Skin changes during menopause surprise many women, with 64% of women at menopause clinics reporting skin problems. I've found these changes extend beyond a few extra wrinkles—they're much more important than most people realize. Women lose about 30% of their collagen during menopause's first five years. This loss continues at 2% each year for the next twenty years.
The dramatic impact of menopause on skin catches most women off guard. Their skin becomes thinner and drier as estrogen levels decrease. Some women face unexpected challenges like adult acne when their sebum production increases. These changes can lead to conditions like eczematous eruptions and contact dermatitis—common issues for perimenopausal and menopausal women. This piece explains what happens to your skin during menopause, the hormonal factors behind these changes, and effective solutions that work. You'll learn about natural treatments and specialized skincare routines created for this life stage.
What really happens to your skin during menopause
The hormonal fluctuations of menopause create deep changes in your skin that go beyond a few extra wrinkles. Your skin goes through major changes that might surprise and challenge you as your body moves through this phase.
Dryness, itching, and sensitivity
Very dry skin ranks among the most common menopause complaints. Many women who once had normal or oily skin face this issue. Estrogen plays a vital role in oil production and helps your skin retain water [1]. Your skin's moisture levels drop substantially when estrogen decreases [2].
The loss of natural oils and moisture often creates uncomfortable itching, known medically as "pruritus." This typically shows up on your face, neck, chest, and arms [1]. Women over 65 consider pruritus their main skin concern [2]. The itch isn't just bothersome - it can feel like prickling, crawling, or pins and needles [2].
Your skin's pH balance shifts after menopause, which makes it react more to products that never bothered you before [3]. Your skin might get irritated more easily now, and conditions like eczema or rosacea could get worse [3].
Loss of firmness and elasticity
The most noticeable change shows up in your skin's firmness. Studies reveal that collagen production drops dramatically - 30% in the first five years of menopause [3]. This decline continues at about 2% yearly for the next two decades [3]. So your once-firm, plump skin starts to sag and lose its bounce.
This collagen loss links directly to postmenopausal age rather than chronological age [4]. You might see sagging around your jawline, neck, and cheeks [5]. Smile lines become permanent features, your nose tip might drop, eye areas can hollow out, and pores look larger [5].
Breakouts and adult acne
Adult acne surprises many menopausal women. It shows up as ongoing acne from earlier years, returns after a clear period, or appears for the first time [6]. Research shows that acne affects about 26.3% of women in their 40s and 15.3% of women 50 and older [6].
This happens because estrogen levels drop sharply after menopause, while androgens (male hormones) decrease more slowly, which creates a hormone imbalance [6]. More sebum production results in clogged pores and breakouts, especially along your jawline and chin [6].
Menopausal acne looks different from teenage acne. It shows up as inflammatory papulopustular lesions and leaves more lasting redness, pigmentation, and scarring [6].
Changes in skin tone and texture
Your skin's overall appearance changes during menopause. Lower estrogen affects your skin's tone and texture, often making it look duller [7].
Age spots might become more obvious on your face, hands, and chest [5]. Melasma develops in some women, with up to 80% of women who have extrafacial melasma being postmenopausal [4].
Less collagen, reduced elasticity, and lower moisture levels work together to change your skin's texture. Your skin might feel thinner and more papery, with rough patches and flaking [3]. These changes impact all three facial skin layers—the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis [5].
These skin changes become easier to address once you understand them. You can take action with targeted skincare and lifestyle changes that work for your skin's new needs.
The hidden hormonal triggers behind skin aging
"The primary hormones involved in menopause are estrogen and progesterone. Estrogen, in particular, plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health. It stimulates the production of collagen and oils, which keep the skin elastic, firm, and hydrated." — Dr. Doris Day, Board-certified dermatologist and clinical associate professor at NYU Langone Health
The dramatic skin changes during menopause tell a complex story about hormones. Learning about why it happens helps us deal with these changes more effectively.
