Peri-Menopause Skincare: What to Avoid and What to Embrace

Peri-menopause marks a significant transition in a woman’s life—one that not only brings internal hormonal shifts but also tangible changes to the skin. As oestrogen levels decline, the skin's texture, hydration, elasticity, and overall vitality can be affected. At The Treatment Centre, we believe this stage is not about fighting change but embracing it with knowledge, confidence, and tailored skincare.

In this guide, we delve into what your skin truly needs during peri-menopause, what to avoid, and what to embrace for lasting skin health.

During peri-menopause, oestrogen—a hormone crucial to skin health—begins to decline. This hormonal shift can result in:

• Thinner skin: Reduced collagen production weakens the skin’s structural integrity.

• Dryness and dehydration: Sebum (oil) production slows, leading to a compromised skin barrier.

• Increased sensitivity: The skin may become more reactive to products and environmental stressors.

• Dullness and uneven tone: A slower cell turnover rate can make the complexion appear lacklustre.

Understanding these changes is the first step towards choosing the right care strategy.

Potent ingredients like high-percentage retinol, strong exfoliating acids, or alcohol-heavy products can strip the skin, exacerbating dryness and sensitivity. While actives can be beneficial, they must be introduced with care and often require buffering agents or slower-release formulations.

Better approach: Look for gentle alternatives like encapsulated retinol, retinal, polyhydroxy acids (PHAs), or bakuchiol, which offer results without irritation.

During this phase, lightweight gels might not provide enough nourishment. Likewise, using the wrong kind of occlusive (especially those that clog pores) can cause breakouts.

Avoid: Fragranced or astringent moisturisers that might further sensitise the skin.

Peri-menopausal skin requires support, not stress. Over-exfoliation can damage the skin barrier, leading to inflammation, redness, and premature ageing.

Tip: Limit exfoliation to 1–2 times a week and choose formulations with skin-barrier support.

Skincare is holistic. During peri-menopause, nutrition, sleep, and stress management become just as crucial as topical care.

Look for ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and peptides. These ingredients help rebuild the skin’s lipid barrier, improve hydration, and promote a more resilient complexion.

Hydration is critical. Layering products—like hydrating serums followed by richer moisturisers—helps maintain moisture levels and supports the skin's structure.

Hydration heroes: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, squalane, and panthenol.

Sun protection becomes even more vital. As collagen declines, skin is more vulnerable to UV damage. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is non-negotiable—even on cloudy days.

A personalised approach is essential. At The Treatment Centre, we begin with an in-depth consultation to understand your unique skin journey. We consider your hormonal health, lifestyle, and goals to create a tailored skincare and treatment plan.

Popular peri-menopause-friendly treatments include:

• LED light therapy to reduce inflammation and promote collagen.

• Hydration-focused Treatments for deep skin nourishment.

• Microneedling (when appropriate) to enhance elasticity and texture.

Skin changes can affect confidence. At The Treatment Centre, we value emotional wellness alongside physical skin health. We’re here not only to treat your skin but to support your journey with empathy, education, and empowerment.

Peri-menopause is not a time of decline—it’s a time of transformation. With the right support, skincare can be a powerful tool to navigate this chapter with grace, strength, and radiant skin health.

At The Treatment Centre, we’re honoured to walk this journey with you. Let’s work together to create a skincare plan that honours your skin’s evolution and nurtures its long-term vitality. Book your Skin Health Discovery Session.