Menopause and your skin: Best tips to keep your skin glowing, avoid dryness and rashes

Common skin problems during menopause: This is the time when the body’s estrogen levels decline, leading to dryness, sensitivity, and even rashes (Image: Canva)

Are you in your late 40s or early 50s? Do you have unexpected hot flashes, mood swings, or skin irritation? These could be signs of menopause, a natural phase in every woman’s life. As estrogen levels decline, symptoms like fatigue, night sweats, and changes in skin and hair can become more noticeable.

Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life, usually occurring in the late 40s or early 50s, when the ovaries produce less estrogen. While it is not a disease, it brings several changes to the body, including the skin, says Dr Arati Adhe Rojekar, Consultant - Gynaecology, P. D. Hinduja Hospital & MRC, Mahim. “One of the lesser-discussed but significant impacts of menopause is on the skin. The body’s estrogen levels decline, leading to dryness, sensitivity, and even rashes," she says

Menopause-related hormonal changes make the skin more prone to infections and discomfort, especially in sun-exposed areas. “The primary reason menopause impacts the skin is estrogen depletion, which reduces skin turgor, elasticity, and moisture,” explains Dr. Rojekar.

Also read | What is menopause, signs and symptoms of this natural transition, expert tips to manage

Menopause skin changes: Menopause-related hormonal changes make the skin more prone to infections and discomfort, especially in sun-exposed areas

This leads to dryness, itching, and rashes, often appearing as redness, discoloration, or hives on the face, hands, and pelvic region. Sun exposure worsens pigmentation and dark spots. Additionally, lower progesterone levels reduce sebum production, weakening the skin’s protective barrier. “Thinner skin also heals more slowly, increasing the risk of infections, particularly in friction-prone areas,” she adds.

Common symptoms and skin rashes during menopause:

Menopausal skin becomes more sensitive, prone to dryness, and reactive to temperature changes. “Dry skin with itching often leads to rashes, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight,” says Dr Rojekar. Common issues include pigmentation, redness, hives, eczema flare-ups, and fungal infections. Pelvic and thigh rashes may also occur due to dryness, scratching, and urinary incontinence.

Also read | Menopause symptoms: Ease irregular cycles, hot flashes, mood changes with a nutrient-rich daily diet

Tips to protect your skin during menopause:

While these changes can feel distressing, they are manageable with the right skincare approach. “Simple lifestyle changes  can make a big difference in how your skin copes with menopause,” advises Dr Rojekar.

Also read | Menopause and mood swings: 7 strategies to stay calm, manage anxiety and stress

Here’s what you can do to keep your skin healthy and protected:

• Moisturise regularly: Hydrating creams and lotions help restore moisture and prevent excessive dryness.
• Use sunscreen daily: UV exposure worsens skin thinning and pigmentation. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ should be applied every day.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water supports skin elasticity and overall hydration.
• Opt for gentle skincare: Avoid harsh soaps or alcohol-based products that can strip moisture from the skin. Instead, choose mild, fragrance-free cleansers and hydrating serums.
• Treat infections early: If you notice persistent rashes or skin infections, consult a dermatologist for proper treatment.