Menopause and the skin
Menopause is reached when a woman has not had a period for 12 months. According to the NHS, it usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55, although it can happen earlier. The transition to menopause can take several years, and during this time hormonal changes affect the body both physically and emotionally. The skin is one of the places where many women notice a difference first.
How menopause affects the skin
As oestrogen levels drop, the skin typically becomes less oily and loses moisture, collagen and elasticity. So, a woman with oily skin for years may notice her skin becomes dry. Other common changes include itching, redness and flushing, fine lines and wrinkles, sagging skin, and changes in skin texture. Some women can even get adult acne during perimenopause.
Look after your skin from the inside
There are many things you can do to support the health of your skin and your overall wellbeing. Eating a healthy balanced diet of fruits and vegetables and nuts and seeds and oily fish will help to support the health of your skin. Drinking plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated, cutting down on alcohol and managing stress, which can cause flushing and itchy skin, are also important. Exercise regularly and get plenty of sleep to help keep your skin looking and feeling healthy by maintaining good circulation.
Dryness and itching
Moisturise regularly, ideally straight after washing while the skin is still slightly damp. Use gentle, soap-free cleansers, avoid very hot showers and choose fragrance-free products if your skin is sensitive, as fragrances can irritate. Ingredients such as aloe vera may help calm red or irritated skin. For help from a Skin Clinic Exeter, visit helenhuntaesthetics.co.uk
Wrinkles and sagging
As we age, our skin loses firmness. Sun protection every day is one of the most effective ways to slow down further damage to the skin. Products that contain retinoids (a form of vitamin A) can help to smooth out fine lines. These should be used with caution and only introduced slowly into your skincare regime as they can cause irritation. Professional treatments such as microneedling and laser skin resurfacing may also help some people, and suitability should be discussed with a qualified practitioner.
Menopause skin care at a glance
| Concern | What can help |
|---|---|
| Dryness | Rich moisturiser, gentle cleansers, shorter cooler showers |
| Itching and redness | Fragrance-free products, soothing ingredients, less alcohol |
| Fine lines | Daily sunscreen, retinoids introduced gradually |
| Loss of firmness | Sun protection, professional treatments after advice |
When to get medical advice
If menopausal symptoms are affecting your daily life, including changes to your skin, talk to your GP about HRT and other treatments that can help. Your GP can also check for you that any changes to your skin are not caused by something else. You should seek advice quickly on any new or changing moles.
Frequently asked questions
Can HRT help menopausal skin?
HRT is primarily used to treat symptoms such as hot flushes but some women also report that their skin feels less dry whilst on HRT. However, HRT is not suitable for everyone and women should discuss the benefits and risks with their GP before commencing.
Why is my skin suddenly itchy during menopause?
As the level of oestrogen falls in the menopause, the skin can become dry and sensitive. Itching can occur and can be relieved by regular use of a moisturiser and mild skin care products. However, severe or persistent itching should be assessed by a GP.
Where to go next
Looking for a restful break? Read about menopause-supporting spa breaks.
