Six common skin mistakes to avoid in menopause
14 October 2024
By Dr Sophie Shotter

Menopause marks a significant change in a woman’s life, often accompanied by a variety of physical symptoms, one of the most visible being changes in the skin. As hormone levels fluctuate and decline, the skin undergoes various transformations, leaving it more susceptible to issues like dryness, sagging, and increased sensitivity. Understanding these changes and how to address them effectively can help maintain healthy skin during this transition. However, many make certain mistakes in their skincare routines that may exacerbate the problem rather than solve it.
What happens to the skin during menopause?
Menopause brings about a significant drop in oestrogen levels, which impacts various systems in the body, including the skin. Oestrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining the skin’s hydration, elasticity, and overall appearance. When oestrogen levels decrease, the production of collagen slows down, leading to a loss of skin firmness and an increase in wrinkles. The skin may also become thinner, drier, and more prone to irritation. Furthermore, reduced oil production can leave the skin feeling parched, and its ability to heal itself diminishes, which may increase the likelihood of sensitivity and inflammation.
These changes are natural, but they can lead to frustration as many women find their skin no longer responds to the same products or routines that once worked for them. Adjusting your skincare to accommodate these changes is essential, but it’s easy to fall into common traps. Below are the five most common mistakes people make when addressing menopausal skin.
Using the same products you’ve always used
As we age, our skin undergoes various transformations, and continuing to use the same products you’ve relied on for years may not yield the same results. Women over the age of 40 often experience an increase in dryness, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and even hormonal acne due to fluctuating hormone levels and a natural decline in collagen production. While it’s tempting to stick with tried-and-true favourites, mature skin often requires a different approach and ingredients tailored to its evolving needs.
Retinol, for example, is one of the most effective ingredients for promoting cell turnover and reducing the appearance of wrinkles. However, if you’ve never used retinol before, it’s important to introduce it slowly to avoid irritation, as mature skin is often more sensitive. Similarly, hyaluronic acid is a powerful hydrating ingredient that helps plump the skin by retaining moisture, which is particularly useful as the skin becomes drier with age.
Niacinamide and vitamin C are also vital ingredients for addressing the common concerns of ageing skin, such as uneven skin tone and pigmentation. Niacinamide helps to calm inflammation and improve the skin barrier, while vitamin C brightens the skin and fights free radical damage. These ingredients, when used together, can significantly improve the overall appearance of mature skin.
Over-exfoliating or using harsh products
When the skin loses moisture and becomes drier, many women are tempted to exfoliate more frequently to remove dead skin cells. However, this can backfire. Over-exfoliation strips the skin of its natural oils, which are already diminished due to hormonal changes, leaving it more vulnerable to irritation and inflammation. Harsh scrubs and chemical exfoliants can also cause microscopic tears in the skin, leading to further damage and sensitivity.
A gentler approach is recommended. Opt for mild exfoliants with soothing ingredients like polyhydroxy acids or enzymes that gently slough off dead skin without stripping essential moisture. Limiting exfoliation to once or twice a week allows the skin to recover and minimises irritation.
Ignoring collagen decline
A common oversight during menopause is neglecting the impact of oestrogen loss on collagen production. Oestrogen plays a key role in stimulating collagen synthesis, which helps keep skin firm and plump. With menopause, the rapid decline in oestrogen levels leads to decreased collagen levels, resulting in increased skin sagging and the formation of deeper wrinkles.
To combat collagen decline, incorporate skincare products with ingredients known to support collagen synthesis and skin elasticity. Look for products containing retinoids, vitamin C, peptides, and growth factors. These ingredients can help stimulate collagen production and strengthen the skin’s structure. Additionally, consider professional treatments like RF microneedling, skin boosters, or Sofwave which can also promote collagen regeneration. I think that collagen supplementation is also very beneficial alongside collagen-stimulating treatments, as it gives your body the building blocks to make its own collagen.
Neglecting moisturisation
As oestrogen levels decrease, the skin produces less oil, which leads to increased dryness. This dryness can be exacerbated by using inadequate or the wrong types of moisturisers. Some may continue using lightweight, oil-free lotions that suited them in their younger years, but menopausal skin often requires richer, more nourishing creams to restore moisture balance.
Look for moisturisers containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin, which help to lock in moisture and support the skin barrier. Applying a thick cream or balm immediately after cleansing while the skin is still slightly damp can also help to maximise hydration.
Using anti-ageing products too aggressively
The signs of ageing become more apparent during menopause, and it’s understandable that many women reach for anti-aging products in response. However, layering too many active ingredients like retinoids, alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), or vitamin C can overwhelm the skin, causing irritation and redness. Menopausal skin is more delicate and less resilient, so it’s important to introduce these potent ingredients gradually.
Instead of using multiple anti-ageing products all at once, start with one active ingredient and allow your skin time to adjust. Retinoids, for instance, are highly effective for reducing wrinkles and promoting collagen production, but they can be drying and irritating. Begin by applying retinoids every other night and slowly increase frequency as your skin builds tolerance.
Ignoring lifestyle changes
Skincare isn’t just about what you put on your skin—it’s also about what you put into your body. During menopause, many women overlook the importance of nutrition, hydration, and overall lifestyle changes in maintaining healthy skin. Poor dietary choices, lack of sleep, and dehydration can all exacerbate skin issues like dryness, dullness, and wrinkles.
Incorporating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and vitamins can help improve skin health from the inside out. Foods like salmon, nuts, leafy greens, and berries provide essential nutrients that support skin elasticity and hydration. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is also key, as it helps to maintain the skin’s moisture levels.
If you’d like more help, or to establish a skincare regime that works for you in menopause, click here to enquire or to book a consultation.
