Menopause brings many changes, but one that can sometimes be overlooked is its effect on the skin. If your complexion feels drier, more sensitive or less firm than it used to, hormonal changes could be contributing to what you are experiencing.
At Blackabey’s – The Happy Skin Company in Collingham, near Wetherby and Leeds, we believe understanding your skin is the first step towards caring for it effectively. Here, we explore how menopause can influence skin health and the steps you can take to support your complexion through this stage of life.
How does menopause affect your skin?
Oestrogen plays an important role in maintaining skin structure, hydration and elasticity. During perimenopause and menopause, changing and declining oestrogen levels can influence collagen production, skin moisture and the skin’s natural barrier.
These changes can overlap with the natural ageing process, making it difficult to identify exactly what is responsible for a particular concern.
Research commissioned by dermatology company Galderma, published ahead of World Menopause Day 2026, found that 56% of surveyed women initially mistook menopause-related skin changes for general ageing. The findings highlight the importance of understanding the potential hormonal influences on skin health.
Five common menopausal skin changes
Every woman’s experience is different, but some changes may become more noticeable during perimenopause and menopause.
1. Increased dryness
Skin may feel tight, rough or less comfortable as its ability to retain moisture changes. A moisturiser that previously worked well might no longer provide the same level of comfort.
2. Greater sensitivity
Some women notice increased reactivity, redness or stinging when using skincare products. Supporting the skin barrier and reviewing potentially irritating ingredients may help.
3. Changes in firmness and elasticity
Collagen contributes to the skin’s structure and firmness. Hormonal changes can influence collagen levels, potentially contributing to changes in skin texture and the appearance of fine lines.
4. Changes in texture
Skin may appear less smooth or feel different to the touch. Hydration, sun exposure, genetics and other factors can also influence texture, so an individual assessment is important.
5. Reduced skin resilience
Skin that feels more easily irritated or takes longer to feel comfortable after using active ingredients may benefit from a gentler, carefully reviewed skincare routine.
How can you support menopausal skin at home?
A more complicated routine is not necessarily a better one. The aim is to choose products that meet your skin’s current needs rather than following a generic anti-ageing routine.
Start with a gentle cleanser that does not leave your skin feeling stripped. Use a moisturiser suited to your skin to support hydration and barrier function, and apply broad-spectrum SPF 30–50 daily to help protect against ultraviolet damage.
Ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid and ceramides can be useful options for supporting hydration and the skin barrier. Other active ingredients may also have a role, but their suitability depends on your skin’s condition, tolerance and existing routine.
If your usual products suddenly cause discomfort, review your routine rather than automatically adding more products. Persistent irritation or new, unexplained skin changes should be assessed by an appropriate healthcare professional.
How can professional skincare help?
A personalised skin consultation can help identify your main concerns, review your current homecare and establish realistic priorities.
At Blackabey’s, our approach begins with understanding your skin before recommending treatments. Depending on your individual assessment, options may include tailored medical facials, chemical peels or microneedling, where appropriate.
Not every treatment is suitable for every client, particularly when the skin is sensitive or its barrier is compromised. Treatment selection, preparation and aftercare should therefore be tailored to the individual.
A considered homecare plan may be just as important as an in-clinic treatment, helping you maintain a consistent routine that suits your skin over time.
Your skin, your stage of life
Menopause-related skin changes are common, but you do not have to navigate confusing skincare advice alone. Understanding the possible influence of hormonal changes can help you make more informed choices and focus on what your skin needs now.
At Blackabey’s – The Happy Skin Company in Collingham, we offer personalised skin consultations and tailored skincare advice for clients across Wetherby, Leeds and the surrounding areas.
If your skin has changed and you are unsure where to start, to discuss a personalised approach to your skincare.
Blackabey’s – The Happy Skin Company
Premium Beauty Skincare and Medical Aesthetics
