During menopause and the years leading up to it, a woman’s body undergoes a series of changes. Some changes may be welcomed, but others can be uncomfortable and unwanted. Keep reading to see how menopause can change your hair and skin, and learn what steps you can take to help.*

How menopause affects your hair and skin

One of the main changes that occurs during menopause is decreasing estrogen levels. Known as the primary female sex hormone, estrogen also helps your skin stay moist and plump. As estrogen levels drop, your skin can become drier and thinner, and sink toward the bone. Estrogen also plays a role in how full your hair is. Declining estrogen often leads to hair that’s thin and sparse.

Common changes

While everyone experiences menopause differently, here are the most common changes you may see, along with some tips to counter them.

Sagging skin

Estrogen plays a role in how much collagen is in your skin. Collagen is a protein that keeps your skin tight and full of volume. As estrogen levels drop, your skin loses collagen, and the skin begins to sag. 

Some people take collagen supplements or eat high-collagen foods to try and avoid this, but there is not enough evidence to suggest this actually helps. A facial massage using your favorite moisturizer or oil may be a better option, as it can stimulate your skin’s collagen production.

Dry skin and acne

In general, simple at-home remedies can soothe dry or acne-prone skin. Here are some tips that may help:

• Use gentle cleansers. Wash your skin each day to remove dirt and makeup, but choose a gentle, non-foaming cleanser that is made for sensitive skin. Use a gentle cleanser with a small amount of salicylic acid or visit a dermatologist if you are having post-menopausal acne.
• Apply moisturizer each day. Choose moisturizers that have hyaluronic acid to help your skin hold onto water. 
• Avoid ingredients that can irritate your skin. Unnecessary ingredients like fragrance, colors, or alcohol can irritate your skin and lead to breakouts. Instead, choose ones that are fragrance-free and colorless.
• Limit hot showers. A warm shower is fine, but taking long, hot showers can remove your skin’s natural oils. Make sure to apply moisturizer as soon as you dry off. Slightly damp skin absorbs moisture better.

Age spots

Age spots, or dark spots, are common after menopause, but they can be difficult to treat on your own. If they bother you, and if over-the-counter creams aren’t working, call your doctor. They may suggest a prescription, facial peel, or laser treatment to help get rid of them.

Facial Hair

The hormone changes that come with menopause can sometimes lead to unwanted hair on your lip or chin. Plucking or waxing can be a temporary fix. Permanent solutions, such as laser hair removal or electrolysis, are also available.

Hair loss

Low levels of estrogen may cause your hair to thin out. Taking care of your scalp is one way to promote hair growth. If you have a dry scalp, use a gentle shampoo and wash less often. If it’s oily, you may need to wash it every day.

Self-care is important

While many menopause symptoms may not be enjoyable, you can still boost your overall well-being. Live your healthiest life by eating a well-rounded and healthy diet, getting plenty of exercise and sleep, and getting regular checkups from your doctor. 

* Here’s How Menopause Affects Your Skin and Hair. (2021, February 19). Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved June 27, 2022, from https://health.clevelandclinic.org/heres-how-menopause-affects-your-skin-and-hair/