Glowing through menopause: Skincare secrets for combatting dryness and loss of elasticity

You may have noticed that your skin feels different as you move through menopause - drier, less plump, or even more sensitive. These changes can be frustrating, especially if your tried-and-true skincare routine suddenly feels like it’s not enough. But what’s actually happening beneath the surface?

When oestrogen levels dip during menopause, it affects everything from hydration to elasticity. Oestrogen plays a key role in collagen production, keeping your skin firm, smooth, and resilient. It also supports the production of natural oils that lock in moisture. With these levels dropping, your skin may become thinner, drier, and more prone to wrinkles. On top of that, slower cell turnover can leave skin looking dull and tired. The result? A complexion that needs a bit of extra TLC.

Hydration is everything

One of the first noticeable effects of menopause is skin dryness. Addressing this starts with hydration - from both the inside and out. Drinking plenty of water is crucial, but so is choosing products that replenish your skin’s moisture barrier. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, keeping your skin plump and hydrated.

Adding a probiotic supplement to your routine can also work wonders. Probiotics improve your gut health, which in turn supports skin hydration and reduces inflammation. A product like The Protector, which blends probiotics and adaptogens, helps restore balance from within.

Upgrade your cleanser

A common mistake many make is using a harsh cleanser, especially as skin becomes more sensitive during menopause. Soaps and foaming cleansers can strip away your skin’s natural oils, exacerbating dryness. Instead, switch to a cream-based or oil-based cleanser that gently removes impurities without disrupting your skin barrier.

If your skin feels tight after cleansing, it’s a sign to go gentler. Bonus points if your cleanser contains calming ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile.

Focus on collagen

As oestrogen levels drop, so does collagen - the protein responsible for skin’s firmness and elasticity. Luckily, you can stimulate collagen production with the right skincare ingredients. Retinoids, peptides, and vitamin C are all proven to boost collagen and improve skin texture. Retinoids, while effective, can be drying, so always follow up with a deeply hydrating moisturiser.

Collagen supplements can also help. Products like our Collagen Boost are designed to support elasticity from the inside out, giving your skin the building blocks it needs to stay firm.

SPF is your best friend

Skin becomes more vulnerable to sun damage as you age, and menopause can amplify this sensitivity. UV exposure not only increases the risk of skin cancer but also breaks down collagen, accelerating signs of aging like wrinkles and sagging. A broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is a non-negotiable step in your skincare routine, rain or shine. For an extra boost, look for sunscreens infused with antioxidants to combat free radicals.

Nighttime is repair time

Your skin works hardest to repair itself while you sleep, making nighttime the perfect opportunity to deliver intense hydration. Night creams with ceramides, shea butter, or squalane can help restore moisture and strengthen your skin barrier. Facial oils are also an excellent addition for menopausal skin. Products like Intimate Harmony, while designed for intimate care, can double as a rich, nourishing oil for your face.

Apply your products generously at night and let them work their magic while you rest.

Don’t neglect your neck and hands

Menopause doesn’t just impact the skin on your face. Your neck and hands often show signs of aging first, so extend your skincare routine to these areas. Use your serums, moisturisers, and sunscreen on your neck and the backs of your hands to keep them looking their best.

Supporting your skin with lifestyle changes

It’s not just what you put on your skin that matters - it’s how you support it from within. A nutrient-dense diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids (found in salmon and walnuts) and antioxidants (from berries and green tea) can provide the building blocks your skin needs. Regular exercise improves circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to skin cells. And of course, managing stress and getting enough sleep help keep inflammation and cortisol levels in check, which is vital for healthy skin.

Menopause brings inevitable changes to your skin, but with the right care and attention, you can keep it hydrated, firm, and glowing.