Estrogen decline and its effects
Estrogen does more than regulate reproduction—it's a powerful ally for our skin. Research shows estrogen receptors exist throughout the skin, with the face, genital region, and legs having the highest concentrations [8]. These receptors become less responsive when estrogen levels drop during menopause.
Estrogen activates important skin cells called fibroblasts and keratinocytes [9]. These cells make collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid—vital substances that keep skin looking young. The hormone also strengthens the skin barrier, controls moisture levels, and helps maintain proper immune responses in the skin [10].
Your skin becomes much more vulnerable to environmental damage and ages faster when this hormone drops [10]. This aging goes beyond what happens from getting older naturally.
How menopause affects collagen and hydration
The connection between estrogen and collagen shows the most dramatic changes in menopausal skin. Research proves that collagen production doesn't just slow—it crashes. Women lose about 30% of their skin collagen during the first five years after menopause starts [2].
After this sharp drop, collagen keeps decreasing by 2.1% yearly for 20 years [9]. This decline links directly to being postmenopausal rather than just getting older [10].
The lack of estrogen also hits skin hydration hard. The hormone usually triggers production of four key elements: ceramides, natural hyaluronic acid, sebum (oil), and collagen [11]. Without enough of these substances, water escapes through your skin by transepidermal water loss (TEWL) [8]. Your skin loses its moisture-holding power, which leads to dryness and itching common in menopausal skin.
The link between hormones and inflammation
Many people don't know how menopause changes the body's inflammatory response. A 2020 study in the Journal of Neuroinflammation calls the menopausal transition an "inflammatory event" [3]. This happens because estrogen naturally fights inflammation and keeps skin calm.
Lower estrogen levels weaken this anti-inflammatory protection. The result is mild but ongoing inflammation throughout the body, including the skin [3]. This change can trigger or worsen eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. About half of women with psoriasis say their symptoms get worse during menopause [3].
Stress hormones like cortisol often rise during this time, in part due to poor sleep and hot flashes [12]. Higher cortisol breaks down collagen faster and speeds up skin aging [13]. This stress response can make inflammatory skin conditions worse, creating a tough cycle to break [13].
These hidden hormonal changes explain why menopausal skin changes go beyond just looks—they stem from real biological responses to major hormonal shifts. Supporting skin health during this transition works better when we target these root causes instead of just treating visible symptoms.
Natural ways to support your skin through menopause
Your skin doesn't need expensive procedures or prescription medications during menopause. Simple lifestyle changes can nourish your skin from within and tackle the mechanisms of menopausal skin problems.
Hydrating foods and antioxidant-rich diet
The food you eat affects your skin's resilience during menopause. Studies show that eating more wholegrains, fruits, and vegetables while cutting back on fats helps control hot flashes [14]. Your skin needs:
- Omega-3 fatty acids from salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts to keep your skin's natural oil barrier strong [15]
- Vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers to boost collagen production [16]
- Vitamin E from avocados, nuts, and olive oil to shield against environmental damage [1]
- Phytoestrogens in soy products that balance hormone levels and help with age-related skin thinning [2]
Try eating 30 different plant foods each week. This supports your gut microbiome diversity and can help balance your hormone levels [14].
Exercise and improved circulation
Regular physical activity does wonders for menopausal skin. Exercise gets your blood flowing, making your skin look brighter and healthier [2]. Physical activity also boosts collagen production, which benefits both skin and joints [17]. A simple walk - the choice of 75% of women in menopause studies - improves circulation and lowers stress [18].
Stress management and sleep quality
High stress levels make your skin dry and sensitive. Research shows stress hormones like cortisol break down collagen and speed up skin aging. Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises help manage stress [2].
Good sleep lets your body repair skin cells and make collagen. Most people need 7-9 hours each night [2]. A solid bedtime routine helps - skip screens before bed, use blackout curtains, and try relaxing with lavender spray on your pillow [19].
