Menopausal acne is an unwelcome surprise for many women who thought they had left their acne-prone years behind. Yet, as hormone levels shift during menopause, breakouts can make a frustrating return. This type of acne is different from what many women experienced as teenagers, as it often comes hand-in-hand with other skin changes like dryness, thinning, and sensitivity.
Fortunately, with a comprehensive approach that includes effective skincare, professional treatments, and lifestyle changes, menopausal acne can be managed successfully.
In this blog, we’ll explore the causes of menopausal acne and share insights into the best treatments and skincare routines to help you achieve clearer, healthier skin.
Why Does Menopausal Acne Happen?
The primary cause of menopausal acne is hormonal imbalance. During menopause, oestrogen levels decrease while androgens (such as testosterone) may remain consistent or even increase. This shift creates an environment where the skin produces more sebum (oil), leading to clogged pores and breakouts. Hormonal fluctuations also contribute to increased skin sensitivity, dryness, and a loss of elasticity—all of which complicate the management of acne at this stage.
Menopausal acne often appears around the chin, jawline, and neck, areas that are particularly sensitive to androgen activity. Unlike teenage acne, which is driven by excess oil production during puberty, menopausal acne is largely triggered by the body’s hormonal adjustments, creating a need for targeted, supportive care.
How Can Menopausal Acne Be Treated Effectively?
Treating menopausal acne requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the underlying hormonal shifts, restores balance to the skin and prevents future breakouts.
Here are some of the most effective treatments for menopausal acne:
Topical treatments are often the first line of defence against acne. Ingredients such as retinoids and salicylic acid work to unclog pores, encourage skin cell turnover and reduce inflammation. Retinoids are particularly effective for menopausal skin as they help to smooth the skin, improve texture, and support collagen production—counteracting some of the ageing effects experienced during Menopause.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can be a highly effective option for treating menopausal acne, especially when hormonal imbalance is the primary culprit. By restoring oestrogen levels, HRT can help reduce androgen dominance, ultimately decreasing sebum production and minimising breakouts. In addition to helping with acne, HRT can also address other menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, and mood changes.
Developing a consistent skincare routine is essential for managing menopausal acne and promoting healthy skin:
For those seeking additional support beyond at-home skincare, professional treatments can be highly effective in managing menopausal acne and enhancing skin health:
Non-Hormonal Treatments for Menopausal Acne
For those who prefer non-hormonal approaches, there are several effective treatments available:
How Long Does Menopausal Acne Last?
The duration of menopausal acne can vary widely. Some women experience breakouts for just a few months, while others may have persistent acne for several years. The key to minimising the impact and duration of menopausal acne is early and consistent treatment. Combining lifestyle adjustments with a targeted skincare regimen, such as using Emepelle and ZO Skincare, can help reduce both the severity and duration of menopausal acne.
Preventing and Managing Acne Scarring
Menopausal acne, if left untreated, can lead to scarring—especially if breakouts are picked or irritated. Thankfully, there are effective ways to reduce scarring and restore skin texture:
Conclusion
Menopausal acne is a frustrating but manageable condition. While it can feel disheartening to deal with breakouts during a time already filled with other physical changes, understanding the causes and knowing how to treat them can make a world of difference. Whether through hormone therapy, targeted skincare products like Emepelle and ZO Prescribed Skincare, professional treatments, or lifestyle adjustments, there are many ways to tackle menopausal acne effectively.
At Facial Aesthetics, we believe in taking a holistic approach—one that treats not only the skin but also the underlying causes of acne and other menopausal symptoms. With the right treatment plan and support, clearer, healthier skin is possible, and you can feel confident in every stage of life.
If you want to read more, the experts at Consulting Room really know what they're talking about and have put together some Menopause FAQs just for you.
If you have more questions, you can use the Menopause questions feature to talk to our panel of trained medical experts.
If you're keen to get started with any of these treatments right away then you're in luck - those clever folks also have a list of trusted, accredited Menopause clinics in your area.
Many thanks to the author of this blog, Julie Scott.
Julie Scott is an NMC registered Independent Nurse Prescriber, Level 7 qualified aesthetic injector and trainer, with over 30 years in plastics and skin rejuvenation she established her practice in Essex in 2003, Facial Aesthetics.
Facial Aesthetics is a boutique clinic set in picturesque surroundings, where they get to know you and your specific lifestyle, skin concerns and expectations. They don’t believe in one size fits all, and treat you as an individual. Their ethos is Aesthetics in Peace and Tranquility.
Call Facial Aesthetics on 07769 692 710 or visit the Facial Aesthetics website.
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