Menopause and Skin Transformation
Table of Contents
- Menopause and Skin Transformation
- The Hormonal Element of Skin Changes
- Skin Conditions and Solutions
- Management and Support
Menopause will mark a significant biological milestone in a woman’s life, bringing with it a cascade of physiological changes that extend beyond hot flushes and mood shifts. Your skin, a dynamic organ intricately linked to hormonal fluctuations, experiences profound transformations during this transitional period.
At The Doctors Laser Clinic, our expert practitioners understand the complex relationship between hormonal shifts and skin health. This article aims to provide insights into the intricate ways menopause influences your skin, and more importantly, what skincare options you have open to you. We also run a menopause clinic at The Doctors Laser Clinic with Dr Kathy Kestin.
The Hormonal Element of Skin Changes
Oestrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining skin vitality. As hormone levels decline during menopause, your skin undergoes significant structural and functional changes. The reduction in oestrogen triggers a domino effect on key skin components:
Collagen Production
Collagen, the protein responsible for skin’s structural integrity, experiences a dramatic decline. Women can lose up to 30% of their collagen within the first five years of menopause, leading to decreased skin density and resilience.
Sebum Dynamics
Sebum production shifts dramatically. Younger skin might have more of a battle when it comes to excess oil, your menopausal skin often becomes drier as sebaceous gland activity reduces, compromising the skin’s natural moisture barrier.
Skin Elasticity
The gradual breakdown of elastin and reduced collagen synthesis results in decreased skin elasticity. This will manifest as subtle changes in skin texture and the emergence of fine lines.
Skin Conditions and Solutions
Menopause brings about profound changes in skin elasticity and overall structure. Recognising these changes allows for proactive skincare strategies. Our recommended Medik8 skincare range offers targeted solutions designed to address menopausal skin concerns, providing advanced hydration and supporting skin renewal.
For patients seeking intensive rejuvenation, the Calecim Professional range offers formulations that support skin regeneration while the skin is in this transformative phase. Below are the common skin conditions a woman may experience, and the solutions we offer in clinic.
Dry Skin (Xerosis)
Calecim Professional Restorative Hydration Cream (Moisturiser)
An intensive daily moisturiser formulated to combat menopausal dryness. It deeply hydrates and replenishes dry, dull skin with a blend of stem cell-derived proteins (PTT-6®) and soothing botanicals. The growth factors and hyaluronic acid in PTT-6 boost the skin’s moisture retention and repair the barrier, while aloe vera calms irritation, relieving the tight, flaky feeling of dry menopausal skin. Use it morning and night on clean skin (face and neck) to restore hydration and comfort.
When to use: Use this product when your skin feels tight and flaky due to menopausal dryness. Ideal for daily application—both morning and night—to quickly restore moisture and maintain a healthy skin barrier.
Medik8 Ultimate Recovery Intense (Cream)
A rich at-home repair cream designed for very dry or compromised skin. It creates a protective barrier over the skin to lock in moisture and shield against irritants while the skin heals. Key ingredients like allantoin and beta-glucan support the natural healing process and quickly relieve dryness and roughness. Apply as needed (especially at night or after in-clinic treatments) to severely dry areas to soften flakes and strengthen the skin’s barrier.
When to use: This cream is best for use when your skin is extremely dry or compromised, such as after treatments. Apply as required to provide immediate relief and protection for severely dry areas.
.
Itchiness (Pruritus)
Calecim Professional Recovery Night Complex (Overnight Mask)
A calming overnight treatment gel cream for irritated, itchy skin. It’s packed with anti-inflammatory factors: PTT-6® growth factors to accelerate skin repair and 5% niacinamide to reduce sensitivity and redness. The formula helps calm inflammation and soothes itchiness associated with menopausal dryness. Apply 5 pumps at night to itchy or sensitive areas after cleansing; leave on overnight and rinse off in the morning. It hydrates and comforts the skin while you sleep, reducing itching by morning.
When to use: Use this overnight mask when experiencing itchiness and irritation from menopausal dryness. Its calming properties make it ideal for bedtime application to soothe and refresh your skin by morning.
Medik8 Calmwise Serum
Medik8’s Calmwise Serum (see Rosacea) or a gentle moisturiser can be used to soothe itchy, sensitive skin. Ingredients like niacinamide and teprenone help strengthen the skin barrier and reduce irritation, which in turn relieves itching by making skin less reactive. Using a calming serum twice daily under a bland moisturiser can control menopausal itchiness by addressing its root causes (dryness and inflammation).
When to use: Consider adding a calming serum or a gentle moisturiser to your routine when persistent itchiness is an issue, particularly if it stems from dryness or sensitivity.
Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Calecim Professional Serum (Concentrated Anti-Aging Serum)
A potent stem cell-derived serum used at home and in clinic to target menopausal fine lines and wrinkles. It contains the highest concentration of PTT-6® growth factors to signal skin cells to regenerate, which visibly smooths out wrinkles and improves elasticity. By boosting collagen production, it helps plump up fine lines and refine skin texture. Apply a few drops to the face daily (or have it applied post-procedure in clinic) to rejuvenate ageing skin; follow with a moisturiser. Its lightweight formula absorbs quickly, delivering growth factors deep into the skin for wrinkle repair.
When to use: Use this serum daily on ageing skin with visible fine lines to rejuvenate and plump up the skin. Ideal for use at home or as a post-treatment booster for smoother, firmer skin.
Medik8 Crystal Retinal (Retinaldehyde Night Serum)
A Vitamin A serum is available in progressive strengths (e.g. 3, 6, 10) to reduce wrinkles and improve skin firmness. It features retinaldehyde, a next-generation retinoid that works 11× faster than standard retinol to boost collagen and speed up cell renewal. This clinically proven formula visibly smooths even stubborn wrinkles and firms sagging areas with minimal irritation. Use at night: start 2–3 times a week, applying a pea-sized amount to the face after cleansing. Gradually increase use to nightly as tolerated. Always wear SPF in the daytime when using this product.
When to use: Ideal for nightly use when targeting stubborn wrinkles and sagging areas. Start slowly to allow your skin to adapt, and always follow with SPF during the day.
Medik8 Rewind Professional Peel (In-Clinic Peel)
An age-defying chemical peel performed by professionals to rejuvenate menopausal skin. This peel uses a blend of acids to exfoliate dull, damaged layers and stimulate new collagen, thereby reducing fine lines and wrinkles. The “Rewind” peel visibly smooths the skin’s surface and promotes a firmer, more youthful complexion with minimal downtime. It is typically done in a series of sessions. After each peel, patients should use gentle, hydrating products (and sunscreen) as instructed while the skin renews and wrinkles gradually diminish.
When to use: Opt for this in-clinic peel if you’re seeking a deeper rejuvenation treatment to reduce fine lines. It works best as part of a series, with professional guidance for aftercare to enhance results.
Thinning Skin (Atrophy)
Calecim Professional Serum (Intensive Regenerative Serum)
(See above under wrinkles.) This growth factor serum is especially beneficial for thinning, fragile skin that can occur during menopause. Its high concentration of stem cell proteins helps stimulate cellular renewal and collagen synthesis, which can thicken the epidermis and dermis over time. By improving skin density, it makes thinning skin more resilient and less prone to tearing or creping. Apply once or twice daily to cleansed skin. For very thin, sensitised skin, it can also be used immediately after in-clinic procedures (like micro-needling) to enhance repair.
When to use: Use this serum daily on thinning or fragile skin to promote cellular renewal and strengthen your skin barrier, especially following in-clinic treatments.
Medik8 Liquid Peptides (Peptide Serum)
A lightweight daily serum with a 30% cocktail of peptides to fortify and plump thinning skin. It delivers ten different peptides, including a collagen-supporting “Growth Factor Mimicking” peptide, deep into the skin with drone-targeted technology. These peptides signal the skin to produce more collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid, improving skin firmness and plumpness. In clinical use, it has been proven to increase skin firmness and volume in just 7 days, visibly reducing fine lines as well. Smooth 4–6 drops over the face after cleansing each morning and evening. Follow with a moisturiser. Consistent use helps rebuild a stronger, thicker skin structure to combat atrophy.
When to use: Apply this serum daily to quickly enhance skin firmness and volume. Its rapid action makes it ideal for anyone experiencing thinning skin and fine lines due to reduced collagen production.
Loss of Elasticity and Sagging
Calecim Professional Multi-Action Cream (Firming Cream)
A collagen- and elastin-boosting moisturiser aimed at skin that is losing elasticity or firmness. Powered by the same stem cell protein complex, PTT-6®, this cream helps boost collagen and elastin production to lift and firm sagging areas. With regular use it improves skin tone and density, reducing jowls, slackness, and fine crepey texture. Use morning and night, massaging a small amount into the face and neck. Over time, it works to restore bounce and support to menopausal skin that has begun to droop or slacken.
When to use: Ideal for daily use on sagging or loss of elasticity. Apply morning and night to visibly lift and firm skin, restoring a youthful bounce and tone.