7 natural menopause treatments that really work
Natural remedies can help with menopausal skin:
- Daily Vitamin E supplements (400mcg) reduce hot flashes and soothe itchy skin [1]
- Bone broth gives your skin the building blocks it needs for collagen [4]
- Coconut oil on your skin eases itching and dryness [1]
- Oatmeal baths calm inflammation through plant compounds called avenanthramides [4]
- Black cohosh helps with mild hot flashes in short-term treatment [5]
- Flaxseed provides lignans (phytoestrogens) and omega-3s for healthy skin [5]
- Cold drinks, especially water, keep you hydrated and make hot flashes less intense [5]
Beauty within "Skin Glow" - Goldman Laboratories
Goldman Laboratories' Skin Glow capsules target menopausal skin changes. These supplements contain collagen-boosting ingredients, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides that maintain skin elasticity and hydration [20]. The formula features Ovoderm® for natural collagen production and Greeniuronic® for deep moisture retention [21].
Skincare routines that actually help menopausal skin
A good skincare routine plays a vital role in tackling the unique challenges of menopausal skin. Your skin needs special attention to stay hydrated, firm, and radiant when estrogen levels drop.
Morning vs. evening skincare needs
Your skin behaves differently throughout the day. Protection and hydration should be your morning priorities. Start with a mild cleanser that contains ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin to clean your face with lukewarm water without stripping natural oils. A moisturizer rich in these ingredients will lock in hydration. Make sure to finish with a physical sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher that contains non-nano zinc oxide above 10% concentration. You should reapply sunscreen every two hours outdoors because sun protection becomes more significant during menopause [6].
The nighttime routine focuses on repair and regeneration. Use the same gentle cleanser before applying treatments that work during sleep. This gives you the best time to use ingredients that might make your skin sensitive in daylight, such as retinol or exfoliating acids [22].
Choosing the right ingredients for mature skin
Some ingredients work better than others for menopausal skin:
- Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin - These humectants and emollients help maintain barrier function and prevent moisture loss [6]
- Retinol - Reduces wrinkles and helps with menopausal acne. Start with lower concentrations twice weekly and gradually increase usage [22]
- Peptides - Help minimize discoloration and fine lines while supporting collagen production [6]
- Niacinamide - Improves skin elasticity and reduces redness with anti-inflammatory properties [23]
- Gentle exfoliating acids - Lactic acid suits mature skin without causing excessive dryness [22]
Stay away from harsh scrubs, very hot water, and foam cleansers. These products don't deal very well with menopausal skin's dryness [22].
How to layer products for best results
Product order substantially affects how well they work. Start with the thinnest consistency and move toward the thickest. Apply serums like hyaluronic acid that penetrate deeply after cleansing. Add treatment products for specific concerns next. A moisturizer seals everything in. Sunscreen should be your final step during the day [24].
Regular application morning and evening gives you the best results [25]. Note that skincare isn't one-size-fits-all at any life stage, so finding what suits your skin type might take some experimentation [6].
What to expect long-term and how to adapt
"Hormonal changes can also lead to the development of age spots and hyperpigmentation, particularly on areas exposed to the sun." — Dr. Doris Day, Board-certified dermatologist and clinical associate professor at NYU Langone Health
Life after menopause brings continuous changes to your skin long after the original transition. Your skincare routine needs to evolve as your skin changes over time.
Gradual changes after menopause
Your body adapts to a gentler pattern of change after the dramatic skin shifts of early menopause. Each year, collagen production drops by about 1-1.5% following the initial decline [7]. Your skin becomes thinner and more delicate, making it easier to bruise [26].
The protective barrier of your skin weakens as time passes. Post-menopausal skin gets drier, itchier, and more sensitive to irritation [7]. Your skin also takes more time to heal because of reduced blood flow that affects its ability to repair itself [27].
