In a world where the majority of wellness products promote the prolonging of youth and “turning back the clock,” menopausal or peri-menopausal women can feel (quite justifiably) overlooked. Menopause, the stage of life that happens 12 months after a woman’s last menstrual cycle and occurs when the ovaries start producing less estrogen and progesterone, is a gradual part of the aging process. Though normal, it is still highly stigmatized, particularly in a youth-obsessed society like the U.S. — and as such, menopause, which happens typically around the age of 51, can leave the millions of women who undergo this transition each year feeling frustrated and underserved.
“The menopause experience can be super confusing for many women,” says Hasti Nazem, head of Product and Education at Kindra, a vegan menopause brand and community that focuses on navigating life after this shift. “Some symptoms overlap or don’t even seem obvious. Not to mention education around menopause — how to recognize it and address it — is often not readily available or clear,” she says.
What about those telltale hot flashes? “There are 34 symptoms of menopause, although not every person will experience all of them,” Nazem explains. Why 34? “There are estrogen receptors on every organ in the body, and estrogen plays a role in many physiological mechanisms,” she adds. “When estrogen levels are at an overall marked decline, the hypothalamus, which regulates body temperature, can become dysregulated. Your body attempts to regulate your body heat, and a hot flash or night sweat can be triggered.”
The Best Products for Menopause
What to Consider
When it comes to dealing with a sudden onset of strange symptoms, “Be wary of anything that says, ‘This product will take away all of your problems,’” says Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, MD, an OB/GYN and clinical professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences at Yale University School of Medicine. She says that symptoms fall under two major categories:
- Vasomotor symptoms: This is the category hot flashes and night sweats fall under, along with sleep disruptions, mood swings, irritability, and achiness.
- Genito-urinary symptoms: These include vaginal dryness, aka the very well-marketed symptom of vaginal atrophy. These can lead to issues such as burning or pain during sexual intimacy. Also included here are a changing vaginal pH, as well as shifts in vaginal microflora.
“When possible, look for clinically backed ingredients that take into consideration your need for hormone-free solutions, or if [going] with hormones, to consider your medical history,” offers Nazem. She says that although effective, there are some risks involved with hormone-replacement therapy that you should discuss with your medical provider.
Thankfully, the conversation around menopause has become even more dynamic in recent years, with effective solutions on hand — and women are ready. “Although hot flashes, night sweats, interrupted sleep, irritability, and vaginal dryness are incredibly common, they can vary in severity and are not universal,” assures Dr. Alyssa Dweck, chief medical officer at Bonafide, another menopause essentials forerunner. “Empowering women experiencing menopause with the resources, guidance, and tools they need to make the best decision for them is key,” Nazem adds.
1
For Vaginal Dryness
The Daily Vaginal Lotion and Applicator
“As estrogen levels decline, vulvar tissue can be dry without the same levels of natural lubrication and can feel sensitive,” Nazem says, noting that estrogen is a key player in regulating pH in vulvar and vaginal tissue, as well as in supporting blood flow.
Kindra’s hormone-free vaginal lotion is one of their perennial bestsellers, with reviewers raving that it relieved dryness after only a few days. (“This one works the best,” says one.)
The physician-tested lotion supports the restoration of the vulva and vagina’s moisture barrier in a similar manner as estrogen for a full 24 hours. The secret? Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and omega-rich plant extracts nourish for the long term, while also giving the feeling of natural lubrication.
More: The Best CBD Oils for Less Anxiety, Better Sleep, and Better Sex
2
For Sleep Disruptions
Let Me Sleep Natural Sleep Supplement
“Many women have sleep disruptions — they fall asleep OK, but then wake up 2 hours later and don’t fall back to sleep,” says Dr. Minkin. Nazem concurs: “This is because of the changing levels of cortisol in the body, which during and after menopause may remain higher than baseline and take root as chronic stress.”
This game-changing supplement has magnesium, GABA, and a delayed-release form of melatonin that helps you not just fall asleep, but also stay asleep throughout the night.
This has come to my rescue multiple times, too: As a long-time sufferer of stress-induced insomnia and melatonin veteran (I can handle up to 12 milligrams with no issues), I oftentimes end up fully awake at 3 a.m., already dreading the long day ahead. This is the only melatonin complex that gives me a full, blissful 8 hours, and the GABA really does wonders for anxiety.
