Doctors urge women to be wary of the marketing surge in menopause products

Key Points:

• Women experiencing menopause and perimenopause symptoms are being targeted by aggressive marketing of various products, including lotions, supplements, and gadgets that claim to alleviate symptoms or reverse aging signs.
• Medical experts advise skepticism toward these products and recommend consulting doctors for evidence-based treatments, as many marketed supplements lack proven effectiveness and some may cause side effects.
• Hormone therapy and nonhormonal prescription medications can help manage symptoms, but not all women are candidates; lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, healthy diet, and avoiding alcohol are also beneficial.
• Dermatologists emphasize the importance of proven skin care methods, such as using retinoids, moisturizers with ceramides, and sunscreen, while cautioning against unproven products like ingestible collagen and some natural botanicals that may cause irritation.
• Support groups and open conversations about menopause are increasing, helping women navigate symptoms and the overwhelming marketing, with an emphasis on medical guidance and self-care during this life stage.