The Menopause Edit: A Strategic Dermatology Approach to Skin & Hair

Menopause has a way of creeping in quietly. One day, your trusted skincare routine works a charm. Next, your skin feels drier than ever, your lashes are thinning, and nothing seems to behave as it once did. It’s not your imagination—and it’s not something you should simply “put up with.”

At Dr Sam Bunting + Associates, we see menopausal skin and hair changes every day. And with over 13 million women in the UK currently peri- or postmenopausal, this is no small matter. As we live longer, many of us will now spend more than a third of our lives in this hormonal state. The good news? There’s lots we can do to help. With the right strategy, support, and skin science, you can take back control—and thrive.

Why Menopause Impacts Skin So Profoundly

Hormonal shifts during menopause—especially the drop in oestrogen—have a dramatic effect on the skin. Collagen levels fall by as much as 30% within the first five years after menopause, which can lead to thinner, more fragile skin that feels dry and reactive. You might notice increased sensitivity, dullness, or a loss of elasticity. These are not just signs of aging—they’re signs of hormonal change. And that means they need a specific, strategic response.

(1) Preserve Collagen: A Dermatologist’s First Priority

Collagen is the skin’s scaffolding – when it declines, you see the effects in texture, tone, and firmness. At our clinic, we focus on preserving what you have and stimulating your skin to produce more. That starts with daily broad-spectrum SPF 50+ (yes, even in winter), and the gentle introduction of a retinoid to help build collagen, reduce fine lines and even out pigmentation.

We also recommend topical Vitamin C to protect your existing collagen from free radical damage and oxidative stress. And barrier-repair ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides are essential, especially for anyone just starting retinoids or dealing with increased sensitivity.

One exciting development for menopausal skin is MEP (methyl estradiolpropanoate), an ingredient that mimics the skin-supportive effects of oestrogen without systemic hormonal activity. Found in products like Emepelle, it’s showing great promise in improving skin tone, hydration and fine lines.

(2) Strengthen the Skin Barrier to Beat Dryness

Menopausal skin loses its ability to hold onto water. This means you need to double down on hydration—through your cleanser, serum, moisturiser and beyond. Swap to a gentle, non-foaming cleanser, layer humectants like glycerin to attract moisture, and seal it in with an emollient-rich moisturiser.

Flawless Moisturiser Intense is a true skin saviour when navigating the menopause. Designed to reinforce the barrier, it’s clinically proven to support the skin from the first application and works brilliantly alongside retinoids— it’s especially brilliant for those with sensitive skin or if it’s your first time trying one.

(3) Support Skin from Within

The inside-out approach really matters in menopause. We often recommend targeted supplements to boost skin performance, energy, and resilience.

• Vitamin D is essential—many women need more than the minimum 1000 iu per day.
• Omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed or oily fish help calm inflammation and maintain skin bounce.
• Nicotinamide (Vitamin B3) helps reduce UV damage and protects skin cells from oxidative stress.
• Magnesium plays a quiet but crucial role in improving sleep and supporting overnight skin repair.

(4) Sleep Smarter for Skin Health

Sleep is the skin’s reset button—but menopause can really throw it off. Poor sleep quality not only worsens skin texture but increases signs of glycation, which stiffens collagen. Melatonin, the sleep hormone, also works as an antioxidant—making quality rest even more important for long-term glow.

We encourage magnesium supplementation, reduced alcohol intake, and avoiding high-glycaemic foods that can affect both sleep and skin.

What Happens to Hair During Menopause?

Hair is often the part of menopause that catches women off guard. You may notice thinning at the temples, a drop in volume at the crown, or that your lashes and brows no longer frame your face like they used to.

We approach hair changes with the same level of precision and empathy. We suggest switching to sulphate-free, scalp-friendly shampoos and conditioners that support volume. Targeted scalp serums containing peptides, caffeine, or growth factors can boost follicle function. And if needed, we may recommend topical minoxidil. There are lots of options so if your hair is on your mind, come and see us.

For lashes and brows, topical bimatoprost can help restore definition. Plus, subtle brow shaping and tinting can make a huge difference to overall facial harmony, often more than people expect.

Menopause Is a New Chapter—Not the End of the Story

We’re living longer—and spending more of our lives post-menopause than ever before. This isn’t the end of your skin story. With early intervention, smart skincare, and supportive in-clinic treatments, you can maintain healthy, glowing skin that reflects how vibrant you feel on the inside.

At Dr Sam Bunting + Associates, our dermatologists are here to help you take back control, with tailored support that evolves with your skin. Whether you’re just starting to notice changes or need expert help managing persistent concerns, we’re by your side every step of the way.

If you’d like to book a personal consultation with one of the experts in Dr Sam’s clinics, head here.

To catch up on a brilliant free webinar with Dr Mia Steyn and Dr Rishika Sinha from the Dr Sam Bunting + Associates clinic, head here.