I’m covering two topics, today – why I’ve started using testosterone and, my forever pursuit of “the best skincare”. But first…
Life, Lately
We have lived in our home for thirty-four years. We always thought, once the chicks flew the nest, we would, too. Somewhere smaller, maybe? Or, try a new way of life abroad, somewhere warmer?
Photo by Mauro Lima on Unsplash
Following lots of discussions, some heated, we have decided to stay. We may still move, so time will tell. The house is in dire need of a good old updating. Most of the changes are aesthetic, so no building work needed, thank goodness. We started in the kitchen by putting a lovely wooden floor down, and we have decorated. Then we moved upstairs and did the main bedroom and bathroom. We hired a couple of decorators to help, which was a mistake. They were so unprofessional – resulting in us spending weeks putting right their mistakes! My nickname for them is “Laurel and Hardy”, and that is being kind! Now, we have a very respected painter and decorator coming at the end of September to do the hall and front room. To prepare for this, we will be ripping the hall carpet up and removing the wallpaper – so there’s a lot of work to do. Steady away, as they say.
We have also booked to go to Marrakech to see my youngest son in a few weeks. Kieran will be travelling from the Philippines, with Mhayrine (“My”), which will be quite a journey. I am really looking forward to spending time with them. We visited him in Manila in February. So this will be a new experience and a chance to explore a new city, together. If you’ve been to Marrakech, I’d love to hear your tips in the comments.
HRT Update
Like mum, I began to feel the symptoms of menopause in my mid to late forties. There were the classic symptoms: anxiety, insomnia, brain fog, hot flushes. I also discovered I had an underactive thyroid condition at the same time, which didn’t help. Before getting the diagnosis for both, I thought I had lost my marbles at times. My other half may comment on this, she says, smiling. Menopause is no longer the taboo subject it was during mum’s time. When I first went on HRT, we were encouraged to take it for a short period of time because of reported links to breast cancer. I remember discussing the subject with the practice nurse every time I went along for my three-month prescription. I’ll also mention, back then, that bioidentical (natural) HRT was only available on a private prescription. Things have changed.
I know there’s not a “one size fits all” regarding menopause. But, knowledge is power. Some sail through it with no symptoms while others suffer. Now, most of us are not shy in sharing what we take to relieve menopausal symptoms, whether it be a natural remedy or medication. It simply helps others to make decisions on what may help them.
I currently have a check-up every six months, or so, with Michelle, who is the specialist HRT nurse at my clinic. During my appointment, around nine months ago, we both decided I would give the combined patch, Everol Conti, a try. This patch contains a body-identical (licensed plant-derived) oestrogen, and a synthetic (man-made) progestogen. I take the low dose version twice a week. So far, I am finding this routine so much easier than the one I had before. It is working well for me. I also use oestrogen twice a week to control my vaginal atrophy. The other addition is….
Testosterone
I have recently joined the band of women such as Davina McCall (58), Kate Winslet, (50), Halle Berry (59) and, most recently, Prue Leith (86), who are all happily taking Testosterone.
Women’s testosterone levels peak in their twenties and then they slowly decline until menopause, when they plateau.
Testosterone Sachets
This subject seems to be a bit of a hot potato. Is it because we mainly associate Testosterone with men, muscles and sex? The argy-bargy seems to be whether midlife women should take testosterone at all!!
When doing my research, I found that the specialists/doctors (mainly private) and menopause campaigners say that low doses have a good safety profile as long as blood testosterone levels are monitored and stay within the normal physiological range. The studies say that, as well as boosting low libido, it may also help with bone density, concentration, fatigue and anxiety.
On the other side of the coin, some doctors say that there is nowhere near enough evidence to say testosterone can do any of this – it seems we are in the early stages of the research.
According to the NHS, my lack of libido is the only reason I am prescribed Testosterone!!? It’s not for the brain fog, insomnia or any of the other symptoms it can possibly help with. Apparently, I’m prescribed it more for whether I want sex or not. Something which is way down my list of priorities. I take my testosterone from a small sachet – which I have to admit isn’t the best. It’s fiddly. The pea-sized amount recommended is hard to gauge because it is runny. I then rub it into the tops of my arms or legs, alternating as I go. Apparently, there is no testosterone formulated for women available on the NHS, though we can access gels and creams made for men. I have been told to use my gel, intermittently. And, I have to admit to sometimes forgetting. Then, the gel sachet dries out so I open another and so it goes on.
So, have I noticed any difference apart from my libido? It is still early days for all of the improvements mentioned. But, I feel that I have a tad more energy and a general feeling of betterness, if that makes sense. My mood in general is the same – though my OH may not agree, she says, smiling. I live a relatively healthy lifestyle so I should be feeling good. I am booked in for my second blood test to make sure I am in the safe zone. And, yes, I shall carry on. Davina McCall described testosterone as the “missing piece of the puzzle”. I am fairly new to it and need to be taking it for longer to see the full benefits. I will report back in six months.
Skincare
If you could wave a magic wand over the bits you dislike about your skin, what would it be? Mine is the texture of my skin (open pores and less smooth). We all strive to be “the best version of ourselves”. But, in reality, I’m just pleased if I don’t have that tired, anaemic look (thank goodness for tanning drops). This is especially so when I have had a few late nights off the trot. Then, there are consequences.
