Perimenopause skin problems: practical guidance

Hormone fluctuation can affect the skin barrier, moisture balance and oil glands. That may leave skin rough or tight, while blocked pores can cause spots. Heat, sweating, stress, fragranced products and frequent washing may add irritation. Perimenopause often presents with other changes, including irregular periods, hot flushes or night sweats, but skin symptoms can also have separate causes.

The appearance and timing offer useful clues. Scaling may suggest irritation or dermatitis; deep tender spots may need acne treatment; repeated flushing can have several triggers. Note whether symptoms follow a product, heat, shaving, a menstrual change or a medicine, and take a photograph if a rash comes and goes.

Cleanse with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free product. Apply moisturiser soon after washing, choose soft breathable fabrics and avoid picking or scrubbing. If you are trying an active product, introduce it slowly and stop if burning or swelling develops. Keep products simple until the skin settles.

Use protection from sunlight on exposed areas and avoid known heat triggers when flushing is a problem. A pharmacist or clinician can help choose treatment for acne, eczema-like irritation or troublesome itching, especially if over-the-counter products have not helped.

Arrange prompt medical advice for rapidly spreading redness, warmth, pus, fever, facial swelling, blistering or severe pain. Seek assessment for a mole that changes, bleeds or fails to heal, or for itching that is widespread, intense or associated with yellowing skin. Sudden severe swelling or breathing difficulty requires emergency help.

Ask whether the pattern could be dermatitis, acne, infection, allergy or a hormone-related change; which products are suitable; and whether a medicine, supplement or treatment should be reviewed. Tell the clinician when it began and what makes it better or worse.