Skin and the Menopause: What's Happening and How to Care for It

Oestrogen plays a key role in keeping skin firm, hydrated, and resilient. Learn how menopause changes your skin and what you can do — from your daily skincare routine to HRT — to keep it thriving.

Menopause is a significant transition marked by hormonal shifts that affect nearly every system in the body, including the skin. While much of the conversation around menopause centres on symptoms like hot flushes, mood changes, and sleep disturbances, the changes to the skin are often just as impactful — and for many women, deeply personal.

The skin is the body's largest organ, and it responds directly to fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly oestrogen. This hormone helps regulate collagen production, elasticity, hydration, wound healing, and pigmentation. As oestrogen levels begin to decline during perimenopause and postmenopause, the skin's ability to maintain its resilience and radiance declines with it.

Collagen and skin structure

One of the most noticeable changes is a reduction in collagen — the protein that provides structure and firmness to the skin. Research shows that up to 30% of collagen can be lost in the first five years following menopause, leading to thinner skin, increased laxity, and more pronounced fine lines and wrinkles.

Dryness and hydration

Skin often becomes drier during menopause. Oestrogen normally supports the production of natural oils and hyaluronic acid — substances that help the skin retain moisture. Without adequate oestrogen, the skin's barrier function is weakened, leaving it more prone to sensitivity, itching, and flaking.

Pigmentation and sun sensitivity

Another common concern is the development of increased pigmentation, such as age spots, or a worsening of existing conditions like melasma. These changes are partly hormonal but also reflect a lifetime of cumulative sun exposure. Menopausal skin is more vulnerable to UV damage, and the protective mechanisms that once helped repair skin after sun exposure become less effective with age.

Acne and rosacea

For some women, menopause brings unexpected flare-ups of adult acne or rosacea. Shifts in the balance of hormones — particularly a relative increase in androgens — can trigger changes in oil production and skin sensitivity. While these changes are natural, they can be distressing.

Caring for your skin during menopause

A few evidence-informed steps can make a real difference:

HRT and the skin

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can also benefit the skin. HRT has been shown to increase skin thickness, improve elasticity, and restore hydration in postmenopausal women. For women who are suitable candidates, this can be an added advantage alongside the broader therapeutic effects of hormone therapy. Whether HRT is appropriate depends on your individual health history and should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider — book a consultation to explore your options.

Summary: 3 ways to care for your skin during menopause

  1. Hydrate and protect — Use a nourishing moisturiser daily and apply SPF 30+ every morning. Keeping the skin hydrated and shielded from UV damage helps reduce dryness, sensitivity, and premature ageing.
  1. Adjust your skincare routine — Swap harsh cleansers or exfoliants for gentle, barrier-supporting products. Look for active ingredients like retinoids (or bakuchiol), vitamin C, and niacinamide to support collagen production and improve skin tone and texture.
  1. Consider support from a specialist — Talk to a qualified menopause specialist about options like HRT, nutrition, and lifestyle adjustments. A whole-body approach is often the most effective way to support skin health from the inside out.

This article is for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your treatment.

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