To support skin barrier repair during menopause, focus on gentle cleansing, regular moisturising and daily sun protection. Ingredients such as ceramides and hyaluronic acid can help care for dry skin, while reducing harsh exfoliation can help prevent further irritation.

As oestrogen levels fall, skin can become drier, thinner and less firm. Your usual skincare routine may no longer feel right, making menopause a good time to reassess what your skin needs.

For more advice on caring for your skin during this stage, download our free Menopause Guide.

What Is the Skin Barrier?

The skin barrier is the protective outer layer of your skin. Made up of skin cells and lipids, it helps retain moisture and protect against external irritants.

When this barrier is compromised, moisture escapes more easily and skin can become uncomfortable. Common signs include:

• Dryness or flaking
• Tightness
• Itchiness
• Redness
• Increased sensitivity or stinging when applying skincare

How Does Menopause Affect the Skin?

During menopause, skin becomes less able to hold onto water. Falling oestrogen levels also contribute to thinner skin, while collagen loss can affect firmness. Together, these changes can leave your complexion feeling drier and more easily irritated.

Hormonal changes are only part of the picture. Harsh cleansers, hot water and excessive exfoliation can add to dryness and sensitivity. Supporting menopausal skin means adapting your routine to how your skin feels.

How to Support Skin Barrier Repair During Menopause

Choose Ingredients That Support Hydration

You do not need a complicated routine to care for menopausal skin. Start with products that help replenish moisture and support the skin’s protective barrier.

Ceramides

Ceramides are lipids found naturally in the skin. They help form the barrier between skin cells and limit moisture loss. Ceramide-containing moisturisers can be useful for dry skin that needs barrier support.

Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid attracts and holds water, helping hydrate the skin. In skincare, it can help skin feel softer and look more plump. Follow a hydrating serum with moisturiser to help retain that moisture.

Cleanse Gently

Choose a cleanser that leaves your skin feeling comfortable. Use lukewarm water and avoid scrubbing or rubbing your face dry. If your skin feels tight after cleansing, your cleanser or cleansing frequency may need adjusting.

Reduce Irritating Skincare

More exfoliation is not always the answer to rough or flaky skin. Over-exfoliation can increase dryness and redness, particularly when combined with products containing retinol. If your skin is stinging, peeling or unusually sensitive, simplify your routine and pause exfoliating acids, scrubs and other products that irritate it. Introduce products gradually once your skin feels comfortable again.

A Simple Skincare Routine for Menopausal Skin

Consistency matters more than the number of products you use. Build your routine around cleansing, moisturising and sun protection. You can also include a toner for an extra boost of hydration if you want to.

Explore the SkinBase Essentials range to build a routine around your skin’s needs.

Can SkinBase Hydro Help Menopausal Skin?

SkinBase Hydro combines exfoliation with personalised serums to address individual skin concerns. For suitable menopausal skin, it can offer a treatment focused on an infusion of hydration and a refreshed appearance.

Your therapist will assess your skin and discuss the Brightening, Clarifying or Renewing serum options. The right choice depends on your concerns and your skin’s current condition.

Lifestyle Habits That Support Skin Health

Skincare is one part of caring for yourself during menopause. Support your overall wellbeing with:

• A varied, balanced diet
• Adequate hydration
• Regular sleep
• Time to relax and manage stress

Care for Your Skin as Its Needs Change

Menopausal skin can benefit from a gentler, more consistent approach. Start with the essentials: cleanse carefully, moisturise regularly and protect your skin from the sun. For more guidance on skin changes during menopause, find your nearest SkinBase Therapist, and download our free Menopause Guide.

Find a Therapist

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