Restoring Skin Health with Hormones After Menopause

One of the most common (and often frustrating) changes after menopause is what happens to our skin. Wrinkles seem to appear overnight, skin feels drier, and elasticity fades. These shifts aren’t just about “getting older” — they’re directly linked to our hormones, especially estrogen.

Estrogen: Your Skin’s Best Friend

Estrogen helps keep skin thick, hydrated, and full of collagen. When estrogen levels drop (as they do after menopause), skin thins, dries out, and loses its bounce. You may have even noticed this on a smaller scale before menopause — during your period, when estrogen dips, your skin can feel drier and more delicate.

There are actually many estrogen receptors in our skin, particularly around the eyes. That’s why some women have long used estrogen creams in this area. Research shows that topical estrogen:

• Increases skin thickness

• Boosts collagen and hyaluronic acid (for hydration)

• Improves dryness and reduces wrinkles

  
  

Topical estriol (a gentler estrogen) can show even more skin improvements than estradiol, though it is often much more expensive. Many women (myself included) use their vaginal estradiol cream on their face, neck, and hands — it’s effective, safe, and affordable. Studies confirm it stays local to the skin without significantly raising blood estrogen levels.

Progesterone: More Than Uterine Protection

I often say progesterone deserves more respect-- and here is one place where it does. Beyond balancing estrogen, a 2% topical progesterone cream has been shown to reduce wrinkle depth and improve skin firmness. This was news to me — and yes, I’ve already called my favorite compounding pharmacist to see about adding this to my skincare routine!

DHEA: A Bright Idea

Another hormone option for skin is DHEA. Studies show that a 1% topical DHEA cream can improve thin, papery skin and restore brightness to the face and hands. Yet another option to explore for healthier skin after menopause.

Don’t Forget the Classics

Hormones aren’t the only answer. Retinoids like tretinoin (Retin-A) remain one of the best tools for rejuvenating skin. I’ve personally found that since starting hormone therapy and estrogen cream, my skin tolerates tretinoin so much better — and the results are even better than before.

The Bottom Line

Menopause doesn’t have to mean giving up on healthy, vibrant skin. Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and DHEA play a direct role in how our skin looks and feels — and with the right therapies, we can restore thickness, elasticity, and hydration.

At Dragonfly Menopause Care, I love helping women discover not only how to feel better on the inside but also how to look healthier and more confident on the outside. If you’re noticing changes in your skin and wondering what your options are, let’s talk about a treatment plan that works for you.