Skin and menopause maintain a close relationship, and although we often overlook it, hormonal changes impact us. Indeed, variations in this stage have a profound impact on appearance and cutaneous health.
With estrogenic decrease, skin tends to lose firmness. Also, it suffers loss of elasticity, becoming noticeably drier and more sensitive. Furthermore, changes in collagen and hyaluronic acid affect texture significantly. Consequently, this makes the skin look much duller and fragile.
On the other hand, daily habits and exposure to external factors, like the sun or stress, can intensify effects. However, with information, consistency, and self-care, maintaining skin vitality and comfort during menopause is possible. Therefore, follow these lines to learn everything about the skin and menopause connection. Here is how you can care for your skin to feel good in every stage.
Skin and menopause: common changes during this stage
During menopause, skin undergoes natural transformations that reflect the body's hormonal changes accurately. Although these are normal processes, understanding them surely helps us make better care decisions. Thus, these changes can be the following:
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Skin dryness and loss of natural hydration. With the drop in oestrogens, sebaceous glands produce less sebum. This generates dryness, scaling, and annoying itching.
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Thinning and decreased collagen production. During the first five years after menopause, we lose up to 30% of collagen. This causes a decrease in structural collagen and results in thinner skin.
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Wrinkle formation and flaccidity. The lower elasticity of connective tissue predisposes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. This happens especially on the face and neck area.
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Changes in texture and skin sensitivity. Skin sensitivity increases clearly, provoking more frequent reactions to cosmetics or extreme climates.
In summary, these signs reflect loss of elasticity and the natural imbalance of the skin barrier. However, with an adequate routine, skin and menopause effects can be managed in an effective manner.
Why does menopause affect the skin?
Comprehending the link between skin and menopause helps create more effective strategies to prevent cutaneous deterioration. Oestrogens have a fundamental function in cell regeneration and also in the production of essential proteins. These proteins maintain the structure and firmness of cutaneous tissue; during this stage, oestrogen levels decrease directly. It reduces the production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid.
Such elements are fundamental for conserving hydration, elasticity, and luminosity of the skin naturally. When their levels drop, the skin undoubtedly loses density, volume, and brightness. Consequently, that favours dryness, flaccidity, and a much duller appearance. Furthermore, alterations in sebaceous and sweat glands reduce natural fat production (6). This limits the skin's capacity to retain moisture and stay protected from external agents.
Therefore, it is not just an aesthetic change. Skin and menopause influence each other, and understanding their relationship helps prevent discomfort. Also, it strengthens the cutaneous barrier and improves health in the long term.
Tips for skin care in menopause

Caring for skin in this stage requires consistency, adequate products, and a conscious routine. The important thing is to combine good habits with ingredients that reinforce the cutaneous barrier. Therefore, some recommendations for this are (2,3,5,6):
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Intensive hydration and use of specific products. Prefer formulas with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and niacinamide. They effectively retain water and calm skin dryness.
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Daily sun protection and antioxidants. Ultraviolet radiation accelerates wrinkle formation, so applying sunscreen every day is fundamental. Additionally, antioxidants like vitamin C prevent oxidative damage.
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A diet rich in nutrients that support the skin. Including proteins, fruits, and vegetables favours collagen production. This helps maintain loss of elasticity under control.
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Avoid smoking and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Sleeping well, moving, and managing stress are keys to cutaneous regeneration.
Of course, complementing your routine with makeup for mature skin can help you highlight your natural beauty. It maintains confidence. Thus, the relationship between skin and menopause can be lived from a positive and renewing perspective.
Common dermatological issues in menopause
During this stage, some women may notice additional discomfort. Although they are usually mild, it is convenient to know them so that you can act in time. Some include:
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Itching, irritation, and redness. The thinning of the skin and its lower protection make it prone to irritation (7).
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Changes in facial and body hair. Because of hormonal variations, it is common for hair to appear on the chin or jawline.
While these symptoms are habitual, it is always recommended to pay attention to their evolution. The health of the skin and menopause deserve constant care.
When to visit a specialist?
If you notice persistent itching, eczema, or inflammation that does not improve, consulting a dermatologist is best. In many cases, the use of medicated creams or specific topical therapies can relieve discomfort.
At Issviva, we believe that every woman deserves to feel comfortable in her own skin. For that reason, we invite you to explore more about the connection between skin and menopause. Explore the specialised products and expert advice we offer to accompany you in this stage. Know more at Issviva.
References
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NHS. Menopause — Symptoms [Internet]. NHS.UK; 2025 [cited 6 Nov 2025]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause/symptoms/
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British Skin Foundation. The impact of the menopause on your skin (with Dr Anjali Mahto) [Internet]. britishskinfoundation.org.uk; 3 Jul 2022 [cited 6 Nov 2025]. Available from: https://www.britishskinfoundation.org.uk/blog/the-impact-of-the-menopause-on-your-skin-with-dr-anjali-mahto
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My Menopause Centre. Skin, hair and nail changes during perimenopause and menopause [Internet]. mymenopausecentre.com; 7 Apr 2021 [cited 6 Nov 2025]. Available from: https://www.mymenopausecentre.com/symptoms/skin-changes/
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National Eczema Society. Menopause and eczema [Internet]. eczema.org; [cited 6 Nov 2025]. Available from: https://eczema.org/information-and-advice/living-with-eczema/menopause-and-eczema/
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NHS. Menopause — Treatment [Internet]. NHS.UK; [cited 6 Nov 2025]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause/treatment/
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NHS Inform. Signs and symptoms of menopause [Internet]. NHS Inform; 2025 [cited 6 Nov 2025]. Available from: https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/womens-health/later-years-around-50-years-and-over/menopause-and-post-menopause-health/signs-and-symptoms-of-menopause/
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Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. Treatment for symptoms of the menopause [Internet]. rcog.org.uk; 2018 [cited 6 Nov 2025]. Available from: https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-information/treatment-for-symptoms-of-the-menopause/
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