Menopause represents a natural life transition. Related changes to skin, hair and nails can feel abrupt and difficult, but understanding what to expect and how to care for yourself can help you move through this stage with confidence.
What to expect
Perimenopause is a transitional phase lasting approximately ten years before menopause. Fluctuating oestrogen causes skin sensitivity, dullness, unexpected breakouts and dryness, and collagen loss begins, reducing skin firmness and elasticity.
Menopause occurs after 12 consecutive months without menstruation. Oestrogen decline accelerates ageing: thinning skin, dryness and itchiness, and up to 30% collagen loss within the first five years. Wrinkles, sagging, slower healing and age spots become more pronounced.
Skin concerns and support
Dryness and itchiness may be helped by glycerin, aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, squalane, jojoba oil, urea and glycolic acid.
Loss of firmness and collagen may be supported with retinoids, vitamin C and peptides. Breakouts and redness may be helped by niacinamide, azelaic acid and gentle cleansers. Keratosis pilaris may be helped by lactic acid based moisturisers, and ceramides and lipids can help protect and repair overall sensitivity.
Hair and nail changes
Hair can thin, shed, grow more slowly or change in texture as oestrogen declines, and some women notice increased facial hair. Professional assessment is recommended for significant changes.
Nails can become brittle, weak or ridged, and break more easily, due to reduced circulation, inflammation and slower growth. Moisturising, massaging the nail beds and cold-weather protection can help.
Treatment and lifestyle support
Targeted skincare containing retinol, vitamin C, niacinamide, peptides, hyaluronic acid and ceramides may help, alongside daily UVA/UVB sun protection, which is especially important at this life stage. Hydrating mists or cryo balls may help with hot flushes, and rich moisturisers with urea and glycolic acid, along with chafe sticks for irritation, can support body care.
Hormone replacement therapy, whether systemic or topical, may improve skin hydration and suppleness and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. This is worth discussing with your Women's Health GP or Hormone Health Nurse.
Nutritional support may include vitamin C and zinc for collagen, omega fatty acids for skin health, vitamin D and calcium for bone health, iron where fatigue or nail concerns are present, probiotics for the gut-skin connection, magnesium for sleep and B vitamins for hormonal regulation.
- Balanced nutrition and hydration
- Exercise, especially resistance training
- Quality sleep
- Stress management
Each woman's menopause journey differs. When skin, hair or nail changes affect your quality of life, professional guidance from our medically-trained team is recommended to support your appearance and wellbeing at every life stage.