The Role of Oestrogen in Skin Health: Changes During Menopause & Peri-Menopause
As women transition through peri-menopause and menopause, many notice significant changes in their skin. One of the primary reasons for this is the decline in oestrogen, a hormone that plays a vital role in maintaining skin health, structure, and resilience.
Understanding how oestrogen impacts the skin — and what can be done to support it — can make this stage of life feel more manageable and empowering.
How Oestrogen Supports the Skin
Oestrogen is a key regulator of several skin functions. It helps to:
Stimulate Collagen & Elastin Production
Oestrogen encourages fibroblasts (skin cells) to produce collagen and elastin, which give the skin its firmness, elasticity, and strength.
Maintain Skin Thickness
By supporting dermal structure, oestrogen helps the skin remain plump and resilient.
Regulate Hydration & Oil Production
It boosts hyaluronic acid and sebum production, keeping the skin hydrated and supple.
Support Wound Healing & Blood Flow
Oestrogen enhances circulation and accelerates skin repair.
Protect Against Free Radical Damage
It has antioxidant effects, helping to reduce the impact of oxidative stress and environmental ageing.
What Happens When Oestrogen Declines?
During peri-menopause and menopause, oestrogen levels drop dramatically. This leads to a range of visible and functional skin changes:
Loss of Collagen: Around 30% of collagen is lost within the first five years post-menopause. This results in sagging, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Thinning Skin: Reduced cell turnover makes the skin more fragile and slower to heal.
Dryness & Itching: Decreased sebum and hyaluronic acid levels cause dehydration and sensitivity.
Pigmentation Changes: Hormonal imbalance can trigger uneven tone and hyperpigmentation.
Reduced Elasticity: Elastin fibres weaken, contributing to laxity and dullness.
How We Can Help the Skin
Although declining oestrogen is a natural process, there are many ways to support, protect, and rejuvenate the skin during this stage:
1. Medical-Grade Skincare
Retinoids to stimulate cell renewal and collagen production.
Hyaluronic Acid & Ceramides to restore hydration and barrier strength.
Vitamin C & Antioxidants to brighten skin and protect against oxidative damage.
2. Skin Needling & Regenerative Therapies
Microneedling stimulates new collagen and elastin production.
Exosomes or Growth Factor Treatments enhance skin repair and accelerate healing.
3. Injectable Treatments
Skin Boosters (e.g., Profhilo®) for deep hydration and improved elasticity.
Dermal Fillers to replace lost volume and support facial contours.
4. Lifestyle & Supportive Care
Daily SPF to prevent accelerated ageing.
A balanced diet rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, and phytoestrogens.
Regular exercise and quality sleep to support circulation and repair.
5. Hormone Therapy
Hormone replacement Therapies are not only used to improve Perimenopause and Menopause symptoms like hot flashes and stabilise mood shifts, but they can also have a positive effect on the skin.
Final Thoughts
The decline of oestrogen during peri-menopause and menopause can cause noticeable and sometimes frustrating changes in the skin — but with the right care, these changes can be managed effectively.
Through a personalised approach that combines science-backed skincare, advanced treatments, and lifestyle support, it’s possible to restore hydration, firmness, and radiance — helping you look and feel your best through every stage of life.
If you’d like to learn more about how we can support your skin during menopause, book a consultation with our Dermal Clinician today.