Dry, Itchy, and Fed Up? What Menopause Is Really Doing to Your Skin

Let’s talk about something no one warned us about:

Skin so dry it could qualify as kindling.

For many women, dry, flaky, itchy skin shows up in perimenopause like an uninvited guest — one that brings backup in the form of dullness, redness, fine lines and the odd spot (rude).

So What Exactly Is Going On?

The Oestrogen Effect (Or Rather, the Lack of It)

When oestrogen levels begin to fall in midlife, your skin takes notice. This powerful hormone affects collagen production, hydration, elasticity, and even skin thickness. Translation? Less oestrogen = skin that’s thinner, drier, and more sensitive.

Your natural oil (sebum) production also drops, leaving you feeling like you’re shedding your face by 3pm. The protective barrier that locks in moisture starts to falter, making your skin more prone to irritation, redness, and that tight, uncomfortable feeling after washing.

Oh, and let’s not forget the hot flushes and night sweats that can leave your skin feeling alternately Sahara-dry and swampy.

Soothing Strategies for Menopause Skin

1. Moisturise Like You Mean It

Switch to richer, hydrating creams (especially overnight), and look for ingredients like:

• Hyaluronic acid – draws water into the skin
• Ceramides – help repair your skin barrier
• Squalane – a lightweight oil that locks in moisture

Apply within a minute of washing to trap moisture before it escapes.

2. Try a Soothing 60-Second Face Massage

Before or after applying moisturiser or facial oil, take just a minute to give your skin a little love:

• Use your fingertips or knuckles to gently circle along your jawline
• Sweep upward over your cheeks in broad strokes
• Use your ring fingers to lightly tap around your eyes
• Massage your temples with small circular motions

This not only boosts circulation and helps your products absorb better, but it also calms the nervous system — great if stress is showing up on your face (or you’ve had one of those days).

Bonus tip: Keep your moisturiser or facial oil in the fridge for an added cooling, de-puffing effect.

3. Cleanse Gently

Ditch foaming cleansers and anything with alcohol. Opt for creamy, non-stripping cleansers that clean without leaving your skin tight.

4. Feed Your Face From the Inside

Omega-3 fats (think flaxseeds, walnuts, oily fish) help support your skin’s lipid barrier. Drink plenty of water and eat a variety of colourful veg for skin-loving antioxidants.

5. SPF Is Still Non-Negotiable

Even if you’re more concerned with hot flushes than holidays, SPF is essential. Menopause skin is more prone to pigmentation and sun damage.

6. Consider a Humidifier

Especially if you’re in a dry climate or use central heating/air con. Adding moisture to the air can really help keep your skin (and sinuses) happier.

7. And Yes, Hormones

For some women, HRT helps restore skin hydration and elasticity. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re struggling with multiple menopause symptoms, speak to your healthcare provider.

8. Exfoliate, but Gently

Skip the harsh scrubs. Use a mild enzyme exfoliant or a lactic acid product once or twice a week to slough away dead skin and help your moisturiser sink in.

Your Skin Is Changing — And That’s OK

Your skin may not bounce back quite like it did at 25, but it’s still capable of being healthy, radiant and comfortable — with the right support.

These changes don’t mean you’re “fading.” They just mean your body’s asking for a little more kindness and care.

And honestly, haven’t we earned it by now?