menopause and the skin

Menopause is a natural milestone in every woman’s life, but the hormonal changes it brings can have a profound impact on the skin. Understanding these changes—and knowing how to manage them—can help you maintain healthy, comfortable, and confident skin through menopause and beyond.

how does menopause affect the skin?

As oestrogen levels decline, several key changes occur:

Collagen loss: Up to 30% of skin collagen is lost in the first five years after menopause, leading to thinner, less elastic skin and the development of fine lines and wrinkles.
Reduced skin thickness: Both the outer and deeper layers of skin become thinner and more fragile.
Dryness and barrier changes: Less sebum and impaired lipid production result in dryness, itching, and increased sensitivity.
Loss of firmness: Reduced elastin and collagen lead to sagging, laxity, and more visible lines, especially around the eyes and jawline.
Pigmentation changes: Melanocyte function becomes erratic, causing mottled pigmentation, sunspots, or melasma.
Slower healing: Skin may heal more slowly and be more prone to irritation.
Hair and nail changes: Thinning hair (especially at the front of the scalp and eyebrows), increased facial hair in some women, and nail fragility are common.

skin strategies with Dr Liz

Dr Liz Dawes-Higgs offers a holistic, evidence-based approach to managing menopausal skin changes, focusing on restoring comfort, confidence, and a healthy glow.

Topical Skin Care

Retinoids: Encourage collagen production and improve skin texture
Hyaluronic acid-based moisturisers: Deeply hydrate and plump the skin
Ceramide-rich creams: Restore and protect the skin’s barrier
Vitamin C and antioxidants: Defend against oxidative stress and brighten the complexion
Niacinamide: Improves elasticity, barrier function, and pigmentation

Laser & Energy-Based Skin Treatments

Laser resurfacing options such as Fractional ablative laser and Fraxel Dual Laser treatments, stimulate new collagen, improving skin texture, and firmness
Radiofrequency Treatments: a non-surgical option for skin laxity and fine lines
BroadBand Light (BBL): Evens out pigmentation and reduces visible blood vessels

Skin Lines Support

My “Skin Lines Support” treatments use advanced techniques to relax facial muscles, softening dynamic lines and helping to prevent new lines from forming. Treatments are carefully dosed to maintain natural facial expression.

Facial Volume Support

Replaces lost volume and enhances facial contours for a more refreshed look. My “Facial Volume Support” treatments are designed to gently restore natural volume and contour, providing subtle lift and support. These can deeply hydrate and help smooth fine lines

Skin Collagen Support

“Skin Collagen Support” treatments stimulate your skin’s own collagen production. This approach helps to improve skin firmness, texture, and resilience

Lifestyle & Maintenance

Daily sun protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, hats, and shade
Healthy lifestyle: Smoking cessation, antioxidant-rich diet, and regular exercise support overall skin health
Regular skin checks: Early detection of sun damage or skin cancers is especially important after menopause

Hormonal Support

HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy): May improve skin thickness, hydration, and elasticity in some women. Decisions about HRT are individual and should be discussed with your GP or women’s health specialist.

why choose dr liz dawes-higgs?

As a dermatologist with a special interest in women’s health and menopause, Dr Liz Dawes-Higgs understands the unique skin concerns that arise at this stage of life. Her approach is always personalised, evidence-based, and designed to help you look and feel your best — at every age. If you’re experiencing skin changes related to menopause, Dr Liz offers expert assessment and a tailored management plan to restore your skin’s health and confidence.

For more information or to book a consultation with Dr Liz, or please contact the clinic on (02) 9958 1555.