Wondering how to approach menopause skin care and tackle all of the changes that come along with it? We’ve got you covered in our complete menopause skin care guide!

The BEST Menopause Skin Care: Doctor Recommended Products!

Why do we even need to discuss menopause skin care? That’s a great question—and one we will explore thoroughly in this post—so let’s dive in!

Skin Changes in Menopause

Menopause brings about significant transformations throughout a woman’s body, and your skin is no exception. As estrogen levels decline, your skin undergoes noticeable changes that can feel frustrating and unfamiliar.

These shifts don’t happen overnight but develop gradually as you move through perimenopause into postmenopause. Understanding these changes is the first step toward addressing them effectively with the right skincare approach.

*This post contains affiliate links of products I have tried and found to be effective and helpful for my skin.  I may earn a commission if you use these links, but you can also save money as most links provide 10-30% off the retail price. 

Skin Changes in the Phases of Perimenopause

During the final stages of perimenopause—that transitional period before menopause officially begins—your body starts producing less estrogen, which plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health. This hormonal shift triggers several changes:

• Increased dryness: Your skin’s natural oil production decreases, sometimes leading to uncomfortable tightness and flakiness
• Loss of elasticity: The beginning of collagen breakdown (up to 30% in the first five years) makes skin less firm, and showing the appearance of more fine lines and wrinkles.
• Thinning skin: Estrogen helps maintain skin thickness; as levels drop, skin becomes more delicate
• Delayed healing: Minor cuts and scrapes take longer to heal than before

You might notice these changes happening unevenly, with some days feeling worse than others as hormone levels fluctuate. This inconsistency can make establishing an effective skincare routine challenging but all the more necessary.

In the initial stages of perimenopause skin can feel like you are going through puberty again (we often call perimenopause puberty in reverse).  To learn more about the changes in stage 1 of perimenopause, check out this blog. 

What Changes Happen After Menopause

Post-menopause, when you haven’t had a period for at least 12 months, skin changes can become more pronounced and consistent. According to DermNet NZ, up to 75% of women experience significant skin changes during this time.

The most common post-menopausal skin issues include:

• Pronounced dryness and itching: Some women develop asteatotic eczema due to extreme dryness.  Itchiness is also a common complaint in perimenopause and menopause.
• Accelerated collagen loss: Collagen decreases by approximately 2% per year after menopause
• Deeper wrinkles: Particularly around the mouth, eyes, and forehead
• Increased sensitivity: Skin can become more reactive to products and environmental factors
• Sagging: Especially noticeable along the jawline and neck

These changes occur because your skin has about 700 estrogen receptors per square millimeter, and when these receptors aren’t activated, your skin’s structure and function are significantly affected.

Skin Care Tips in Menopause

Adapting your skincare routine to address these hormonal changes doesn’t require a complete overhaul, but rather strategic adjustments focusing on hydration, protection, and repair. The goal is to support your skin’s changing needs rather than fighting an impossible battle against time.

Think of this as an opportunity to refine your approach to skincare, not as another challenge to overcome.

Ingredients to Look for in Skin Care Products in Menopause

When shopping for menopause-friendly skincare, certain ingredients stand out for their ability to address specific concerns:

• Retinol: This vitamin A derivative stimulates collagen production and accelerates cell turnover. Products like provide gradual improvement without excessive irritation.
  

  RoC Derm Correxion Fill + Treat Advanced Retinol Serum, Wrinkle Filler Treatment with Hyaluronic Acid for Crow's Feet, 11 Wrinkles, & Laugh Lines, (.5 fl oz) with Retinol Packette (Packaging May Vary)

  • WRINKLE FILLER TREATMENT: Developed with Dermatologists & Plastic Surgeons, this serum contains 3 forms of Hyaluronic Acid to instantly plump skin & fill in the look of wrinkles. Over time, pure RoC Retinol & Swertiamarin provide lasting improvements to deliver visibly smoother-looking skin. Refill available.
  • PROVEN RESULTS: In a clinical study, 97% of participants instantly had fine lines & wrinkles visibly plumped & filled - no injections needed. After 4 weeks, 100% had a visible improvement in the look of hard-to-treat wrinkles. Dermatologist tested. Fragrance-free. Paraben-free. Non-comedogenic. Phthalate-free.
  • ANTI-AGING FORMULAS: Whether you're looking for a solution for deep wrinkles, fine lines, dark circles, crow's feet, uneven skin tone or dry skin, we have an anti-aging formula that's right for you.
  • SCIENCE & BEAUTY: We produce a wide array of skin care products & treatments including daily moisturizers with SPF, hyaluronic and niacinamide acids, facial cleansers, vitamin C serums, retinol skin tone & wrinkle regimens & creams for under eyes, neck firming, decollete & much more.
  • SKIN CARE INNOVATION: Our products are recognized by beauty industry leaders & dermatologists for their best-in-class effectiveness. We continue to research & innovate new formulas for healthier skin.