Adjusting your skincare as you age
Your skin's needs will change as you move through your 50s, 60s, and beyond. Products that worked during perimenopause might not give you the results you need later [28].
Dryness becomes your biggest concern, so you might need to switch from light gel moisturizers to richer formulas with ceramides and glycerin [7]. In spite of that, retinoids remain important to support collagen production - just make sure to use strengths that work with your more sensitive skin [27].
Regular visits to your dermatologist are a great way to get updates on your skin's condition [28]. These checkups help spot potential issues early, which lets you take action before they become serious problems.
When to think about professional treatments
Professional treatments might be worth exploring when your home skincare routine isn't enough. Microneedling helps boost natural collagen and elastin production by creating tiny, controlled injuries [26]. This technique helps curb the natural slowdown of collagen production in post-menopausal skin [29].
Polynucleotides can provide deeper renewal, improving your skin's texture and bounce while reducing redness [29]. Chemical peels work well too, addressing texture issues and dark spots through controlled exfoliation [29].
Note that these changes in your skin are completely normal. You can keep your skin healthy and comfortable throughout your post-menopausal years by staying aware of these changes and adjusting your care routine accordingly.
Conclusion
Managing menopausal skin changes feels overwhelming at first, but the right knowledge helps you handle these transformations effectively. In this piece, we've seen how estrogen decline dramatically affects your skin's collagen, hydration, and inflammation. These changes might catch you by surprise, but they are normal physiological processes that every woman experiences differently.
Your skin's needs during this transition go beyond cosmetic concerns and reflect deeper hormonal changes that need specific attention. A powerful approach to maintaining skin health during menopause combines internal support through diet, exercise, and stress management with targeted skincare. Products with ceramides, retinol, and peptides work particularly well.
A consistent skincare routine delivers the most important benefits over time. You'll see better results when you adapt your routine proactively as you move through your 50s, 60s, and beyond to meet your skin's evolving needs.
The trip through menopause marks a new beginning for your skincare approach, not just an ending. Support your skin's new requirements with informed choices instead of fighting these natural changes. Understanding what happens beneath the surface enables you to make decisions that keep your skin comfortable, healthy, and resilient for years ahead.
FAQs
Q1. How does menopause affect skin health? Menopause triggers significant skin changes due to hormonal fluctuations. These include increased dryness, loss of firmness and elasticity, potential breakouts, and changes in skin tone and texture. Women may experience a 30% loss in collagen during the first five years of menopause, leading to visible signs of aging.
Q2. What are some natural ways to support skin during menopause? Natural approaches to support menopausal skin include consuming a diet rich in hydrating foods and antioxidants, regular exercise to improve circulation, stress management techniques, and ensuring quality sleep. Additionally, supplements like vitamin E and collagen-boosting foods can help alleviate some menopausal skin symptoms.
Q3. How should skincare routines be adjusted for menopausal skin? Menopausal skin requires specialized care. Morning routines should focus on protection and hydration, while evening routines emphasize repair and regeneration. Key ingredients to look for include ceramides, hyaluronic acid, retinol, peptides, and niacinamide. It's important to layer products correctly, starting with the thinnest consistency and ending with the thickest.
Q4. What long-term skin changes can be expected after menopause? After the initial transition, skin continues to evolve with a gradual decline in collagen production, weakening of the skin barrier, and increased dryness and sensitivity. Skin may become thinner and more fragile over time. Regular dermatologist visits and adjusting skincare routines accordingly can help manage these ongoing changes.
Q5. When should professional skin treatments be considered during menopause? Professional treatments may be worth considering when at-home care no longer adequately addresses skin concerns. Treatments like microneedling can stimulate collagen production, while chemical peels can address texture issues and hyperpigmentation. It's best to consult with a dermatologist to determine the most appropriate treatments for your specific skin needs.
