As soon as the sun comes out, I start hearing the same comments from patients:
“I seem to burn much more easily than I used to.”
“I’ve suddenly developed brown patches on my face.”
“My skin feels so dry after being in the sun.”
If any of these sound familiar – read on!
One of the biggest surprises for many women is just how differently their skin behaves during and after menopause. The reason is largely down to falling oestrogen levels, which affect almost every layer of the skin.
While we often think about menopause in terms of hot flushes or disrupted sleep, the changes happening in our skin can be quite significant – and sunshine tends to highlight them even more.
Why does menopausal skin react differently?
Oestrogen is one of the hormones responsible for keeping our skin healthy. It helps maintain hydration, supports collagen production, strengthens the skin barrier and even influences how our skin responds to UV light.
As oestrogen declines, our skin gradually becomes thinner, drier and less resilient. That means the sun can have a much bigger impact than it once did.
You may burn more easily
Many women notice that they become more sensitive to the sun during menopause.
Because the skin barrier becomes thinner and holds less moisture, it simply isn’t as well protected as it used to be. You may find that you burn more quickly, become irritated more easily and take longer to recover after too much sun.
Pigmentation often becomes more noticeable
This is probably one of the most common concerns I see in the clinic.
Hormonal changes can make pigment cells behave less predictably, so even small amounts of UV exposure can trigger darker patches of pigmentation.
You may notice:
- Sunspots or age spots appearing more quickly
- Existing pigmentation becoming darker
- Melasma, which causes larger patches of brown or grey pigmentation, particularly across the cheeks, forehead and upper lip
Once pigmentation develops, it can be difficult to treat, so prevention really is key.
The sun speeds up collagen loss
Perhaps the biggest change during menopause is the rapid decline in collagen.
In fact, women can lose around 30% of their skin’s collagen during the first five years after menopause.
Collagen gives our skin its strength and firmness, while elastin helps it stay bouncy and resilient. As these decline, we start to notice looser skin, deeper lines and a loss of definition.
Unfortunately, UV rays accelerate collagen breakdown even further. That’s why protecting your skin from the sun isn’t just about preventing burns – it’s one of the best ways to help preserve firmness and elasticity.
Dryness, redness and sensitivity become more common
If your skin suddenly feels tight after being outdoors, there’s a good reason.
Menopausal skin produces fewer natural oils and loses water much more easily. Heat and sunshine increase this moisture loss, often leaving skin feeling dehydrated, itchy or uncomfortable.
For women who experience rosacea or facial flushing, warm weather can also trigger more redness.
Looking after menopausal skin in the summer
The good news is that a few simple changes can make a real difference.
I always recommend wearing a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day, even when it’s cloudy. Choosing a sunscreen with hydrating ingredients can also help support the skin barrier while protecting against UV damage.
A hat, sunglasses and a bit of shade during the hottest part of the day are simple habits that really do protect your skin over the long term.
If you are using prescribed oestrogen gels or sprays, remember to leave around an hour before applying sunscreen over the same area so your medication has time to absorb properly.
My advice
Menopause changes your skin, but it doesn’t mean you have to accept that your skin will inevitably become dry, fragile or lose its glow.
Understanding what’s happening is the first step. Protecting your skin from the sun, supporting your collagen and choosing treatments that work with your changing hormones can all make a real difference.
Every woman’s skin is different, which is why I always believe in creating a plan that’s tailored to you. With the right skincare, sensible sun protection and evidence-based treatments, it’s absolutely possible to keep your skin healthy, resilient and looking its best throughout menopause and beyond.
Rachel
Hormone Skin Specialist at The Female Health Clinic
If you have noticed changes in your skin and would like to learn more about your treatment options, my colleague Arabella and I would be happy to discuss the options available and help you determine what may be most appropriate for you.
To find out more or arrange a complimentary consultation, please call 01252 915333 or email info@thefemalehealthclinic.co.uk. Our team will be happy to help.