My skincare routine is relatively low maintenance. I have always had a fascination with skincare, and I enjoy trying new lotions and potions.
What I Use.
Yes, getting frazzled in the baking sun, years ago, led to age spots developing on my face in my early forties. This galvanised me to step up my game to either fade or remove them, completely.
I am loyal to the products that make a difference. I have learned, throughout, that there is no easy fix in skincare – the changes come over time, so patience is a factor. I stopped putting my face in the sun in my late thirties. Much to the amusement of my family, I wore big hats in the sun and switched to the highest possible SPF. Back then, high-factor suncreams were thick and greasy, usually leaving a ghostly white cast.
The products I experiment with the most are moisturising creams and vitamin C serums. I have a few cheap and cheerful favourites, which I find to be very good. I go for an easy morning and night routine, one that isn’t a lot of fuss. I am mindful of overloading my skin, too, which can lead to breakouts and reactions. Here is a quick rundown of what I use at the start and end of my day. I will also share the gadgets I use afterwards (only two). I’ve cut back on these, too, because I wasn’t seeing an improvement and I didn’t like or enjoy the procedure.
Morning
I wash my hands with a mild liquid soap. Then, I splash my face with lots of icy cold water – mainly to wake me and my face up! Then I use…..
The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2%
What it Does
Lactic Acid is an alpha hydroxyl acid that exfoliates the skin.
This 10% formulation offers mild exfoliation. A milder 5% formula is available if the 10% is too much for your skin.
It reduces signs of inflammation and sensitivity
Results
I find this to have great exfoliation, which my skin benefits from (for dead skin cells). I prefer this slow, steady type of exfoliation to a harsh product done in one go. It all contributes to my skin looking healthier.
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% & Zinc 1% Oil Control Serum
Product Details
A hydrating face serum
Refines pores and improves skin texture.
Lightweight, fast-absorbing skincare serum.
Results
I’ve been using this product, consistently, for five years. I’m really impressed with the results. It is gentle on my skin, absorbs quickly and leaves my skin looking less dry – an effective precursor to my moisturising lotion.
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF50 or Nivea SPF50
I have used both of these SPF 50 lotions for my face for over five years. They really deliver when it comes to sun protection, which is massively important to me. CeraVe is recommended by dermatologists for good reasons. It is an effective barrier which has protected me in the sun’s searing heat, which we have been experiencing in the UK, lately. Both products do not sit heavy on my skin, and they perform just as well as the other 50+ sunscreen I use on my body. They are both five-star products for both protection and as moisturisers, which is why I keep buying them.
Following my exercise, I go over my face with micellar water, then apply more SPF50
Night
Retin-A (Tretinoin)
I’ve used this gold-standard skincare ingredient on and off since 2016. It helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles by increasing the production of collagen. The additional benefits include fading age spots, which it did over time… and it also softens rough patches of skin.
This is a powerful skincare ingredient and must be applied, correctly. Otherwise, it can lead to side effects such as redness, dryness, itching and continuous peeling. It can take a good while to get your skin used to it. Read here how I started to use Tretinoin. You can buy this cream in various strengths, generally starting on the lowest one (0.25%). I have never ventured above the 0.05% strength. As this is a strong prescription-only medicine that can cause severe skin irritation and side effects, it is only available in the UK with a private prescription. Whenever I’ve travelled abroad, I’ve stocked up, there, where it can often be bought over the counter. A warning that, if not used, correctly, this can cause severe skin irritation, so do your research.
Below are my two favourite moisturising creamsone is an old favourite – the Q10 intense by Cien and the new kid on the block is the Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré which is a cult classic. This is a multitasking French pharmacy staple that works well as both a moisturiser and primer. It was created in 1950 by a dermatologist. It is used by makeup artists as a primer and supposedly gives skin a plump, dewy finish. This is my second purchase, and I like it a lot. It adds moisture to my skin, and I also use it as a primer. I like to mix it with a little foundation too for a softer, more natural look.
Gadgets
The Current Body LED Mask.
I won this in mid 2022. It has been one of my best gadgets. I use it for 10 minutes on my face and then my upper chest area around five times a week. With it being old and continually used, the lights are beginning to flicker on the edges, so I may not have it for much longer. Apart from my Retin A, I would say my LED mask has given me the most visible improvements. I may have to drop a few hints on my birthday.
Banish Kit 3.0 “at home” Microneedling.
I love a gadget I can use in the comfort of my own home. I have never had microneedling done in a salon. I got this as part of an Instagram promotion – so if you would like to know more, head over to my page @midlifebeyond
One thing I’ve noticed, after using it, is the fresh pink glow I have – which lasts for a few days.
Overall, my routine has become much simpler over the years. I’ve stopped chasing every new product that appears on social media and, instead, stick with the things that genuinely make a difference to my skin. As always, these are simply the products and treatments that work for me. And, I’d love to know what’s become a permanent fixture in your own skincare routine?
Disclosure
This is not a sponsored post but may contain affiliate links. All costs were covered by me. If you click through to a product, there is no additional cost to you. The small commission I may earn helps support the running costs of my blog.
See you next time, and take care. x