  $29.97

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• Peptides: These amino acid chains signal your skin to produce more collagen. Herbal Face Food’s Botanical Elixir contains peptide-rich botanicals that help firm aging skin.  This serum is very effective, but also very expensive, of note you can save 30% off with this link.  I also like Quicksilver’s new Facial Beauty Serum with Copper Peptide.  Please note this product does contain estradiol and estriol, which can help skin elasticity but are also consider active bioidentical hormone replacement therapy ingredients.
• Hyaluronic acid: This moisture-binding molecule holds up to 1000 times its weight in water. The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is an affordable option that plumps and hydrates parched skin.
  

  The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides), Multi-Depth Hydration Serum for Plumper, Smoother Skin, 1 Fl Oz

  • INSTANT HYDRATION: Provides immediate, long-lasting hydration for smoother, plumper, and healthier-looking skin.
  • SUPPORTS SKIN BARRIER: Ceramides lock in moisture and support the skin’s protective barrier.
  • REDUCES FINE LINES: Minimizes the appearance of fine dry lines and wrinkles while promoting elasticity and skin smoothness.
  • PRO-VITAMIN B5: Enhances the skin's moisture retention and supports the formation of essential barrier components like ceramides.
  • 5 TYPES OF HYALURONIC ACID: Delivers hydration to multiple layers of the skin, improving moisture retention and skin suppleness.

  $9.90

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• Antioxidants: Ingredients like vitamin C, E, and niacinamide fight free radical damage. For a natural and awesome option to use at night Pacifica’s Vegan Ceramide Barrier Face Cream (get 15% off using this link) combines multiple antioxidants with ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier.
• Ceramides: These lipids help restore the skin’s protective barrier, reducing moisture loss and sensitivity (as noted above Pacifica makes an entire line of skin care devoted to ceramides).

The best approach often combines several of these ingredients in a layered routine, allowing each to work at its optimal potential.

Ingredients to Avoid in Skincare Products

Just as important as knowing what to include is understanding what to avoid. Certain ingredients can exacerbate menopausal skin concerns:

• Parabens: These preservatives can disrupt hormone function—something you definitely don’t need during menopause. Look for “paraben-free” on labels.
• Phthalates: Often hidden in “fragrance,” these chemicals may interfere with hormone activity and increase skin sensitivity.
• Alcohol-heavy formulas: Ingredients like denatured alcohol can strip already dry skin of essential moisture.
• Harsh sulfates: Sodium lauryl sulfate and similar cleansing agents can disrupt your skin’s delicate pH balance.
• Artificial fragrances: These common additives often trigger irritation in sensitive menopausal skin.

Many brands now prominently highlight what they exclude as well as what they include. Pacifica Beauty, for example, clearly labels its products as free from parabens, phthalates, and other potentially problematic ingredients.

How Nutrition and Hydration Play a Role in Healthy Skin in Menopause

What you put into your body affects your skin just as much as what you apply topically. During menopause, nutrition becomes an even more powerful tool for maintaining skin health from the inside out.

The connection between diet and skin becomes particularly evident as hormonal changes affect how your body processes nutrients and distributes hydration.

Hydration for Skin in Menopause

Water intake becomes increasingly crucial during menopause, as cellular hydration decreases naturally with age and hormonal changes. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses daily, but remember that hydration comes in many forms.

Consider these hydration strategies specifically beneficial for menopausal skin:

• Incorporate hydrating foods like cucumber, watermelon, and celery
• Limit dehydrating beverages like alcohol and caffeine
• Use a humidifier in dry environments, especially while sleeping
• Choose skincare with humectants that draw water into the skin
• Consider electrolyte supplements if you’re active or live in a hot climate

According to L’Oreal Paris, proper hydration can reduce the appearance of fine lines by up to 25%, making it one of the simplest yet most effective strategies for menopausal skin.

Gut Health in Menopause and Effect on Skin

The gut-skin axis takes center stage during menopause as digestive changes often coincide with skin issues. Hormonal fluctuations can alter gut flora balance, potentially triggering inflammation that manifests on the skin as redness, sensitivity, or acne.

Focusing on gut health can yield surprising benefits for your skin:

• Incorporate fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut
• Add prebiotic fiber from foods like garlic, onions, and bananas
• Consider a probiotic supplement specifically formulated for women over 45
• Reduce inflammatory foods like refined sugar and processed carbohydrates
• Stay consistent with mealtimes to support digestive rhythm

Many women report skin clarity and resilience improvements within weeks of making gut-friendly dietary changes, highlighting the powerful connection between digestive and skin health.

I have MANY gut health related videos on my YouTube channel.  Here’s a recent popular gut health video that highlights one of my favorite products to help boost gut health.  If you are looking for more info probiotics, repairing a damaged gut, and boosting a healthy gut environment check out this playlist. 