This hormone- and steroid-free, plant-based supplement (it’s made of pycnogenol French maritime pine bark extract, L-arginine, L-citrulline, and rosvita rose hips extract) increases blood flow to the vaginal area, and is trusted by over 4,000 doctors. Users report a 75% increase in physical arousal and orgasms by the second month alone.
Though widely known as quintessential in male sexual performance, its importance is equally as crucial for women, too. “It’s often all about blood flow when it comes to the sexual experience,” Dr. Dweck says. “Ristela has been shown in clinical studies to increase blood flow during sex to enhance satisfaction and improve orgasm.”
4
For Mood Swings and Brain Fog
The Meno-Pause Stack
Yummy, sugar-free, blackcurrant-flavored gummies that also provide multi-symptom relief? Sign us up. The Meno-Pause Stack contains a soothing and powerful blend of high-impact anti-inflammatories, adaptogens, and mood regulators that “help you get back to feeling a little more you.”
To wit: Their dose of resveratrol also helps strengthen bones, in addition to improving cognitive function.
Nourished is also made in the U.K., which, according to Dr. Minkin, is key. “My major concern with most of the hot flash over-the-counter products is that we don’t regulate our herbal products in the U.S. So, I tend to recommend European products that you can purchase in the U.S.,” she says.
5
Oral Solution for Hot Flashes
Estrogen-Free Supplements
“Some menopause products may be natural, but continued use can result in side effects such as liver toxicity. One example is the long-term use of Black Cohosh for hot flash relief,” says Nazem.
Dr. Minkin says Remifemin is a hormone-free solution that she can get behind. “Remifemin is made in Germany, where they regulate their herbals — I know exactly how much active black cohosh [you] are getting.”
6
Topical Solution for Hot Flashes
Cool Down Mist
On the outset, a menthol spray might seem like a godsend in the middle of a particularly brutal hot flash or night sweat. It can also, however, be irritating to sensitive or menopausal skin that’s already experiencing fluctuations in pH.
“If you’re looking for a topical solution, look for skin-cooling ingredients that are clinically shown to cool skin without irritation,” Nazem says.
This mist is cooling, calming, and formulated with a clinically studied peptide that’s shown to reduce the intensity of hot flashes, night sweats, and skin redness, all while being menthol-free. It also provides an instant cooling sensation for up to 2 hours.
7
For Thinning Hair
Women's Balance
So far, “Nutrafol’s Women’s Balance is the only clinically formulated hair supplement that addresses the root causes of thinning in menopausal women,” says Dr. Sophia Kogan, M.D., Nutrafol cofounder and chief medical officer — so much so that it’s considered a patented nutraceutical. (These causes include everything from hormonal fluctuations to stress to even nutritional status and changes in metabolism.)
It contains a mix of clinically effective ingredients — namely saw palmetto, ashwagandha, and maca — which synergistically have been proven to improve the growth and quality of thinning hair. Visible hair loss and thinning are arguably one of the more distressing symptoms many women face during this transition, and clinical studies indicated that 100% of women tested showed improvement in growth and density after 9 months.
8
For Leakage
High and Dry Briefs
Women experiencing a loss of bladder control due to menopause finally have the chic solution they deserve. Disposable, odor-eliminating, and designed with fit in mind (no more adult diapers!), these leak-proof undies are also 40% thinner and nine times more absorbent than the competition. They’re literally made to absorb a bladder-full (that’s 1.5 cups) of liquid, while remaining non-bulky around the crotch area ... and, dare we say it, actually look stylish while doing so.
The control-top high waist is also super comfy and doesn’t cut into your midsection — plus, its discreet design is virtually invisible. I tried the panties under my yoga leggings and they looked pretty seamless. (BTW, thighs chafing together from workout sweat? They have a handy solution for that, too.)
9
For Joint Pain
Arnica Hand and Joint Cream
Arnica is beloved for its anti-inflammatory properties: It’s a staple in many aesthetic centers for post-procedural bruising and swelling. Together with shea, coconut, and cocoa seed butter, this soothing cream helps provide relief from those sudden-onset aches and pains brought on by menopausal joint issues.
10
For Painful Sex
Revaree
Revaree contains hyaluronic acid, a natural moisturizer, and provides an applicator-free solution to vaginal dryness that comes in clutch during moments of sexual intimacy.
“It’s a hormone-free, easy-to-use, mess-free ovule inserted vaginally,” says Dr. Dweck.
Continued use significantly increases your body’s moisture, lessening burning and pain from sex.
