Peri-Menopause and Acne: What’s Causing These Breakouts?
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Time to read 2 min
Acne isn’t just a teenage concern—many women experience unexpected breakouts during peri-menopause, a transitional stage that can feel like uncharted territory for the skin. At The Treatment Centre, we often hear from clients who are surprised and frustrated by this resurgence of acne after years of clear skin. Understanding the ‘why’ behind these changes is the first step toward managing them with care and confidence.
What is Peri-Menopause?
Peri-menopause is the phase leading up to menopause, typically beginning in a woman's 40s, though it can start earlier, from 30-35. It’s characterised by fluctuating hormone levels, particularly oestrogen and progesterone, which directly influence the skin’s behaviour. This stage can last several years and is known for its unpredictable impact on mood, energy, sleep—and yes, skin.
Why Acne Resurfaces During Peri-Menopause
Hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause are the main culprits. Here's how they can lead to breakouts:
Increased Androgens: As oestrogen declines, androgens (male hormones present in all women) can become more dominant. This can increase sebum (oil) production, leading to clogged pores and breakouts.
Slower Skin Renewal: Ageing skin renews more slowly, meaning dead skin cells linger on the surface longer, increasing the risk of blockages and inflammation.
Stress and Lifestyle Changes: Many women navigate significant life changes during this time—career shifts, family pressures, or sleep disturbances. Stress hormones like cortisol can also increase oil production and inflammation.
Changes in Skincare Needs: What worked in your 20s or 30s may no longer serve your skin. Rich creams or active ingredients might need adjusting to accommodate changes in sensitivity, hydration, and resilience.
How to Support Your Skin During Peri-Menopause
At The Treatment Centre, we believe in treating the root cause, not just the symptoms. Here's how we approach acne management during peri-menopause:
1. Personalised Skin Assessments
Your skin tells a unique story. We begin with an in-depth consultation to understand your skin’s history, current challenges, and lifestyle. This helps us craft a tailored plan that evolves with your skin’s needs.
2. Balancing and Calming Treatments
Our professional treatments focus on restoring balance. We use non-inflammatory, barrier-supportive protocols that clear congestion without compromising the skin’s integrity. We also incorporate calming ingredients to reduce reactivity and redness.
3. Holistic Lifestyle Guidance
Acne during peri-menopause is rarely just a surface issue. We provide insights on how nutrition, stress management, sleep, and movement can all contribute to clearer skin. It's about supporting your body and skin from the inside out.
4. Ingredient Education
We help demystify your skincare shelf. Ingredients like niacinamide, salicylic acid, and gentle retinoids can play a role—but they must be used strategically to support maturing skin. Overuse or misuse can disrupt the barrier and worsen breakouts.
Final Thoughts
Experiencing acne during peri-menopause can feel disheartening, but you’re not alone—and it’s not a sign you’re doing anything wrong. Your skin is simply responding to a shifting internal landscape. At The Treatment Centre, we walk with you through this journey, offering expert care, personalised strategies, and a deep understanding of what your skin truly needs.
If you're navigating peri-menopausal skin changes, book a Skin Health Discovery Session with us today. Together, we’ll restore balance and support your skin’s journey to long-term health and clarity.