Medik8 Copper PCA Peptides (Antioxidant Peptide Serum)
A mineral-based anti-ageing serum that combats loss of firmness by protecting and reviving the skin’s structural proteins. It contains copper PCA and a patented blend of potent antioxidants plus peptides, engineered to be 5× more effective than standard antioxidants. This dual approach shields the skin from collagen-degrading free radicals and actively supports new collagen production for improved elasticity. Apply a few drops each morning after cleansing (especially if vitamin C is not used). The serum’s blue copper-peptide formula strengthens the skin over time, helping to firm sagging areas and refine facial contours. Always follow with sunscreen to protect those new collagen fibres.
When to use: Use this serum each morning to reinforce your skin’s structure and combat sagging. It’s especially beneficial when you need an extra boost in elasticity and protection against environmental stressors.
Hyperpigmentation (Melasma and Age Spots)
Calecim Professional Pigment Solution (Spot Corrector Serum)
An at-home corrective serum specifically formulated for uneven skin tone. It’s a powerhouse of active ingredients that target every stage of the discolouration process. This includes 4-Butylresorcinol, arbutin, niacinamide, vitamin C (MAP), and tranexamic acid – all proven pigment inhibitors – combined with the PTT-6® regenerative complex. Together, these ingredients slow down melanin production and accelerate the fading of melasma patches and age spots. Apply a thin layer directly on cleansed areas of pigmentation twice daily (morning and night). Over several weeks, it will gradually lighten dark spots and even out mottled tones. Don’t forget daily SPF, as treated skin should be protected from UV to prevent recurrence.
When to use: This spot corrector is best for areas with dark spots and uneven tone. Use it twice daily for gradual lightening, and always protect your skin with SPF to prevent further discolouration.
Medik8 Oxy-R Peptides (Brightening Serum)
A high-strength brightening peptide serum for daily use. It delivers 1% oxyresveratrol (Oxy-R) – a naturally derived ingredient that powerfully blocks tyrosinase to prevent melanin synthesis – in tandem with a patented peptide complex. One peptide (Tetrapeptide-30) helps “minimise the production of tyrosinase”, effectively curbing excess melanin that leads to dark spots. This dual-action approach makes skin visibly brighter and more even-toned while fading hyperpigmentation and post-acne marks. Use 6 drops on the face both morning and evening. Oxy-R Peptides comes in two dropper vials to ensure freshness – activate one vial and finish it (approximately 6 weeks) before starting the second. Consistent use, paired with sunscreen, will reduce stubborn discolouration safely even on sensitive skin.
When to use: Use this brightening serum daily on discoloured areas to even out your skin tone. It works well when incorporated into your morning and evening routines, paired with SPF protection.
Medik8 Even Professional Peel (In-Clinic Peel)
A professional chemical peel treatment designed to rapidly improve hyperpigmentation and melasma. The Even Peel uses a blend of exfoliating acids (like lactic and glycolic acid) to resurface uneven tone and includes brightening actives to suppress new pigment formation. It targets sun damage, hyperpigmentation and dull, uneven skin tone, helping to fade stubborn discolouration for a more radiant complexion. Performed by skincare professionals, this peel is usually done in a series of 4–6 sessions. Patients should prep the skin with recommended at-home products (often including vitamin A or pigment inhibitors) and maintain results post-peel with a strict sunscreen and pigment-correcting routine.
When to use: Consider this in-clinic peel when you need a more intensive treatment for persistent hyperpigmentation. It’s most effective when done as part of a series with proper aftercare, including diligent sun protection.
Acne and Breakouts
Calecim Professional Recovery Night Complex (Overnight Mask)
A regenerative night treatment that can be useful as an adjunct for adult acne-prone skin. While not a traditional acne medication, it contains 5% niacinamide, which helps regulate sebum production and reduce inflammation in breakouts. The stem cell factors in PTT-6® also promote faster healing, which is beneficial for acne lesions and post-acne recovery. The gel formula hydrates without clogging, making it suitable for acneic skin that may also be dry or sensitive in menopause. Apply a generous layer at night over breakout-prone areas and leave on until morning. It will calm redness and irritation overnight. Rinse off in the morning and continue with your usual cleansing routine. Use consistently to help blemishes resolve with less irritation.
When to use: Use this overnight mask when dealing with acne and breakouts, particularly if your skin is also experiencing dryness. It helps soothe irritation while promoting healing overnight.
