Menopause is having a moment in the media. While women have always struggled through the night sweats, hot flashes, brain fog, and changes in mood that come with menopause and perimenopause, we have not always seen so much conversation around the topic. And retailers are paying attention. The market has been flooded by serums, lights, and supplements promising all kinds of relief. So, do these products deliver on their claims, or are they too good to be true?

The simple answer is to be skeptical. If you are interested in a particular remedy, talk to your doctor first. Some products may interact with your current medications or cause unforeseen side effects. Many over-the-counter products marketed to women at this stage of life contain the exact same ingredients as their standard products. Do your research. If a product is backed by studies proving its effectiveness, it may be worth a try but keep your doctor in the loop.

So, what might work? Some women benefit from hormone therapy managed by their physician, but it is not for everyone. Regular physical activity and a healthy diet can help, as weight loss often reduces hot flashes and other symptoms. Limiting alcohol is another good idea during this stage. Consistently using sunscreen can help with the appearance of skin, as well as using a daily moisturizer with retinol (to reduce the appearance of wrinkles) and ceramides (for hydration). Finally, remember that just because a product label says that it is natural or botanical, it does not necessarily make it healthier.