Introduction
When treating menopausal patients, cosmetic practitioners must adopt a specialised approach that considers the unique physiological and emotional challenges of this life stage. Managing expectations and understanding the sensitivities of menopausal skin are essential for achieving patient satisfaction and long-term trust.

 

Patient selection: understanding motivations for cosmetic treatment

Patients may seek cosmetic procedures for various reasons, and for menopausal women, motivations often reflect a desire to regain self-confidence or address visible signs of aging. However, it’s important to explore these motivations thoroughly:

- Internal reasons: Patients who are motivated by a personal desire for self-improvement tend to have a healthier outlook and are generally more satisfied with their results.

- External pressures: Some women may be influenced by societal expectations or personal relationships, leading them to seek cosmetic treatments with unrealistic expectations.

Tip: Engage in open discussions with patients to assess their motivations and ensure they are seeking treatment for well-considered reasons, which can help avoid dissatisfaction with the outcomes.

 

Managing expectations and offering alternatives

Setting realistic expectations is especially important when treating menopausal patients, as their skin is undergoing significant hormonal changes. It is crucial to:

- Communicate openly: Be transparent about the limitations of certain treatments, particularly in terms of reversing the effects of aging. It’s important to emphasise that while cosmetic procedures can enhance appearance, they cannot completely halt, or reverse the natural aging process.

- Explore less invasive options: For patients who may not be ideal candidates for more aggressive procedures, there are various non-invasive options available that may provide satisfactory results without the need for surgery. These treatments can be a more suitable option for patients who are looking for subtle enhancements.  It’s crucial for patients to understand that cognitive changes are also a normal part of menopause.  This awareness can influence motivations and affect perceived outcomes. Increasing patient insight and awareness can help prevent deteriorating well-being related to consultation and post procedural appearance anxiety.

Treating menopausal patients requires a nuanced approach, particularly because cognitive function can be affected during this period.

- Cognitive Changes During Menopause: Menopause can lead to various cognitive changes, including memory lapses, difficulty concentrating, and slower information processing.

- Importance of Setting Realistic Expectations: Patient Understanding: It’s crucial for patients to understand that cognitive changes are a normal part of menopause. This helps in reducing anxiety and frustration and promotes working with individual tailored patient pathways for pre-care and aftercare. 

- Holistic Approach: Combining aesthetic treatments with lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques, can be extremely beneficial for reiterating realistic expectations.

 

Tailored aftercare for menopausal skin

Menopausal skin can be more sensitive and dry, making aftercare a vital component of the treatment process. Patients need to be well-informed about how to care for their skin post-procedure to ensure proper healing and longevity of results.

- Hydration: Emphasise the importance of moisturising and maintaining hydration, as this can significantly improve the skin’s recovery.

-  Sun protection: Menopausal skin is particularly susceptible to sun damage, so it is essential that patients protect their skin from UV exposure, especially after procedures that resurface the skin.

-  Follow-up: Encourage ongoing skin maintenance and psycho-education through regular appointments to ensure long-term satisfaction with their treatments.

 

Knowing when to say no

In some cases, a patient’s requests may not align with the realities of what can be achieved through cosmetic intervention. If a treatment is unlikely to provide the desired results, or if the patient has unrealistic expectations, it’s important to be honest and explain why the procedure may not be suitable.

- Be transparent: Offer alternative options if possible and explain the reasoning behind your decision. This can help build trust and prevent dissatisfaction after the treatment.

- Consider emotional readiness: If a patient is experiencing emotional vulnerability or seeking significant changes driven by impulsive decisions, it may be better to suggest postponing the treatment or referring them for a further consultation before proceeding. Consider using a pre-screening psychological tool that assists collaborative decision making.

 

Conclusion: building trust with menopausal patients

Enhancing cognitive awareness and understanding of menopause can significantly improve perceived outcomes and alleviate appearance-related anxiety. By deeply understanding patients’ needs and providing personalised care, practitioners can help patients feel more in control and less stressed. This compassionate approach fosters long-lasting, positive relationships and ensures satisfying treatment experiences tailored to the sensitivities of menopausal skin and psychology.

 

Article by Kimberley Cairns, BSc (Hons), MSc, GMBPsS

Kimberley Cairns is dedicated to improving mental health, body image, and trauma care within the aesthetic and non-surgical cosmetic sector. Her mission is to ensure safe and ethical practices through robust governance, innovative research, and policy development, all aimed at prioritising patient and practitioner well-being.

Leading the Integrated Practitioners of Aesthetic Wellness, Kimberley emphasises a patient-centered approach to psycho-aesthetic care. Since 2018, she has been active with the Joint Council of Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP), serving in various roles to advocate for patients and enhance care standards in the sector.