Perimenopause and Your Skin: Whats Really Happening and How to Fix it

Lexus Childs-Harris
Sep 7
3 min read

Perimenopause is a natural transition in a woman's life, marking the period leading up to menopause. This phase can bring various physical and emotional changes, one of the most noticeable being alterations in skin health. Understanding how perimenopause affects the skin equips women to prepare for and manage these changes effectively.

What is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the transitional phase before menopause, typically beginning in women in their 40s. However, it can start earlier, sometimes in the late 30s. During this time, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen, leading to various symptoms. According to research, about 60% of women will experience changes in their skin condition during this phase. Symptoms can include irregular periods, hot flashes, mood swings, and changes in skin texture and appearance.

The hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause can significantly impact skin health. As estrogen levels drop, the skin's elasticity, hydration, and overall vitality may diminish. This decline often results in visible changes that can affect self-confidence.

Why Your Skin Changes in Perimenopause

If you’ve started noticing sudden dryness, dullness, or even breakouts in your 40s, you’re not imagining it. These changes aren’t just aging—they’re hormonal.

During perimenopause, estrogen and progesterone levels start to decline, while androgens can sometimes rise. This hormonal rollercoaster can lead to:

Dryness and irritation – less estrogen means less natural moisture.
Loss of elasticity – collagen production slows, causing fine lines and sagging.
Breakouts – shifting hormones can trigger acne, even if you never had it before.
Thinning skin – making you more sensitive to the sun and environmental stressors.

The Hormone-Skin Connection

Estrogen plays a huge role in skin health. It helps maintain:

Collagen levels for firmness and elasticity
Oil and moisture balance
Blood flow, which keeps skin glowing

As estrogen drops, so does hydration and resilience. That’s why so many women feel like they don’t recognize their skin anymore.

Close-up view of a skincare product on a bathroom counter — A close-up view of a skincare product on a bathroom counter

How to Fix It: Skin + Hormone Solutions

At Gold IVy Wellness in Middlebury, CT, we combine aesthetics and women’s health services to help you restore balance:

✨ Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Supports estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone levels, helping skin regain hydration and glow.

✨ HydraFacials & RF Microneedling: Stimulate collagen, improve texture, and hydrate deeply.

✨ Medical-Grade Skincare: Products designed to penetrate and actually work on hormonally shifting skin.

✨ Lifestyle Support: Nutrition, stress management, and supplement guidance to support healthy skin from the inside out.

Lifestyle Changes to Support Skin Health

Balanced Diet

A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and vitamins can boost skin health during perimenopause. Foods like leafy greens, berries, nuts, and fatty fish, such as salmon, are excellent choices. For example, incorporating omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish can improve skin hydration and decrease inflammation.

Regular Exercise

Engaging in regular physical activity can improve circulation and promote overall skin health. Exercise helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to the skin, enhancing its appearance and texture. Studies have shown that just 30 minutes of moderate exercise five times a week can have a positive impact on skin complexion.

Stress Management

Stress can exacerbate skin issues. Therefore, finding effective ways to manage stress is crucial. Practices like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can help maintain emotional balance and support skin health. Even dedicating 10 minutes a day to mindfulness can significantly reduce stress levels.