Why Does Skin Get Drier As We Age? Let's Talk Menopausal Skin!

Have you noticed your skin feeling drier, itchier, or less radiant lately? You're not alone. One of the most common (and often frustrating) skin concerns that comes with age, especially during menopause, is dry, dehydrated skin. But why does this happen? And more importantly, what can you do about it?

Let’s break it down with science, stats, and some glow-boosting tips.

Why Does Skin Become Drier With Age?

As we age, our skin loses its natural ability to hold moisture. Collagen, elastin, and natural oils like sebum begin to decline from our 30s onwards. By the time we reach menopause, these changes accelerate — significantly.

During perimenopause and menopause, oestrogen levels drop significantly. Oestrogen is a sex hormone that regulates the menstrual cycle and plays an important role in womens' reproductive health. Whilst this is commonly known, it is lesser understood the role that this hormone has on our skin. Our understanding however, is that it plays a vital role in:

• Collagen production (hello, firmness and bounce!)

• Sebum regulation (your skin’s natural oil barrier)

• Hyaluronic acid levels (the molecule responsible for hydration)

In fact, research shows that women can lose up to 30% of skin collagen in the first five years after menopause. That’s why menopausal skin often feels thinner, drier and more fragile.

Menopausal Skin Symptoms to Look Out For:

• Dry, flaky skin — especially on the cheeks and lower face

• Increased sensitivity and irritation

• Fine lines appearing more visible

• Loss of radiance or glow

• Crepey skin texture on the neck, chest, and hands

How to Tackle Dry Skin During Menopause

Ready to bring the bounce back? Here are some expert tips and treatment options to nourish menopausal skin from the inside out:

✅ Hydrate Like a Pro

Look for skincare with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and niacinamide - ingredients that restore the skin’s barrier and lock in moisture.

✅ Introduce Skin Boosters

Injectable moisturisers like Profhilo and Polynucleotides deliver deep hydration and stimulate collagen production. Think of them as a drink of water from the inside out!

✅ Don’t Skip SPF

Yes, even if it’s cloudy. Sun exposure accelerates water loss and collagen breakdown - two things you want to avoid post-40.

✅ Medical-Grade Skincare

We love recommending Obagi and other targeted ranges to address dry, menopausal skin with science-backed formulas because they deliver results!

✅ Support With Lifestyle

Boost hydration and skin health with:

• Omega-3 rich foods

• Plenty of water

• Limiting alcohol and caffeine

• Gentle exfoliation 1–2 times per week

In-Clinic Solutions for Dry Menopausal Skin

At Coral Aesthetics, we offer a full menu of skin treatments tailored to menopausal and mature skin, including:

• Skin boosters for hydration

• Profhilo for firmness and glow

• Chemical peels to remove dull surface skin

• Microneedling to stimulate collagen

• Polynucleotides for skin regeneration

All treatments are carried out by our experienced NMC-registered Nurse Prescriber at our clinics in London, Essex, and Kent.

📍 Searching for Menopause Skin Treatments Near You?

Whether you’re Googling “how to treat dry skin after menopause”, “best skin treatments for menopausal skin” or “menopause skincare in London”, we’re here to help you feel confident in your skin again.

Book your consultation with Nurse Coral and explore safe, tailored treatments that work with your skin — not against it.