During menopause, the marked decline in oestrogen accelerates changes in the skin, leading to a loss of up to 30% of collagen within the first five years, as well as reduced elasticity and natural sebum production. This new hormonal landscape may also lead to increased skin dryness, sagging, itching, sensitivity and even hormonal acne breakouts.
As at other stages of life, it can be beneficial to combine external and internal care with healthy lifestyle habits. At this stage in particular, perhaps more than ever, consistency is important, as is paying attention to the changes taking place, since they can influence our wellbeing throughout this new phase of life.
Changes in the skin are only one part of the menopausal transition. For a comprehensive overview of how menopause can affect different symptoms — from hot flushes to hormonal changes — read our complete guide to perimenopause and mushrooms used in Traditional Medicine, including scientific evidence relating to each symptom.
WHY THE SKIN CHANGES DURING MENOPAUSE (COLLAGEN, ELASTICITY, ITCHING)
The hormonal decline temporarily accelerates collagen loss and affects elastin, hydration and the skin barrier. Age, genetics, smoking, sun exposure and pre-existing skin conditions also influence this process.
- Collagen: oestrogen supports the activity of fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing and maintaining collagen. As oestrogen levels fall, collagen synthesis decreases and its breakdown accelerates. The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that the skin loses approximately 30% of its collagen during the first five years of menopause, followed by around 2% per year over the next 20 years. This contributes to thinner skin, wrinkles and increased skin fragility.
- Elasticity and firmness: collagen provides structure, while elastin allows the skin to return to its original shape after stretching. Oestrogen deficiency reduces dermal thickness and alters both the quantity and organisation of these fibres. The result is reduced elasticity, greater laxity and skin that recovers less effectively after being stretched. The Menopause Society lists reduced skin thickness and elasticity, collagen loss and increased sagging and wrinkles among the characteristic changes associated with menopause.
- Dryness and body itching: with lower oestrogen levels, the skin becomes less able to retain water and produces fewer of the substances that support its barrier function and natural lubrication. As the barrier weakens, water loss increases, dryness and flaking can develop, and nerve endings become more exposed to irritants. Dryness may progress to asteatotic eczema and cause itching; dry weather, soaps, hot showers and sun damage can make it worse.
- Vulvar or vaginal itching: this is a related phenomenon, although it is not the same as itching of the skin elsewhere on the body. A lack of oestrogen causes the genital epithelium to become thinner, reduces secretions and blood flow, raises pH and alters the vaginal flora. Fibroblasts also become less active, collagen changes and elastin fibres become fragmented. This reduces moisture and elasticity and may cause itching, burning, irritation and pain during penetration.
WHAT SCIENCE SAYS ABOUT MUSHROOMS USED IN TRADITIONAL MEDICINE FOR SKIN CARE
Science and research in skin care are advancing faster than ever. We are continually learning more about the effects of new ingredients, particularly natural ones, and how certain combinations may support skin care.
When we focus on mushrooms used in Traditional Medicine, three species stand out in particular in the field of skin care. Below, we highlight the main areas currently being studied:
LION'S MANE (HERICIUM ERINACEUS)
New studies are investigating its moisturising and antioxidant properties, as well as potential anti-inflammatory effects that could support tissue regeneration.
When combined with other skin care ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, Centella asiatica and aloe vera, it may also be of interest for skin concerns associated with hormonal changes and ageing.
REISHI (GANODERMA LUCIDUM)
- Potential anti-inflammatory and reparative activity: studies using extracts have explored their application in atopic dermatitis, cutaneous sarcoidosis and the promotion of wound healing.
- Potential antibacterial activity: there is evidence of activity against bacterial strains of clinical interest.
- Potential anti-ageing and depigmenting effects: research has explored its activity against photoageing and its skin-brightening properties through inhibition of the enzyme tyrosinase, which is involved in melanin production.
CORDYCEPS (CORDYCEPS SINENSIS)
- Potential activity related to energy and oxygenation: this could help reduce visible signs of tiredness in the skin.
- Potential protection against radiation: findings have been reported regarding protective activity against damage caused by UVB radiation.
* The word “potential” is used because, although the preliminary findings are positive, the number of studies remains limited and further scientific publications are needed.
RECOMMENDED SKIN CARE ROUTINE
Below is a checklist to help you quickly assess whether your current care routine is appropriate for this stage of life or whether there are any additional steps you may wish to include:
Face and body
- Daily sun protection: use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, including during winter and on the face, neck, hands and any other exposed areas. This is the most important preventive measure because sun exposure adds to hormonally driven collagen loss and contributes to pigmentation, wrinkles and thinning of the skin.
- Gentle cleansing: replace conventional soap — particularly deodorant soaps — with gentle cleansers.
- Frequent moisturising: apply a moisturiser after bathing or showering and reapply whenever the skin feels dry. Fragrance-free products are recommended. Some professional associations highlight formulations containing glycerine or hyaluronic acid, which help the skin retain water.
- For loss of firmness: skin care routines designed to support collagen production may be introduced.
- Avoid aggressive treatments without professional guidance: intensive exfoliation, microdermabrasion, waxing or rejuvenating treatments may damage or irritate the skin more easily at this stage.
- General lifestyle habits: regular exercise, a healthy diet, stopping smoking, weight management and good sleep hygiene.
Moisturisers, lubricants and sexual activity
The British Menopause Society distinguishes between two types of product:
- Vaginal lubricant: used at the time of sexual activity to reduce friction and pain.
- Vaginal moisturiser: used regularly, independently of sexual activity; the guidance suggests at least twice a week. It helps replace natural secretions, retain water and partially normalise pH.
It is advisable to choose products specifically formulated for vaginal use, with a pH and osmolality compatible with the vaginal mucosa. Oil-based lubricants may damage latex condoms.
Natural formulations with specific ingredient synergies can help support vaginal hydration. At Hifas da Terra, we have spent more than 25 years researching the applications of mushrooms in health care and developing safe, high-quality formulations, whether as food supplements or in the form of gels and serums.
HIFAS-Intima Gel is one example of this type of formulation.
This vaginal moisturiser has a gentle pH and is compatible with condom use. Its formulation is particularly noteworthy. It contains Herizumib® — Hifas da Terra's exclusive extract from the mushroom Hericium erinaceus, with prebiotic, highly moisturising and antioxidant properties — together with Bioecolia®, which helps preserve the balance of the microbiome, maintain barrier function and protect the integrity of the intimate area.
Itching and vulvovaginal dryness
- Wash gently with water or a soap substitute and pat dry without rubbing.
- Avoid vaginal douches, intimate sprays, fragranced gels, bubble baths, fragranced toilet paper or sanitary products, and fabric softeners.
- Wear cotton underwear, avoid very tight clothing and change out of wet swimwear or sports clothing promptly to help reduce the risk of vulvovaginal infections.
- Avoid shaving or waxing while irritation is present.