Hormonal Health
How perimenopause and menopause can affect skin
Hormonal change can coincide with dryness, altered sensitivity, reduced elasticity and hair changes, but individual patterns vary and not every concern is caused by menopause.
This article provides general educational information only. It is not a diagnosis, personal medical advice or a substitute for assessment by an appropriate regulated health professional.
Perimenopause and menopause involve changing ovarian hormone patterns. Skin has hormone-responsive structures, so some women notice changes in comfort, hydration, elasticity, wound healing, pigmentation or hair at the same time. These are broad patterns, not a diagnosis and not a universal experience.
Dryness and barrier comfort
Reduced water content, sebum and barrier resilience can contribute to skin that feels drier, tighter or more reactive. Products that were previously comfortable may begin to sting. A simpler routine with a gentle cleanser, moisturizer and daily sun protection is often a sensible place to start while you work out what your skin now tolerates.
Texture, thickness and elasticity
Research associates estrogen decline with changes in collagen, elasticity and skin thickness. Age, cumulative ultraviolet exposure, genetics, smoking, health, medicines and routine also influence these features. A line or change in texture cannot be attributed to hormones from appearance alone.
Pigment and healing
Uneven pigmentation may become more noticeable, but a new, changing, bleeding or non-healing mark requires appropriate medical assessment rather than a cosmetic treatment. Skin may also recover differently from procedures, which is one reason treatment intensity and timing should be individualized.
Hair change has several possible causes
Some women notice increased shedding or reduced density during hormonal transition. Pattern hair loss is only one possibility. Sudden, patchy or unexplained loss, scalp symptoms, or hair change accompanied by other health concerns should be assessed before PRP or another aesthetic option is considered.
Keep medical menopause care separate
HRT and medical menopause care begin with an individual medical assessment. Dr Sundeep Varma provides this care through Capilano Medical Centre & Walk-in.
Within London & Glow, menopause-informed care means listening to hormonal context without assuming it explains every concern or that treatment is needed. A consultation may lead to a simple skincare change, an aesthetic option, watchful waiting or referral.