My sister called me the other day, worried. “I’m still in my early 50s, but I feel like my skin is changing overnight. Could this be menopause?” she asked. It’s a common conversation I have, even with loved ones. My sister, like many women, is going through perimenopause, the transitional phase before menopause. She’s noticing the early signs—dry skin, fine lines becoming more noticeable, and hair thinning. At the same time, our mom, who’s well into her golden years, still has glowing, healthy skin. “Mom’s just lucky,” my sister sighed. But as I often remind my patients—and my family—mom’s glowing skin isn’t just luck. It’s the result of:
1. A great skincare routine she adopted early.
2. A dermatologist daughter (me!) who keeps her treatments on point.
What my sister is experiencing is completely normal, but it’s also manageable. Too many women enter menopause unprepared for the changes to their skin, hair, and body. So, let’s talk about what happens during menopause, why it happens, and what you can do to take control of your skin health during this phase.
In the U.S., many women aren’t fully aware of the symptoms and timing of menopause:
• 46% of women report feeling unprepared for menopause.
• 40% of women say they feel isolated during the process.
What’s even more concerning is how little menopause is discussed. Studies reveal that fewer than 25% of women receive proactive advice from healthcare professionals about what to expect—especially when it comes to skin and hair changes. The average age of menopause in the U.S. is 51, but perimenopause can begin years earlier, often in the late 40s to early 50s.
During perimenopause and menopause, your hormone levels—particularly estrogen—begin to decline. Estrogen is the key to maintaining skin elasticity, moisture, and hair growth. As its levels drop, here’s what happens:
Dry, Thinning Skin:
Estrogen helps keep skin plump and hydrated. Its decline can cause your skin to feel drier, more fragile, and thinner over time.
Wrinkles and Loss of Elasticity:
• Collagen production slows down, leading to more pronounced fine lines, sagging skin, and deeper wrinkles.
Hair Thinning and Loss:
• Many women notice hair thinning, especially along the part or crown. This is due to hormone shifts that impact the hair growth cycle.
Uneven Skin Tone:
• A combination of sun exposure over the years and hormonal changes can bring on dark spots and pigmentation issues. These changes can be unsettling, especially if you weren’t expecting them. But there are ways to restore moisture, improve skin texture, and slow the progression of these signs.
As a dermatologist, here’s what I tell my patients—especially women going through perimenopause or menopause:
Hydrate and Protect Your Skin:
• Use moisturizers containing hyaluronic acid and ceramides to lock in hydration and strengthen your skin barrier. o Don’t skip sunscreen! Thinner skin is more prone to damage, so apply SPF 30+ daily to protect against UV rays and dark spots.
Boost Collagen with Retinoids or Peptides:
• Retinoids (like tretinoin) are a gold standard for reducing fine lines, improving skin texture, and stimulating collagen production.
• If retinoids feel too strong for sensitive skin, look for peptides, which are gentler but still promote firmness and elasticity.
Consider Professional Treatments:
• In-office treatments like microneedling, laser therapy, or chemical peels can improve skin tone, boost collagen, and minimize wrinkles.
Address Hair Thinning:
• For hair loss, minoxidil is a proven topical treatment to slow shedding and encourage regrowth.
• Scalp treatments or hormone-balancing therapies may also be discussed with your dermatologist or healthcare provider.
Talk to Your Doctor About Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT):
• For women with more pronounced menopausal symptoms, HRT can help balance hormone levels, improving not just skin and hair health but also hot flashes and vaginal dryness.
Don’t Ignore Nutrition:
• A diet rich in omega-3s, protein, vitamin D, and antioxidants can support skin health and prevent further thinning. Supplements may be an option if deficiencies are identified.
One of the most important things I tell my patients—and my sister—is this: menopause is a natural phase of life, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Yes, the changes can be frustrating, but you can take control of your skin and hair health with the right information and treatments. Don’t hesitate to speak to your dermatologist or healthcare provider about the options available. With a solid skincare routine, proactive treatments, and a bit of self-care, you can feel just as confident in your 50s and beyond as you did in your 30s. My mom is proof of that—and so are the countless patients I’ve helped through this transition. The
If you’re noticing skin or hair changes as you approach menopause, you’re not alone. Dryness, thinning, and wrinkles are common, but they’re also manageable. By working with a board-certified dermatologist, you can create a plan tailored to your needs and keep your skin glowing through every stage of life. Remember: You’re not “aging too soon”—you’re embracing a new phase, and you deserve to feel beautiful, confident, and informed.
