Menopause and Your Skin: What Changes and What Helps

Menopause and Your Skin: What Changes and What Helps

Many people notice their skin changing around menopause, often quite quickly. There is a clear reason for this, and a sensible, evidence-informed way to respond.

What the research shows

Estrogen plays a significant role in skin. A review in Dermato-Endocrinology describes how the fall in estrogen around menopause is associated with reduced collagen, drier skin, and decreased elasticity and firmness (Thornton, 2013, PMID 24194966). A later review similarly highlights estrogen's importance among the factors influencing skin ageing (Rzepecki et al., 2022, PMID 36017417). Some of the fastest collagen loss is reported in the early post-menopausal years.

A supportive routine

  • Prioritise hydration and barrier support, as skin often becomes drier.
  • Well-studied ingredients like vitamin A (retinoids) and vitamin C remain useful.
  • Daily sunscreen protects the collagen you have.
  • Speak with a doctor about broader menopause care, which is beyond skincare.

At Verdo we stock the Medik8 Crystal Retinal 10, a vitamin A serum, and the Medik8 Total Moisture for comfort and hydration.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. The studies cited are from peer-reviewed journals and are provided for educational context. Individual results vary. Speak with a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist before changing your routine. Verdo Cosmetics makes no therapeutic claims about the products or services mentioned.

Frequently asked questions

Why does skin change during menopause?
The fall in estrogen around menopause is associated with reduced collagen, drier skin and decreased elasticity and firmness (Thornton, 2013). Some of the fastest collagen loss is reported in the early post-menopausal years.
What skincare helps menopausal skin?
A routine that prioritises hydration and barrier support, with well-studied ingredients like retinoids and vitamin C, plus daily sunscreen to protect existing collagen. Individual needs vary.
Can skincare replace hormone changes?
No. Skincare can support the skin, but broader menopause care, including any hormonal treatment, is a medical matter to discuss with your doctor.
Is retinol good for menopausal skin?
Vitamin A (retinoids) is one of the most studied ingredients for signs of ageing and remains useful. Introduce it gradually, and always pair with daily sunscreen.
Back to blog