Menopause skin: what changes and how to look after it
TL;DR
Menopause skin often becomes drier, thinner, more sensitive and slower to repair, because falling oestrogen affects collagen and the skin's barrier. A gentle routine with rich moisturisers and daily SPF helps, and treatments such as microneedling, gentle peels and SKINSTORM can boost hydration, glow and firmness. Speak to your GP about menopause symptoms that affect your wellbeing.
Menopause skin can feel like it has changed almost overnight. Many women notice dryness, sensitivity, dullness, new breakouts or fine lines during perimenopause and menopause, even if their skin was easy to look after before.
This guide explains why menopause changes your skin, what to adjust in your routine and which salon treatments can help. Gina has over 10 years' experience in the beauty industry and specialises in skincare, so this is the same advice we give clients going through menopause at our Sutton Coldfield salon.
Quick facts
- Why it changes
- falling oestrogen affects collagen, oil and the skin's barrier
- Common signs
- dryness, sensitivity, dullness, fine lines and loss of firmness
- Routine
- gentle cleanser, rich moisturiser, hydrating serum and daily SPF
- Treatments that can help
- microneedling, gentle peels and SKINSTORM
- Price
- microneedling from £100, peels from £40, SKINSTORM from £175
- See a GP
- for menopause symptoms affecting your wellbeing
- First step
- a free skin consultation
How does menopause skin change?
Menopause skin changes mainly because oestrogen falls. Oestrogen helps the skin make collagen, hold moisture and keep a strong barrier, so as levels drop, skin can become drier, thinner and less firm. The NHS lists skin changes, including dry and itchy skin among the symptoms of menopause and perimenopause.
- Dryness: skin produces less oil and loses water more easily.
- Loss of firmness: collagen declines, so fine lines and sagging become more noticeable.
- Sensitivity: a weaker barrier can make skin react to products more easily.
- Dullness: cell turnover slows, so dead skin builds up.
- Breakouts: hormonal shifts can still cause spots, especially around the jaw.
How should you change your routine for menopause skin?
Menopause skin usually needs more hydration and a gentler touch. Swap foaming cleansers for creamy ones, add a hydrating serum, use a richer moisturiser and wear SPF every day. If you use retinol, introduce it slowly and pair it with plenty of moisture.
- Cleanse gently with a cream or balm cleanser.
- Apply a hyaluronic acid serum to damp skin.
- Use a moisturiser with ceramides, peptides or fatty acids.
- Finish with SPF 30 or higher every morning.
The American Academy of Dermatology's tips for relieving dry skin also apply here, including short, lukewarm showers and moisturising straight after washing.
Gina's tip: Don't just keep using the products that worked in your thirties. Menopause skin usually needs more hydration and fewer harsh actives, so review your routine every few months.
Which treatments help menopause skin?
The best treatments for menopause skin support collagen, hydration and gentle renewal without overwhelming the skin.
Microneedling
Microneedling creates tiny channels in the skin to stimulate collagen, which can help with firmness, fine lines and texture over a course.
Gentle chemical peels
Our chemical peels help shed dull, dead skin and brighten tone. We usually start gently, as menopausal skin can be more sensitive.
SKINSTORM
A SKINSTORM facial combines deep cleansing, oxygen infusion and light therapy for a boost of hydration and glow.
When to see a GP
If menopause symptoms are affecting your sleep, mood or daily life, speak to your GP about support and treatment options. Very itchy, sore or broken skin is also worth getting checked.
How much do treatments for menopause skin cost?
At Gina Rose Beauty, microneedling starts from £100, chemical peels from £40 and SKINSTORM from £175. We'll recommend the right plan for your menopause skin at your free consultation.
About the author
Gina is the owner of Gina Rose Beauty in Sutton Coldfield and has over 10 years' experience in the beauty industry. She specialises in advanced skincare and runs a fully accredited training academy for aspiring beauty professionals. Meet Gina and the team. Last reviewed: October 2026.
Book a free skin consultation in Sutton Coldfield
Noticed your skin changing? Book a free, no-obligation consultation and we'll help you build a routine and treatment plan that works for your skin now. Book your free skin consultation on Fresha
You can also read more about what happens at a skin consultation, microneedling, or explore all our skincare treatments.
Frequently asked questions
How does menopause affect skin?
Menopause skin often becomes drier, thinner, more sensitive and less firm, because falling oestrogen affects collagen, oil production and the skin's barrier.
What is the best skincare for menopause skin?
For menopause skin, use a gentle cleanser, a hydrating serum, a rich moisturiser and SPF every day, and introduce actives such as retinol slowly.
Does skin change in perimenopause?
Yes. Many women notice dryness, sensitivity, dullness or breakouts during perimenopause, before periods stop.
Can microneedling help menopausal skin?
It can help stimulate collagen, which may improve firmness, fine lines and texture over a course of treatments.
Are chemical peels suitable for menopausal skin?
Often, yes. We usually start with gentler peels, as menopausal skin can be more sensitive.
Why am I getting spots during menopause?
Hormonal shifts can still trigger breakouts, often around the jaw and chin.
Is the skin consultation free?
Yes. Our consultation is free and there's no obligation to book a treatment.