Understanding the Connection Between Menopause and Hyperpigmentation

As women journey through menopause, many begin to notice changes in their skin that feel sudden, unexpected, and sometimes distressing. Among these is hyperpigmentation —the dark patches, spots, or uneven skin tone that seem to develop or worsen seemingly overnight.

But hyperpigmentation isn’t just about sun damage or ageing. During menopause, it’s often the result of complex hormonal changes. In this blog, we’ll explore how menopause drives pigmentation issues, the science behind these shifts, and how to support skin safely and effectively.

The hormone at the heart of many menopausal skin changes is oestrogen . This key hormone influences:

• Melanin regulation (the pigment that gives skin its colour)

• Skin cell turnover

• Barrier function

• Antioxidant capacity

As oestrogen levels decline, melanocyte activity (the pigment-producing cells) becomes dysregulated. This imbalance can lead to increased melanin production, resulting in uneven pigmentation, melasma, and age spots.

• Melasma: Brown or grey-brown patches often appearing on the cheeks, upper lip, or forehead. While often associated with pregnancy or birth control, it can be triggered or worsened by hormonal shifts in menopause.

• Solar lentigines (age spots): Caused by accumulated sun exposure, these become more pronounced with thinning skin and less cellular turnover.

• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): A response to skin injury or inflammation, common in menopausal skin that’s more prone to acne or sensitivity.

Hormones don’t act in isolation. During menopause, a cascade of hormonal shifts contributes to pigmentation and overall skin behaviour:

• Oestrogen: Declines disrupt melanocyte regulation, collagen production, hydration, and antioxidant defences.

• Progesterone: As this drops, it can unmask androgen dominance, increasing the likelihood of breakouts and PIH.

• Cortisol: Heightened stress during menopause raises cortisol levels, which contributes to collagen breakdown and inflammation-driven pigmentation.

• Insulin resistance: More common post-menopause, and it can worsen pigmentation by increasing oxidative stress and triggering melanin overproduction.

Hormonal changes create the perfect storm—but they aren’t working alone. Environmental and lifestyle factors often worsen pigmentation during menopause:

• UV Exposure: Skin becomes more vulnerable to sun-induced pigmentation. Even brief sun exposure can trigger or deepen melasma.

• Heat & Inflammation: Hot flushes, saunas, and even heat from cooking or skincare devices can stimulate melanocytes.

• Irritating skincare products: Menopausal skin is more sensitive. Harsh exfoliants or fragranced products can cause inflammation and PIH.

Focus on tyrosinase-inhibiting ingredients (these slow the enzyme responsible for melanin production), while also supporting hydration and skin resilience:

• Niacinamide

• Vitamin C

• Arbutin

• Kojic Acid

• Licorice Root

• Azelaic Acid

These are gentle, effective choices that suit sensitive, hormonally reactive skin.

Skin in menopause is thinner, drier, and more reactive, so products must soothe and protect as they treat:

• Use creamy, non-foaming cleansers.

• Include ceramides, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and panthenol to rebuild the barrier.

• Avoid harsh acids. Opt for lactic acid or enzyme exfoliants that resurface gently without triggering inflammation.

Some hyperpigmentation may benefit from in-clinic treatments, but not all are appropriate for hormonally sensitised skin. Treatments that support skin health without triggering inflammation or rebound pigmentation include:

• LED Light Therapy: Calms inflammation and supports skin recovery.

• Microneedling (Collagen Induction Therapy): Helps with textural improvement and pigment dispersion when paired with pigment-safe serums.

• Low-dose chemical peels: Lactic acid or mandelic acid peels help with dullness and pigmentation without compromising the barrier.

It's important to work with a therapist who understands menopausal skin physiology to ensure treatments are progressive, not aggressive.

Skincare doesn’t stop at the surface. Internal health plays a vital role in how the skin behaves during menopause:

• Gut Health: A balanced microbiome supports skin clarity and reduces inflammation. Fermented foods, fibre, and probiotics can help.

• Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Whole foods, leafy greens, omega-3 fats, and antioxidants help regulate insulin, cortisol, and pigmentation pathways.

• Stress Management: Chronic stress elevates cortisol and inflammation, both of which contribute to hyperpigmentation. Yoga, walking, and adequate sleep can help bring balance.

Hyperpigmentation during menopause can be frustrating—but it’s not untreatable. The key is to honour the hormonal shifts, support the skin barrier, and adopt a gentle, consistent approach. Quick fixes or harsh treatments can backfire, so patience and professional guidance are essential.

If you would like to learn more about your type of pigment and the treatments we offer, please book your Skin Discovery Session here.