Let’s face it: menopause doesn’t just knock politely on the door of your life. It barges in uninvited, bringing a whole suitcase of surprises, many of which show up right on your skin. As an aesthetics nurse and someone who has been navigating early menopause since my hysterectomy in 2022, I see it every day—not only in my clients but in the mirror too.
The changes can feel frustrating and downright unfair. One minute your skin is plump, smooth, and glowing, and the next, it’s dull, dry, and doing its best impression of a crepe paper. But menopause doesn’t have to mean the end of radiant skin. With the right care, lifestyle changes, and support, you can still glow—inside and out.
The Menopause-Skin Connection: What’s Happening?
Menopause triggers a rollercoaster of hormonal changes, particularly a significant drop in estrogen. Estrogen plays a vital role in maintaining skin health—it boosts collagen production, retains moisture, and keeps your skin elastic. Without it, you might notice:
- Dull or “grey” skin: Reduced blood flow means your skin doesn’t look as vibrant.
- Dryness: Decreased oil production can make skin feel tight or flaky.
- Collagen loss: Up to 30% of collagen is lost during the first five years of menopause (Shuster, et al., 2005). This can lead to sagging and wrinkles.
- Acne and breakouts: Hormonal imbalances can cause unexpected flare-ups.
- Thinner skin: Skin may bruise more easily and appear less plump.
Even areas you don’t expect—like the skin on your stomach—can suddenly change. After my hysterectomy, I noticed an overhang of skin on my abdomen that had never been there before, even after five pregnancies. It’s a reminder that menopause doesn’t just affect your face; it’s a full-body experience.
What I See in My Clients (and Myself!)
Most of my clients are navigating menopause or perimenopause, and as aesthetic professionals, we see these changes every day in our clinics. Women come in feeling disconnected from their skin—and sometimes, from themselves.
The clinic isn’t just a place to get Botox® or filler. It’s a safe space where women can vent about feeling “off” or frustrated with their appearance. I’ve found that aesthetic treatments often go hand-in-hand with a bit of therapy. Sometimes, just having someone listen and say, “I get it” can be as rejuvenating as the treatments themselves.
What You Can Do for Your Skin
The good news? There are plenty of ways to manage menopausal skin changes, from simple lifestyle tweaks to in-clinic treatments. Here’s how you can take control, no matter your budget.
1. Prioritise Skincare
- Hydration is key: Use moisturisers with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides to lock in moisture.
- Boost collagen: Retinol or peptides can help stimulate collagen production.
- Protect your skin: Daily sunscreen is non-negotiable—UV rays accelerate collagen loss.
- Cleanse gently: Avoid harsh soaps that strip your skin’s natural oils.
Budget Tip: Drugstore brands like CeraVe® and The Ordinary offer affordable, effective options. If you’re looking to invest, brands like Face Junkie provide luxury results with science-backed ingredients.
2. Nutrition for Radiant Skin
Your skin reflects what you eat, so focus on a balanced diet:
- Add healthy fats: Omega-3s found in salmon, walnuts, and flaxseed help maintain skin’s elasticity.
- Eat the rainbow: Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables (think berries, spinach, and carrots) fight free radicals that damage skin cells.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water supports skin elasticity and flushes toxins.
Fact: A study published in Dermato-Endocrinology found that a diet rich in antioxidants and healthy fats can significantly reduce the signs of aging (Zussman, et al., 2010).
3. Lifestyle Changes That Work
- Get enough sleep: Your skin regenerates while you sleep. Aim for 7–9 hours per night.
- Exercise regularly: Increased blood flow from exercise gives your skin a healthy glow.
- Manage stress: Chronic stress can worsen breakouts and dullness. Try yoga, meditation, or even a good walk.
4. In-Clinic Treatments
Aesthetic treatments can complement your skincare and lifestyle efforts:
- Microneedling: Stimulates collagen for firmer, smoother skin.
- Chemical peels: Brighten dull skin and improve texture.
- Injectables: Botox® and dermal fillers can address fine lines and volume loss.
- Skin boosters: Treatments like Profhilo® hydrate from the inside out.
Budget Tip: Many clinics offer payment plans with companies such as Klarna or Payl8r, making these treatments more accessible.
You’re Not Alone
Menopause can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. As aesthetic professionals, we see and understand these changes firsthand. Your skin—and how you feel about it—is valid. And while menopause may bring challenges, it’s also an opportunity to reconnect with yourself and take control of your skincare journey.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re dealing with dull skin, unexpected breakouts, or a new wrinkle that seems to appear overnight, there are steps you can take to improve your skin and feel more like yourself. From affordable skincare products to in-clinic treatments, there’s an option for everyone.
And if you’re ever feeling overwhelmed? Pop into your local aesthetic clinic. We’ll chat about collagen, life, and maybe even the chaos of hot flashes—because sometimes, all you need is a little glow-up and a good vent.
Want to know more? Drop your questions on our contact and support page or book a consultation with a reputable clinic to discuss your concerns — we’re here to help.
References:
Shuster, S., Black, M. M., & McVitie, E. (2005). The influence of age and sex on skin thickness, skin collagen, and density. British Journal of Dermatology, 93(6), 639-643.
Zussman, J., Ahdout, J., & Kim, J. (2010). Vitamins and photoaging: Do scientific data support their use? Dermato-Endocrinology, 2(1), 11-17.