Understanding Menopausal Skin

Menopause is marked by a significant reduction in estrogen, a hormone closely linked to the structure and function of the skin. When estrogen levels decline, the effects appear both beneath the surface and on it. By understanding this progression, we can better guide women through a phase that is often confusing and emotionally charged. 

What Happens Beneath the Surface 

Estrogen influences several essential aspects of skin health. It supports collagen production, maintains elasticity, contributes to ceramide formation, and helps regulate the skin’s natural moisturizing factors. As estrogen levels fall, these systems slow down. 

Collagen and Elastin Production – One of the most noticeable results is a decrease in collagen and elastin. With fewer supportive fibers in the dermis, the skin becomes thinner and less resilient. Clients may mention feeling that their skin does not “bounce back” the way it used to or that they see new laxity around the cheeks and jawline. 

Lipid Barrier – Moisture retention also becomes more challenging. As ceramide production declines, the barrier struggles to maintain hydration. This leads to structural dryness, not just surface dehydration. Many clients describe a tight or rough sensation even when they are applying moisturizer regularly. 

Melanocyte Activity – Melanocyte behavior also shifts during menopause. For some women, pigmentation becomes more pronounced due to increased reactivity to inflammation, heat, and UV exposure. For others, conditions like melasma may soften as hormonal stimulation decreases. These differences highlight the importance of understanding each client’s unique hormonal pattern. 

Cellular Repair – Finally, the skin’s natural repair processes slow down. Estrogen’s protective effects on mitochondrial DNA support healthy ATP production. Reduced estrogen levels weaken this protection, allowing oxidative stress to rise and cellular repair to slow Reduced cell turnover and delayed wound healing can make the skin more vulnerable to irritation and redness, especially after professional procedures. 

How Clients Experience These Changes 

Menopausal clients typically notice dryness, sensitivity, uneven tone, and a loss of firmness. 

These concerns often appear together, creating a sense of sudden transformation. Some women feel emotional or discouraged when their products no longer seem effective or when their skin reacts unpredictably. This is where education becomes essential.Sensitivity becomes more common as the barrier weakens. Products that were once comfortable may begin to sting or create temporary redness. Pigmentation can appear darker or more stubborn. Firmness declines as collagen becomes less abundant. Recovery after treatments require more time and a gentler approach.Understanding these experiences allows estheticians to validate what clients are feeling while offering a clear explanation of why it is happening. 

How Estheticians Can Support the Skin 

The first and most important priority is barrier repair. Replenishing lipids through ceramides, fatty acids, and cholesterol strengthens the skin’s defenses and restores comfort. Once the barrier is steady, hydration becomes more effective and long term improvements become possible. 

Choosing low inflammation treatments is essential. Menopausal skin responds well to gentle approaches such as enzymes, mild lactic acid, hydrating facials, oxygen based treatments, microcurrent, and red light therapy. These options respect the skin’s reduced resilience while still encouraging renewal. 

Supporting collagen integrity can be done through peptides, vitamin C, and controlled exfoliation. When the barrier is stable and the client is prepared, treatments like microneedling may be considered using a careful and individualized approach. 

Pigmentation requires patience and a measured touch. Rather than relying on strong resurfacing or aggressive exfoliation, estheticians can focus on reducing inflammation, supporting the barrier, and using gentle tyrosinase focused strategies. Consistency and protection from heat and UV exposure become key elements of success. 

Beyond technique, communication is one of the most powerful tools in the treatment room. When clients understand what is happening within their skin, they feel more in control and less anxious. Clear guidance helps them commit to a long term plan that respects the skin’s evolving needs. 

Building a Long Term Treatment Approach 

Menopausal skin responds best to steady, thoughtful care rather than fast or aggressive interventions. Treatment plans should evolve over time, offering gradual improvement that aligns with the skin’s capacity to recover. A strong foundation includes barrier support, hydration, selective stimulation, and controlled exfoliation. Gentle, layered treatments often outperform intense approaches because they keep inflammation low and protect long term skin health. 

Encouraging realistic expectations helps clients stay motivated. When women feel understood and supported, they are more likely to trust the process and remain consistent with at home care and in clinic visits. 

Menopause is a natural and meaningful transition that brings changes not only to the body but also to the skin. With a deeper understanding of the physiology behind these shifts, estheticians can offer compassionate and effective support. By educating clients and tailoring treatments to their evolving needs, we help them feel at ease in their own skin and confident through every stage of life. 

Claudia Zalega is a licensed esthetician with over 25 years of experience and the founder of Kēp Esthetics in Montréal. She specializes in corrective skincare, pigmentation, barrier repair, and age-related skin changes, with a strong focus on empowering women through education. Known for blending science and compassion, Claudia provides personalized treatments rooted in skin physiology. She is dedicated to elevating client understanding and supporting estheticians in their professional growth.