Skin changes during menopause are a common occurrence; in fact, almost 50% of women will experience night sweats skin issues related to perimenopause and menopause.

Understanding the impact of perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause on your skin is crucial for maintaining healthy, vibrant skin during this phase of life. Both perimenopausal women and postmenopausal women are affected by these changes. By implementing some practical tips and making informed choices about the skincare you use, you can alleviate, or at least ease, many of the common skin concerns associated with menopause.

Menopause can also be associated with hair disorders, which are common during this period and should be considered alongside skin changes.

What are common skin conditions associated with menopause?

Itching and Dry Skin

One of the most frequent complaints among perimenopausal and menopausal women is itching and dry skin. Estrogen, an essential hormone throughout our whole body, plays a crucial role in maintaining the skin’s natural hydration mechanisms. It promotes the production of ceramides, natural hyaluronic acid, and sebum, which help retain moisture. However, with declining oestrogen levels, these substances become scarce, leading to increased water evaporation and resulting in skin dryness, dry and itchy skin, and scaling. These changes can result in estrogen deficient skin, which is more prone to dryness and irritation.

Reduced sebum production is also a result of declining oestrogen levels, further contributing to skin dryness and discomfort during menopause.

What you can do:

To combat dryness, avoid using drying soaps that lather, foam, or bubble, as they strip away natural oils. Instead, opt for a gentle, non-foaming cleanser for both your face and body. If your skin remains dry, consider using a moisturising lotion as a soap substitute. Make it a habit to moisturise your skin twice a day, especially after showering or bathing. Lighter moisturisers are ideal for daytime use, while heavier ones work well for nighttime hydration. Using a moisturiser with Hyaluronic acid on damp skin can also help draw in moisture, along with topping up moisturisers with a good-quality facial oil for extra hydration.

If persistent itching occurs, consult your doctor to rule out other potential causes such as histamine release, skin nerve irritation, iron deficiency, or thyroid disturbance.

Spots and Acne

Dealing with spots and acne can be distressing, particularly during menopause, when you may have been used to clear skin for many years. Some women, especially those who experienced acne as teenagers, may experience flare-ups during this stage of hormone fluctuation and decline. While the exact cause is still unclear, it’s believed that a decrease in estrogen levels may contribute to an imbalance of male hormones, triggering spots and acne.

What you can do:

Review all of the products you put on your skin, from your makeup to your sun protection. Try to only use products that are non-comedogenic (contain ingredients that won't clog or block the pores on your skin) and won't aggravate spots or acne. Use a mild cleanser containing salicylic acid to gently exfoliate the skin and help unclog pores. Other beneficial ingredients to include in your skincare are retinol and niacinamide, with studies showing them to be safe and effective for acne. Remember, consistency is key; it may take a few months for these products to show noticeable results, so be patient and keep going.

Redness and Flushing 

Flushing, aka hot flushes or flashes, is characterised by sudden facial redness and warmth (for some, a burning heat) and is a well-known symptom of menopause. Menopausal hot flashes and menopausal flushing are alternative terms often used to describe these episodes. Oestrogen deficiency is a key factor in the development of menopausal flushing. Oestrogen therapy is considered an effective treatment for menopausal flushing, while selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are not considered effective for this symptom. Additionally, some women may experience flushing due to rosacea, a condition where the skin’s blood vessels become highly reactive. Rosacea tends to be more prevalent in women, especially during the menopause years. Cardiovascular disease risk also increases during menopause and should be considered when evaluating symptoms like flushing.

What you can do:

Some simple lifestyle changes have been shown to help alleviate the redness and flushing caused by rosacea, and also reduce the severity of hot flushes. Limit your intake of alcohol and caffeine, avoid spicy foods, and protect your skin from the sun. In some cases, creams or laser treatments can shrink the tiny blood vessels in the skin and provide further relief from rosacea.

Facial Hair

The rapid drop in estrogen levels causes an imbalance in the estrogen-to-testosterone ratio. For some women, this imbalance can lead to the growth of unwanted thicker facial hair around the upper lip, chin, cheeks, and jawline.

What you can do:

Luckily, these days we have various hair removal methods to choose from, including plucking, waxing, threading, shaving, and creams. For those wanting a more permanent solution, electrolysis and laser hair removal can be considered.

Fine lines, Wrinkles, and Jowls

Estrogen is vital for collagen production, which gives strength, plumpness, and structure to the skin. Studies have shown that collagen drops as much as 30% in the first five years of menopause, then approximately 2% every year thereafter. Reduced skin collagen levels mean the skin loses its tightness and firmness, resulting in fine lines, wrinkles, jowls, sagging skin, slack skin, and a loss of jawline definition. You may also start to notice your skin feeling thinner than previously.

Topical oestrogen has been shown to improve skin collagen and skin firmness in postmenopausal women.

Oestrogen receptors are highly concentrated in the skin and play a key role in maintaining skin structure; reduced activity of these receptors during menopause contributes to these changes.

A good skincare routine, including anti aging products, can help address these changes and support skin health.

What you can do: 

To minimise the decline in collagen levels, adopt habits that protect your skin. Limit sun exposure, avoid smoking, and minimise your alchol consumption. Review your skincare routine and incorporate anti-ageing serums containing retinoids and vitamin C - ingredients shown to help with dull skin and fine lines.

Once you reach postmenopause (12 months after your last period), skin changes will start to settle and become more gradual. Focus on the basics: staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and limiting your consumption of alcohol and processed foods. 

Genital Health and Skin Changes

Genital health is a vital part of a woman’s overall well-being, especially during menopause. As hormone levels shift, many women notice skin changes not just on their face and body, but also in the genital region. These changes can affect comfort, confidence, and quality of life, making it important to understand what’s happening and how to care for this sensitive area. Menopausal skin in the genital area can become more delicate, and the skin barrier may weaken, leading to increased sensitivity and a higher risk of irritation or infection. By being proactive and informed, menopausal women can better manage these changes and maintain healthy skin throughout this transition.

Common Genital Skin Concerns During Menopause

During menopause, declining estrogen levels can lead to a range of genital skin concerns. Vaginal dryness is one of the most common symptoms, often accompanied by itching, burning, or discomfort. This dryness occurs because the skin loses its natural ability to retain moisture, and the protective skin barrier becomes less effective. Many women also experience itchy skin, pain during intercourse, and a greater likelihood of urinary tract infections. In addition, certain skin disorders, such as lichen sclerosus and lichen planus, may develop or worsen during this time, causing further irritation and requiring medical attention. Menopausal symptoms like these can have a significant impact on daily life, but understanding the underlying causes can help women seek the right treatment options and support.

What you can do: 

Caring for genital skin during menopause starts with gentle, consistent routines. Use a mild cleanser and avoid products with harsh chemicals or fragrances, as these can strip the skin and worsen dryness or irritation. A fragrance free moisturizer can help keep the skin moist and comfortable, while topical therapy such as topical oestradiol may be recommended by your healthcare provider to address vaginal dryness and restore skin barrier function. Regular skin self exams are important for detecting any unusual changes early, including signs of skin cancer, which menopausal women are at increased risk for.

By prioritizing genital health and being attentive to skin changes, menopausal women can reduce their risk of skin disorders, improve comfort, and enhance their overall well-being. Remember, you’re not alone in facing these changes, and with the right care and support, you can navigate menopause with confidence and comfort.

 

Remember, it's never too late to prioritise self-care and embrace your skin's natural beauty.

Discover our range of natural, evidance-based supplements, developed with mind-and-body nutrients to support your body and your needs before, during and after this transitionary life stage.

This article has been reviewed by our expert advisory team.