Menopause is often spoken about in hushed tones, usually linked only to hot flashes or mood swings. What many women are unprepared for, however, is the visible and sudden change in their skin. As a cosmetologist and aesthetic physician, Dr. Karuna Malhotra said “I see many women walk into my clinic confused and distressed, asking the same question: “Why does my skin suddenly look tired, dull, and older?” The answer lies in hormones—especially estrogen. Estrogen plays a crucial role in keeping skin firm, hydrated, and resilient. During menopause, estrogen levels decline sharply, and the skin feels the impact almost immediately. Collagen production drops, leading to fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity. Skin that once felt plump and glowing may suddenly appear dry, saggy, and uneven in tone.
One of the most common complaints during menopause is: Excessive dryness: Oil production reduces, weakening the skin barrier and making the skin more sensitive and prone to irritation. Many women who never had “sensitive skin” earlier suddenly start reacting to products they’ve used for years. Sudden pigmentation and uneven skin tone: Hormonal fluctuations can trigger melasma, dark patches, and sun sensitivity. This is often frustrating because women feel they are doing “everything right” but still see worsening pigmentation. Skin thinning: With reduced collagen and slower cell turnover, the skin becomes fragile and heals more slowly. This is why bruising, redness, and visible veins become more noticeable during this phase. Effects the jawline and facial structure: loss of volume around the cheeks and jaw leads to sagging and the appearance of jowls. This is not weight gain—it’s structural ageing of the skin and underlying tissues.
Treatment: The good news is that menopausal skin ageing is manageable with the right approach. “This is the time to stop experimenting with random products and focus on skin barrier repair, hydration, sun protection, and collagen support. Treatments like medical-grade skin boosters, collagen-stimulating procedures, lasers, and mild injectables—when done ethically—can restore freshness without changing facial identity” said Dr. Karuna Malhotra Equally important is lifestyle. Adequate sleep, stress management, protein intake, antioxidants, and regular sun protection play a powerful role in slowing down skin ageing during menopause. Most importantly, women must understand that menopause is not a decline—it is a transition. Skin does not need to look “young” to look healthy. The goal should be comfort, confidence, and natural radiance. “Menopause changes your hormones, not your worth or beauty. With the right skin care, medical guidance, and self-acceptance, this phase can be about renewal rather than loss. Age gracefully—but never invisibly” summed up Dr. Karuna Malhotra. Dr. Karuna Malhotra, Founder, Aesthetic Physician and Skin care expert from Cosmetic Skin and Homeo Clinic Rajouri Garde