Collagen for Skin in Menopause

Collagen production declines dramatically during menopause, with some studies suggesting a 30% drop in the first five years alone. This structural protein is essential for skin firmness and elasticity, making supplementation worth considering.

Products like Happy Mammoth’s Prebiotic Collagen Protein combine grass-fed collagen with gut-supporting prebiotics, addressing two menopausal concerns simultaneously. These dual-action supplements can help maintain skin structure while supporting digestive health.

When selecting collagen supplements, look for:

• Types I and III collagen (most beneficial for skin)
• Additional ingredients like vitamin C that boost collagen synthesis
• Hydrolyzed formulas for better absorption
• Quality sourcing (marine or grass-fed bovine)
• Complementary ingredients that support gut health

While no supplement can completely reverse collagen loss, consistent supplementation may help slow the process and support your skin’s natural repair mechanisms.
Some other favorite collagen brands include the popular line from Vital Nutrients, or vegan collagen building options like this from Sun Warrior:

Recommended Skin Care Routine in Menopause

Creating an effective skincare routine during menopause means balancing gentleness with efficacy. Your skin needs more support but often tolerates less intensity, requiring a thoughtful approach to product selection and application.

The ideal routine addresses multiple concerns simultaneously without overwhelming your skin’s compromised barrier function.

Face Wash

The foundation of any skincare routine is proper cleansing, but menopausal skin requires special consideration. Harsh cleansers can strip already diminished natural oils, exacerbating dryness and irritation.

Look for gentle, cream-based or oil-based cleansers that clean effectively without disrupting your skin’s delicate balance. Products like Pacifica’s Vegan Ceramide Gentle Face Wash combine ceramides with coconut water to cleanse while reinforcing the skin barrier.

For best results:

• Cleanse with lukewarm (never hot) water
• Limit washing to once or twice daily
• Use fingertips rather than abrasive cloths
• Pat (don’t rub) skin dry with a soft towel
• Apply subsequent products while skin is still slightly damp

This gentle approach preserves your skin’s natural moisture while preparing it to receive the beneficial ingredients in your serums and moisturizers.

Serum

Serums deliver concentrated active ingredients that target specific concerns. For menopausal skin, multi-functional serums that address several issues simultaneously offer the most efficient approach.

Products like Herbal Face Food’s Botanical Serum contains 78 bioactive botanicals rich in natural peptides and antioxidants that help restore vitality to aging skin. The Copper Peptides in Quicksilvers Facial Beauty Serum are also very effective for wrinkles, fine lines, and elasticity of the skin.  Or the hyaluronic based product mentioned above from the Ordinary can help repair damaged skin, all while being more friendly to your wallet than the other options. These lightweight formulas penetrate deeply without feeling heavy or greasy.

Apply serum to clean, slightly damp skin, focusing on:

• Areas with increased wrinkles or texture changes
• Zones of hyperpigmentation or uneven tone
• Regions with noticeable volume loss
• Areas of increased sensitivity or redness
• The often-neglected neck and décolletage

Allow your serum to absorb for 30-60 seconds before applying moisturizer to maximize its effectiveness.

Moisturizer

Moisturizers for menopausal skin need to work harder than ever, providing intense hydration while supporting barrier repair and addressing age-related concerns. Look for formulas that combine immediate relief with long-term benefits.

Pacifica’s Vegan Ceramide Barrier Face Cream offers an excellent balance, with ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier, hyaluronic acid for hydration, and antioxidants to fight free radical damage. The cruelty-free, clean formula avoids problematic ingredients like parabens and phthalates.  I also love Mad Hippie and use their face cream quite often as well.

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For optimal results:

• Apply moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp from serum
• Use upward motions to counteract gravity’s effects
• Extend application to neck, chest, and backs of hands
• Consider a richer formula for nighttime use
• Allow 5-10 minutes before applying makeup

Don’t forget sun protection—a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is essential every day, regardless of weather or season, as menopausal skin is more vulnerable to UV damage.

Conclusion

Navigating skin changes during menopause can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, it’s possible to maintain healthy, comfortable skin throughout this transition. The key lies in understanding how declining estrogen affects your skin and responding with targeted care.

By selecting products with beneficial ingredients like retinol, peptides, and hyaluronic acid while avoiding potential irritants like parabens and phthalates, you create a foundation for skin health. Complementing these external approaches with internal support through proper hydration, gut health, and collagen supplementation creates a comprehensive strategy for menopausal skin.

Remember that consistency matters more than complexity—finding gentle, effective products you’ll use regularly yields better results than an elaborate routine you can’t maintain. Your skin’s needs will continue evolving through perimenopause and beyond, so remain flexible and attentive to how it responds to different approaches.

With thoughtful care and the right products, you can help your skin adapt to hormonal changes while maintaining its health, comfort, and resilience during this significant life transition.