11
For Dry, Fragile Skin
Le Blue Balm Repair Balm
“The single best thing you can do for your skin is to treat inflammation,” says Valérie Grandury, breast cancer survivor and founder of Odacité, the Cali-based brand with roots in premium French beauty. Le Blue Balm is a multipurpose, superbly restorative balm that melts upon contact with skin and protects it from pollution, free radicals, and all-over dehydration, making it ideal for women dealing with drier, slacker, and thinner skin due to a dip in estrogen.
However, its hero ingredient, blue chamomile, is what makes it a standout: Its high levels of chamazulene effectively calm skin from irritation. Squalane and organic shea butter also help repair inflammation, while keeping crucial moisture locked in. Used at bedtime as a final step in your routine, the balm feels divinely nourishing ... and no, it won’t clog pores.
12
For Sagging Necks
Let's Neck
Fans of this neck and décolléte cream love it so much, it sold out three times! Firming and brightening ingredients (seven types of sodium hyaluronate, plus algae extracts and powerful antioxidants) tighten up any loose, crepey skin via a cooling applicator.
It also reduces age spots and wrinkles, making it a one-two punch against both texture and skin tone changes.
13
For Flat Hair
Lift Off Volumizing and Thickening Mist
This vegan, no-nasty, Leaping Bunny-certified hair texturizer recruits some powerful antioxidants and amino acids to moisturize as it volumizes. In short: It gives fragile strands the care it needs while also providing height and texture. No compromises!
Turkish linden bud moisturizes while forming a protective layer around hair, while Australian wild berries shield from free radicals, preventing further damage while you style or are exposed to the elements.
14
For Undereye Bags and Wrinkles
Revitalize and Firm Eye Cream
Lesser blood flow and collagen production during menopause can thin out skin, which can exacerbate any undereye concerns: Dark circles, lines, and even puffiness or crepe-iness can look more pronounced. We like the firming, nourishing effects of this award-winning eye cream that addresses multiple concerns, like crow’s feet, circles, and puffiness.
Its special sauce? Neolastin complex (Nuflex) helps improve collagen and elastin production in skin, leading to a more supple, lifted eye area.
15
For Dulling Skin
Detox Serum
Nope, you’re not going through second puberty: A wave of breakouts is normal — even expected — during this time of hormonal flux. This best-selling serum contains the brand’s proprietary Pause Complex that helps with collagen production and clears out any breakouts from skin by decongesting pores.
It balances oil while also preventing dryness (the golden mean!) and also brightens, lifts, and tones. It's basically an all-around skin tone savior.
16
For Severe Acne and Collagen Loss
Plasma Treatment
Even with the best will in the world, sometimes, a tweakment is what’s needed. Enter: Plason, a brand-new beauty treatment (it’s popular in South Korea) that’s clinically proven to improve acne, reduce sebum production, and tighten skin.
“It uses plasma to increase skin’s dermal density,” says Simon Mansell, founder of Artemis, which distributes the machines. “As we age, our skin tissue loosens as our collagen structures are emptied and our extracellular matrix is weakened,” he says. (Post-menopausal women can lose approximately up to 30% of collagen in the first 5 years.)
Studies have shown an increase in dermal density after just one treatment, reporting tighter, healthier-looking skin with fewer wrinkles and fine lines. The treatment, which takes less than an hour, is also a phenomenal anti-bacterial, skin-sterilizing approach that removes germs, making it great for acne eruptions. It increases skin’s absorption rate for the next 4 to 6 hours post-procedure, so your serums and moisturizers penetrate deeper. So, there's no downtime or redness, either!
Complete Skin MD offers the treatment in Manhattan in a package of four treatments for $800.
17
For Sparse Brows
Superpower Night and Day Brow Enhancing Duo
Better, Not Younger’s scientifically formulated brow and lash duos have gained quite the buzz over the recent years. Its Superpower Night & Day Brow Enhancing Duo packs quite the punch: Sodium hyaluronate, a vitamin B complex, peptides, fatty acids, and niacinamide all work together to encourage fuller, thicker brows in as little as 2 weeks.
Eunice Lucero-Lee
Senior Editor
Eunice Lucero-Lee is the Senior Editor for Best Products, and is a beauty, astrology, and pop culture obsessive whose work has been featured in publications such as Cosmopolitan, Esquire, The Numinous, and woman&home, among many others.
This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io
