Menopause, Mood Swings & Moisturiser: Why Your Skin Deserves a Standing Ovation During "The Change"

Let’s be real—when it comes to menopause, women have been handed the short end of the (sweaty) stick for far too long. Hot flushes? Mood swings? Sleepless nights that turn you into a cranky bat by breakfast? And yet somehow, society expects us to just put up, shut up, and smile politely while our hormones throw a wild rave inside us.

Well… not today, Satan. Not today.

Because here’s the deal: menopause (and its sneaky little cousin, perimenopause) doesn’t just mess with your cycle and your emotions—it also has a lot to say about your skin. And no one warned us that one day we’d wake up wondering why our skin suddenly feels like a piece of antique parchment.

Let’s talk about it, shall we?

Perimenopause vs Menopause:

What’s the Difference (Besides Feeling Slightly Unhinged)?

Perimenopause is the “change before The Change.” It can start as early as 35 (rude) and last up to a whole decade (double rude). During this time, your hormones are essentially in rehearsals for the big menopause performance—and they’ve clearly skipped the dress rehearsal. You might not notice the changes right away, but trust me, your skin does.

Common Skin Complaints (a.k.a. The Skin Plot Twist No One Asked For)

Here’s what a lot of us experience during perimenopause and menopause:

• Dry, flaky skin (like your face forgot how to moisturise itself)

• Thinning and sagging (gravity said “hey bestie”)

• Wrinkles showing up uninvited

• Sudden redness and hot flushes (usually when you're trying to be cute in public)

• Itchiness and sensitivity

• Menopausal acne (because apparently, puberty wasn’t enough trauma)

Why does this happen? Collagen and elastin—your skin’s natural plumpness providers—start packing up and leaving town. Cell turnover slows down, oil glands shrink, and natural moisturising fats take early retirement. In short: your skin needs more TLC than ever.

What Can You Actually Do About It?

Let’s talk solutions, not stress. Here's how to love your skin through the madness:

💧 Hydration, hydration, hydration – Add a hyaluronic acid serum to your routine like your skin’s life depends on it (because it kinda does).☀️ SPF every single day – Yes, even when it’s grey outside and you’re not feeling cute. UV rays are sneaky little devils.🧴 Moisturiser is your new best mate – Look for ceramides to help strengthen your skin barrier.🌙 Night cream is a vibe – Pick one that hydrates deeply, soothes irritation, and gives saggy bits a gentle pep talk.🧼 Don’t skip the acid serum – A mild acid like lactic or mandelic helps with skin texture and glow.

And What About Your Mind?

Because let’s be honest—this stage isn’t just hard on the skin. It can be a real sucker punch to your confidence. So here's how to treat yourself like the queen you are:

🧘 Move your body, soothe your soul – Yoga, tai chi, a good long walk, or even a kitchen dance-off to Beyoncé. Regular movement helps with stress, sleep, and those wild mood swings.🥗 Eat like your skin is listening – Loads of colourful veggies, healthy fats, and water. Skip spicy food and caffeine when you can—unless you love spontaneous combustion.💬 Talk to yourself nicely – Daily affirmations. Out loud. In the mirror. No eye-rolling allowed. Tell yourself, “I’m strong. I’m beautiful. I’m doing my best.” Because it’s all true.💚 Make your skincare your self-care – That moment in the mirror? That’s your time. Breathe. Massage. Glow. Repeat.

The Final Word?

You are not losing your mind—you are evolving. This stage isn’t about giving up your glow. It’s about finding a new one. A deeper one. And yes, your skin might throw the odd tantrum (who doesn’t?), but it also tells the story of every laugh line, every moment of growth, every challenge you’ve conquered.

So take care of it. Speak kindly to it. And whatever you do—never let menopause make you feel small.

Because sis, you’re a whole masterpiece in progress.