What should you know about menopause skin changes?

As hormone levels change, skin may hold less moisture and feel tight, rough, itchy, or more easily irritated. Fine lines may become more noticeable, and small cuts or bruises can feel more troublesome. Some people notice acne, facial flushing, or increased sensitivity to products that were previously comfortable.

Not every new rash is caused by menopause. Eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, allergy, infection, medicine reactions, and other conditions can produce redness or itching. A changing mole or a sore that does not heal should be examined rather than treated as a routine hormonal change.

Wash with lukewarm water and a fragrance-free, non-foaming cleanser. Apply a plain moisturiser soon after washing, and choose creams or ointments when a light lotion is not enough. Avoid scrubbing, very hot showers, fragranced products, and frequent product changes.

Use shade, clothing, and a broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed skin. Keep nails short if itching leads to scratching, and use a humidifier if indoor air feels dry. Introduce one product at a time and test it on a small area first. A clinician or pharmacist can suggest treatment for persistent eczema, acne, flushing, or itch.

Arrange a review for a rash that persists, spreads, cracks, oozes, or interferes with sleep. Seek prompt assessment for a rapidly changing mole, a sore that bleeds or does not heal, a painful blistering rash, or facial swelling. Breathing difficulty with a sudden rash is an emergency.

Does this look like hormonal dryness, eczema, rosacea, allergy, or another condition? Which cleanser and moisturiser suit my skin? Do I need treatment for itch, acne, or flushing? Which mole or sore changes should I report?