References
[1] - https://www.hollandandbarrett.com/the-health-hub/conditions/womens-health/menopause/best-natural-menopause-cures/
[2] - https://www.webmd.com/menopause/ss/slideshow-better-skin-after-menopause
[3] - https://www.health.harvard.edu/womens-health/beyond-hot-flashes
[4] - https://www.womenshealthnetwork.com/menopause-and-perimenopause/remedies-for-dry-skin-in-menopause/
[5] - https://www.webmd.com/menopause/menopause-natural-treatments
[6] - https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/dermatologists-share-skin-care-tips-for-menopause-and-beyond
[7] - https://aromantic.co.uk/blogs/natural-organic-skincare-blog/how-to-adjust-your-skincare-routine-as-you-age
[8] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10092853/
[9] - https://biopelle.com/latest-blog-posts/changes-to-your-skin-aging-or-menopause/?srsltid=AfmBOopengFm2QQRTWg1OFpb1nd-PEZoBFIshyT2g4VK0ASijZqM3e03
[10] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3772914/
[11] - https://www.drlouisenewson.co.uk/knowledge/skin-changes-during-perimenopause-and-menopause
[12] - https://www.winslowskincare.co.uk/understanding-the-link-between-skin-menopause
[13] - https://www.southfaceskin.com/how-hormones-impact-the-look-and-feel-of-your-skin/
[14] - https://www.bda.uk.com/resource/menopause-diet.html
[15] - https://www.mymenopausecentre.com/menopause-skin-changes/menopause-and-hormone-skincare/hormone-skin-effects-during-menopause-essential-skincare-tips/
[16] - https://www.healthline.com/health/menopause/menopause-skin-care-diet
[17] - https://issviva.co.uk/blogs/magazine-wellness/benefits-of-physical-activity?srsltid=AfmBOoo8XIrva1_hKxvaUsrgQbThWx4k-2zsWbj8OQYhl-RIsPh_07YT
[18] - https://www.thebodycoach.com/blog/why-exercise-is-key-during-menopause/
[19] - https://www.dralexisgranite.com/journal/menopause-and-skin/
[20] - https://goldmanlaboratories.com/blogs/blog/menopause-skin-care-tips-for-healthy-and-hydrated-skin?srsltid=AfmBOoow4DdbpvKhwpsqMLWoT2x3BL7WJwQT2DpnExaG5jXhJJS65U4J
[21] - https://goldmanlaboratories.com/products/skin-glow-best-collagen-supplements-for-skin?srsltid=AfmBOor60aMD5_OJrlRQCFdpqHIGmT9Riovb02tOFS9hsuBxQHhPa19b
[22] - https://www.boots.com/skincare-beauty-advice/skincare-advice/skin-concerns/skincare-during-menopause?srsltid=AfmBOoq4jHfAq5tGBLZUQL5YikXv9hIARSs0PYpOui6sDg3-sNPxmiXN
[23] - https://www.independent.co.uk/extras/indybest/fashion-beauty/skincare/anti-aging-mature-skin-care-b2704444.html
[24] - https://www.boots.com/skincare-beauty-advice/skincare-advice/skin-concerns/skincare-during-menopause?srsltid=AfmBOor5FDy8MNPHDkDPTQXdapd-QWHJtSV--mLvsClOpkG4vwidh3Fz
[25] - https://www.kiehls.co.uk/world-of-kiehls/how-to-get-glowing-skin-during-the-menopause.html
[26] - https://doctornyla.com/blog/how-does-menopause-affect-the-skin-and-how-can-you-treat-it/
[27] - https://www.harleyacademy.com/esthetic-medicine-articles/rejuvenating-menopausal-skin-proven-esthetic-treatments-and-techniques/
[28] - https://www.laroche-posay.co.uk/en_GB/how-your-skincare-routine-should-change-with-your-age.html
[29] - https://skinandmedicalcosmetics.co.uk/blog/10-best-esthetic-treatments-for-menopausal-women/
