Perimenopause itchy skin: what to expect

This article is intended for information purposes only and does not constitute or replace advice from a medical professional.

Perimenopause skin sensitivity: your guide

Perimenopause refers to the time when your hormone levels start to change, before your periods stop. You’re officially in menopause when you haven’t had a period for one year. The most common age for menopause in the UK is 51, so most women will reach perimenopause in their late 40s. During this time, changing hormone levels, most importantly declining oestrogen, can wreak havoc on your skin, and you may notice your skin is more sensitive, prone to dryness or other skin problems. Read on to find out more about perimenopause skin sensitivity, why it happens and what to look for when it comes to finding good skincare for sensitive skin.

Understanding perimenopause skin sensitivity

Your body’s fluctuating oestrogen levels can cause perimenopause skin sensitivity. Oestrogen is the hormone in charge of regulating your skin health. It does this by stimulating the production of natural oils that keep your skin moisturised and collagen that maintains your skin's strength and elasticity. So, when these collagen and oil levels begin to drop during perimenopause, it causes your skin to become drier than before and can leave it feeling irritated or more sensitive to skincare products. Add excessive sweating at night or hot flushes into the mix, and this can cause further moisture loss and irritation to your skin.

Common symptoms of perimenopause skin sensitivity

Here are some of the perimenopause skin changes to look out for. Once you know the signs of perimenopause skin sensitivity, you can start to make the necessary changes to your lifestyle and routine.

• Dryness and itching, especially at night.
• Redness, flushed skin, and possibly the occurrence of rosacea.
• Spots or acne-prone skin, due to changing hormone levels and increased stress that’s common during menopause.
• Sun damage is common if you’ve spent a lot of your life in the sun. Age spots, irregular skin tone, thread veins and wrinkles are likely to show up now.
• Bruising or more delicate skin, as a lack of oestrogen can make your skin thinner.
• Wrinkles, fine lines and loss of elasticity due to declining collagen and elastin.

How to care for sensitive skin during perimenopause

Perimenopause skin changes and menopause sensitive skin can be tough to deal with. Luckily, the way you treat your skin and the lifestyle habits you adopt can have a positive effect on your skin health. Here are some tips for skincare and habits during perimenopause.

Perimenopause skincare tips

• When using skincare and shower products, stick to hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, niacinamide and vitamin C. Look for formulas that are free from fragrance, alcohol, sulphates and colourants. Sanex Zero range contains 0% sulphates, soap and colourants, it gently cleanses and naturally moisturises your skin, leaving it feeling comfortable and cared for. Finding good skincare for sensitive skin is easier when you know which ingredients to avoid.
• Use a broad-spectrum SPF every day, and an antioxidant serum can also help to protect your skin from the sun.
• Take warm showers and baths for around 15 minutes at a time. Longer and hotter showers can dry out and irritate your skin even more.
• Pat your skin dry with a soft towel and apply moisturiser within 3 minutes of showering to help to lock in hydration.
• If you plan on speaking to a doctor or dermatologist, keep a note of any skincare changes and when they happen, along with any potential triggers you suspect.

Lifestyle tips to support perimenopause skin problems

• Protect your skin from harsh weather – wear SPF50 on your face and any part of your skin that’s showing. Protect yourself from harmful UV rays all year-round, even on cloudy days! Wear protective clothing, like long-sleeved tops and gloves, on cold days to prevent your skin from drying out more.
• Avoid triggers that cause more collagen loss – things like smoking, UV light and too much caffeine can all damage your body’s collagen and elastin levels more.
• Eat a healthy diet – prioritise whole foods, fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid ultra-processed foods, sugar and alcohol as much as possible.
• Hydrate every day – drink plenty of water each day to keep your body hydrated from the inside. You should be aiming for around two litres per day.
• Manage your stress levels – try to minimise the stress in your life and prioritise good quality sleep. Try to spend time exercising, even a walk outdoors counts!

When to seek medical advice for perimenopause skin sensitivity

If perimenopause skin changes are having an impact on your daily life or you have any persistent rashes or lumps, speak to your doctor. They may suggest starting hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to manage your menopause symptoms if you’re a suitable candidate.

FAQs

Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions about perimenopause skin sensitivity:

Can perimenopause cause sensitive skin?

Perimenopause skin changes are common, with many women experiencing sensitivity, redness, itching, dry or irritated skin. You may also develop new skin conditions or see the return of skin conditions that haven’t flared up in years, like eczema, rosacea and psoriasis.

What are the symptoms of perimenopausal skin?

The first signs of perimenopausal skin are usually dry or very itchy skin due to the drop in oestrogen levels in your body. You may also notice redness, irritation, more fine lines and wrinkles and a loss of elasticity due to declining collagen levels.

Are there lifestyle changes that can help reduce skin sensitivity?

The best way to combat perimenopause skin sensitivity is by taking care of your body and skin by making a few simple lifestyle changes. Follow our tips above, like sticking to a gentle skincare routine and eating a healthy and nourishing diet full of vegetables and whole foods.