Menopause and Your Skin: Understand the Aging Connection
Menopause marks a major milestone in every woman’s life—a natural, biological transition that signals the end of menstruation. But while the conversation often revolves around hot flashes and mood swings, one aspect is often overlooked: How menopause affects your skin.
The truth is, menopause doesn’t just change your hormones—it changes your skin’s structure, function, and appearance. Understanding these changes can help you take proactive steps to keep your skin healthy, resilient, and radiant through midlife and beyond.
How Menopause Triggers Skin Aging
Menopause usually occurs between ages 45 and 55, and during this time, oestrogen levels drop significantly. Oestrogen is a key hormone in maintaining skin health, and its decline has a domino effect on several skin-related processes.
Collagen Loss
Oestrogen stimulates collagen production, which gives skin its firmness and elasticity. Once oestrogen declines, collagen production slows dramatically. Research shows women lose about 30% of their skin collagen in the first five years after menopause.
Result: Skin becomes thinner, less firm, and more prone to sagging and wrinkles.
Decreased Skin Hydration
Oestrogen also plays a role in maintaining skin hydration by boosting hyaluronic acid and supporting the skin barrier. Without it, skin can become dry, rough, and more sensitive.
Result: You may notice flakiness, itchiness, or a dull complexion—even if you never had dry skin before.
Thinner, More Fragile Skin
Lower oestrogen levels can thin the epidermis (the outer skin layer), reducing its protective barrier. This makes skin more vulnerable to environmental damage and slower to heal.
Result: Bruising more easily, delayed wound healing, and increased sensitivity.
Increased Pigmentation and Age Spots
Hormonal fluctuations, combined with cumulative sun exposure, can lead to uneven pigmentation and age spots. While hyperpigmentation may have started earlier, it often worsens during and after menopause.
Result: More visible dark spots and uneven tone.
Loss of Fat and Volume
Fat pads under the skin, especially around the cheeks, eyes, and jawline, start to diminish during menopause. This volume loss leads to hollowing and a more tired appearance.
Result: A shift in facial contours and more noticeable fine lines.
How to Support Your Skin Through Menopause
THE GOOD NEWS? Understanding what’s happening gives you the power to adapt your skincare and treatment routine to meet your skin’s evolving needs.
Upgrade Your Moisturiser
Look for creams that contain ceramides, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and niacinamide. These ingredients support hydration, skin barrier repair, and collagen stimulation.
Add Retinoids
Topical retinoids are proven to increase cell turnover and stimulate collagen—but they can be harsh on sensitive, menopausal skin. If irritation is a concern, try bakuchiol, a gentler plant-based alternative.
Stay Sun Smart
With thinner skin and heightened pigmentation, sun protection is non-negotiable. Use broad-spectrum SPF 30 daily—even in winter or on cloudy days.
Hydrate Inside and Out
Drink at least 2 litres of water a day to help maintain skin moisture levels.
Aging Gracefully, Not Passively
Menopause may be a turning point, but it’s not the end of vibrant, beautiful skin. With the right skincare and treatment plan, you can continue to feel confident in your skin during this new chapter.
Want personalised skincare and treatment tips for menopause?
I’d be happy to create a custom routine tailored to you and your skins needs.