’s an everyday essential.

For my face, I use Baie Botanique Soleil Facial Sunscreen.
https://thenaturalskincareco.com.au/collections/sunscreen/products/baie-botanique-soleil-facial-sunscreen-70g

It offers broad-spectrum protection while nourishing the skin. I love that it feels comfortable, sits beautifully under makeup, and doesn’t dry my skin out.

For my body, especially arms, chest and legs, I rely on Soleil Body Sunscreen.
https://thenaturalskincareco.com.au/collections/sunscreen/products/soleil-body-sunscreen-110g

It’s easy to apply, absorbs well, and encourages consistent use, which is key when it comes to preventing sun damage.

Repairing and Supporting Sun-Stressed Skin

Even with the best habits, life happens. That’s where gentle repair comes in.

I often recommend the Buff + Nourish Duo for women dealing with sun-stressed, dull or uneven skin.
https://thenaturalskincareco.com.au/products/buff-nourish-duo?_pos=2&_sid=405b80992&_ss=r

This duo gently exfoliates to remove dead skin cells and nourishes the skin barrier, supporting natural regeneration without over-stripping. It’s especially helpful for menopausal skin that needs encouragement, not aggression.

My Simple Daily Sun-Safe Routine

This is what works for me:

Morning

1. Gentle cleanse
2. Bioluronic Buzz for hydration
3. Facial sunscreen
4. Body sunscreen on exposed areas

Evening

• Cleanse thoroughly
• Gentle exfoliation a few times a week
• Nourishing products to support overnight repair

Consistency matters more than complexity.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sun Damage Prevention

1. Is sunscreen still important if I’m indoors most of the day?
Yes. UVA rays penetrate windows and contribute to ageing and pigmentation.

2. Can sunscreen cause dryness during menopause?
Some can. Choosing a hydrating, skin-friendly formula makes all the difference.

3. How often should I reapply sunscreen?
Every two hours when outdoors, and immediately after swimming or sweating.

4. Can sun damage be reversed after menopause?
Some signs can be improved, but prevention is far more effective than correction.

5. Does hydration really help with sun protection?
Absolutely. Hydrated skin has a stronger barrier and recovers faster from UV exposure.

6. Is SPF enough, or do I need antioxidants too?
SPF protects, antioxidants support repair. Using both offers the best results.

Final Thoughts

Sun damage prevention isn’t about fear. It’s about care.

As women over 40 and 50, our skin deserves thoughtful, consistent support. By hydrating deeply, protecting daily, and repairing gently, we can maintain healthy, resilient skin through perimenopause and menopause.

If you’re unsure where to start, start simple. Your future skin will thank you.

With care,
Georgie