Women transitioning into perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause often experience significant changes in their health, particularly in their skin health, as their hormones start to dramatically fluctuate. While symptoms like hot flushes and mood changes are more commonly discussed, skin changes are actually one of the most visible signs of this stage of life.
To make informed decisions about your skincare, treatments, and overall skin health, it’s first important to understand how these hormonal phases impact your skin. So let’s break it down.
THE STAGES OF MENOPAUSE
Perimenopause: This is the transitional period leading up to menopause. It typically begins in your early 40s but can start as early as 35 and last up to 10 years. This is the period where you will likely experience the greatest changes to your skin as hormone levels, in particular oestrogen and progesterone start to significantly fluctuate before rapidly declining.
Menopause: This stage is confirmed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual cycle and marks the end of reproductive years. It is actually the shortest stage, lasting just one day before you’re considered postmenopausal.
Postmenopause: This is the stage follows menopause and marks the time of your life when hormone levels remain consistently low.
HOW HORMONAL CHANGES DURING MENOPAUSE AFFECT THE SKIN
Hormonal shifts, particularly the decline in oestrogen and progesterone during perimenopause, can directly affect skin structure, function, and appearance. Oestrogen supports collagen production, hydration, elasticity, and skin healing. Progesterone, meanwhile, controls oil production and supports structure. As levels decline, several common skin concerns may develop.
1. Increased Dryness and Dehydration
One of the most common skin concerns during perimenopause and menopause is dryness. Lower oestrogen and progesterone levels reduce the skin’s natural oil production and impair its ability to retain moisture. This can lead to flaky dry patches, rough texture and skin tightness. Skin may feel less comfortable and appear duller than before.
2. Loss of Collagen and Elasticity
Collagen is essential for maintaining firm, plump skin. Research suggests women can lose up to 30% of their skin’s collagen in the first five years after menopause*.
This decline can contribute to:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Sagging skin
- Thinning skin
- Reduced firmness
3. Pigmentation Changes and Sun Damage
Years of cumulative sun exposure can become more apparent during menopause.
Hormonal shifts may exacerbate age spots, uneven skin tone, and hyperpigmentation. Combined with slower skin cell turnover, existing sun damage may become more noticeable.
4. Increased Sensitivity and Redness
Hormonal fluctuations can weaken the skin barrier, making it more reactive to environmental stressors, skincare products, and temperature changes. This may cause:
- Redness
- Irritation
- Rosacea flare-ups
- Itchiness
Women who previously tolerated certain products may find their skin becomes more sensitive during this stage.
5. Adult Acne and Breakouts
For some women, menopause may bring an unexpected return of blemish-prone skin.
While declining oestrogen is a key factor, relative increases in androgen activity can stimulate oil glands and trigger breakouts, enlarged pores and congestion, particularly around the jawline and chin.
HOW TO SUPPORT YOUR SKIN DURING MENOPAUSE
While these hormonal changes are natural, the right skincare and treatments can help support healthy skin. During perimenopause, menopause and postmenopause, aim to:
- Prioritise Hydration
Using skincare products that support hydration can help improve comfort and skin barrier function. Look for ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides and peptides.
- Protect with SPF
Daily sun protection is essential for preventing further pigmentation and collagen breakdown.
- Support Collagen Production
Professional treatments and active skincare ingredients may help address collagen loss. Depending on individual concerns, options may include:
Skin Needling
Chemical peels
Laser treatments (Clear + Brilliant®, Laser Genesis)
Retinoids
Vitamin C
Seek Personalised Professional Skin Advice
Hormonal changes during perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause can bring significant skin changes, from dryness and sensitivity to collagen loss and pigmentation.
With the right skincare approach, professional support, and consistent care, women can navigate this transition with confidence while continuing to prioritise their skin health.
Book a consultation at Artisan to learn what treatments and products may be best suited to you.
* M. Brincat, C.F. Moniz, J.W. Studd, A.J. Darby, A. Magos, D. Cooper. Sex hormones and skin collagen content in postmenopausal women. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed), 287 (1983), pp. 1337-1338