Perimenopause Skin Changes
The Doctor’s Note Series
The Doctor’s Note Series provides physician insight into the most common questions women have about perimenopause and midlife wellness.
These articles are designed to help women better understand their bodies and support their health during hormonal transitions.
The Doctor’s Note Series provides physician insights on:
• Perimenopause and metabolism
• Hormonal health and midlife wellness
• Breast cancer prevention
• Skin and hair changes during hormonal transitions
• Women’s health and longevity
Read Doctor’s Note Below
Perimenopause Skin Changes:
Why Skin Becomes Drier and Less Elastic in Your 40s
By April Spencer, M.D.
Many women notice unexpected changes in their skin during midlife.
These changes may include:
• Increased dryness
• Fine lines
• Reduced elasticity
• Slower skin recovery
These shifts are often related to hormonal changes during perimenopause.
Why Skin Changes During Perimenopause
Estrogen plays a critical role in maintaining skin health.
It supports:
• Collagen production
• Hydration
• Elasticity
• Skin thickness
As estrogen declines, the skin can become thinner and drier.
Collagen Loss in Midlife
Research suggests women may lose up to 30% of their skin collagen in the first five years around menopause.
This contributes to visible changes in skin texture and elasticity.
Supporting Skin Health During Midlife
Strategies include:
• Hydration
• Antioxidant support
• Sun protection
• Targeted skincare
Supporting the skin internally and externally helps maintain skin vitality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does skin become drier in perimenopause?
Declining estrogen reduces the skin’s ability to retain moisture.
Does menopause affect collagen?
Yes. Estrogen helps support collagen production, which declines during menopause.
Why do wrinkles appear faster in midlife?
Reduced collagen and skin elasticity contribute to faster wrinkle formation.
How can women support skin health?
Hydration, antioxidant support, and protective skincare routines can help.
About the Author
April Spencer, M.D. is a board-certified breast surgeon, mother of two, and the founder of Dr. Spencer’s Global Breast Health & Wellness Center.
With more than two decades of experience caring for women with breast cancer, Dr. Spencer is dedicated to advancing prevention, education, and proactive wellness strategies that empower women to take control of their health long before disease develops.
She is also the creator of Taylor Made RX Cosmetics, a physician-guided wellness and beauty brand developed to support women’s health from the inside out through targeted supplements, skincare, and hair care solutions designed for the unique needs of women navigating midlife and hormonal transitions.
Dr. Spencer’s work integrates medicine, prevention, and wellness to help women live healthier, more vibrant lives at every stage.
Explore the Doctor’s Note Series
The Doctor’s Note Series provides physician insights on:
• Perimenopause and metabolism
• Hormonal health and midlife wellness
• Breast cancer prevention
• Skin and hair changes during hormonal transitions
• Women’s health and longevity