Medik8 Press & Clear (2% BHA Exfoliating Tonic)
An at-home daily exfoliating toner to keep menopausal breakouts in check. It features 2% encapsulated salicylic acid (BHA) to penetrate and unclog pores, plus tranexamic acid to lighten any post-blemish discolouration. Uniquely formulated at a skin-friendly pH of approximately 5.5, it is clinically proven effective even on sensitive, blemish-prone skin. The addition of aloe vera and niacinamide ensures a soothing, hydrating experience while the formula fends off blemishes, blackheads and pore-clogging foes, promoting clearer and smoother skin. After cleansing, dispense onto a cotton pad and sweep over the face (avoiding the eyes) every morning and evening. Do not rinse. Allow it to dry before applying serum or moisturiser. With regular use, it helps prevent new breakouts and fades the marks from old ones. Always apply SPF during the day, as salicylic acid makes skin more sun-sensitive.
When to use: Apply this exfoliating tonic every morning and evening after cleansing to unclog pores and keep breakouts at bay. It’s especially useful if you experience occasional blemishes alongside sensitivity.
Medik8 Clarity Professional Peel (In-Clinic Peel)
A powerful clarifying peel treatment for acne and oily skin, performed in medical spas or clinics. This purifying peel uses a combination of acids (such as salicylic, mandelic, and glycolic) to deep-clean pores and reduce breakouts. It rapidly brings blemishes under control and dramatically reduces the risk of future breakouts by exfoliating congestion and reducing excess oil. Typically undertaken as a series, this peel helps resurface acne-prone skin with minimal downtime. Patients may experience some flaking a few days after as clogged pores are cleared. It’s important to follow post-peel instructions, which usually include gentle cleansing, moisturisation, sun protection, and avoiding picking to ensure optimal acne-clearing results.
When to use: Opt for this professional peel when your acne and oily skin require a more intensive treatment. It’s best performed as a series of sessions, with careful post-treatment care to maximise results.
Rosacea
Calecim Restorative Hydration Cream
Rosacea primarily requires anti-redness and vascular treatments, but Calecim’s gentle moisturisers may help support rosacea-prone skin by calming inflammation and improving the moisture barrier with ingredients like aloe vera and growth factors. This can reduce dryness and irritation that often accompany rosacea flares. Patients with rosacea can layer Calecim’s hydrating cream over their prescribed rosacea medication to enhance comfort and skin recovery.
When to use: Use Calecim’s gentle moisturisers when your rosacea-prone skin needs extra hydration and calming support, particularly during flare-ups.
Medik8 Calmwise Serum (Redness Relief Serum)
A soothing at-home serum formulated for red, sensitive skin, making it ideal for rosacea sufferers. Its key ingredient is teprenone, a patented anti-redness active that has been shown to visibly reduce facial redness in just one month by extending the skin cells’ health and reinforcing capillaries. The serum also contains organic sage extract, an anti-inflammatory antioxidant that calms both the look and feel of redness-prone skin. Together, these ingredients reduce flushing, burning and reactivity. The fragrance-free, lipid-rich formula is gentle and won’t sting. Apply 6 drops of Calmwise Serum to affected areas every morning and evening after cleansing. Let it absorb, then follow with a moisturiser. Over time, skin becomes less reactive and appears calmer and more even-toned.
When to use: Use this serum daily on rosacea-affected areas to help visibly reduce redness and soothe sensitivity. Its regular use can lead to calmer, more balanced skin.
Medik8 Sensitive PHA Peel (In-Clinic Treatment)
An ultra-gentle chemical peel option for rosacea or highly sensitive skin, available in professional clinics. This peel uses polyhydroxy acids (PHAs), which exfoliate on the surface without penetrating too deeply, thus avoiding irritation. It is described as a gentle yet effective peel, designed for extremely sensitive or redness-prone skin. The Sensitive PHA Peel helps smooth rough texture and reduce blotchiness while promoting a stronger skin barrier – a key benefit for rosacea patients. Administered by a trained therapist or dermatologist, the peel is left on for a controlled time to delicately renew the skin. Downtime is minimal (usually no heavy peeling). After a series of these peels, rosacea-prone skin can look more uniform and feel more resilient. It’s important that you use the recommended calming products and sunscreen post-procedure to maintain results and protect the skin.
When to use: Choose this gentle in-clinic peel if your skin is extremely sensitive or prone to redness. It’s best used under professional supervision as part of a tailored treatment plan to smooth and renew your skin.
Management and Support
Understanding and pre-empting these changes should be part of your plan to help you deal with whatever your skin throws at you. The Doctors Laser Clinic’s experienced practitioners specialise in personalised skin health strategies to help you along your unique menopausal journey.
The use of precision treatments to address specific skin concerns and our unwavering commitment to supporting your skin’s health is a winning combination for your skin. Get in touch, and we’ll do our best to help you with personalised skin health assessment during menopause and beyond.
