If your skin feels less firm, looks looser or isn’t bouncing back the way it used to, you’re not imagining it. During the stages of menopause, declining estrogen levels, along with fluctuations in progesterone, can have a direct impact on the skin’s structure.
Estrogen plays a critical role in helping to stimulate fibroblasts to produce collagen (types I and III) and elastin – a.k.a the proteins that give skin its strength, lift and bounce.
“When estrogen declines, collagen production slows and existing elastin fibers degrade,” says Beth Bialko, esthetician and Bioelements Senior Director of Education. “Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), like hyaluronic acid, also decrease, which means the dermal matrix (your skin’s support network) becomes less dense and resilient. The result? Sagging, fine lines and loss of firmness.”
But collagen loss isn’t inevitable without intervention. Here are five ways to help boost firmness and elasticity.
1. Make peptides your new best friend
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that signal your skin to produce more collagen and elastin – exactly what estrogen decline is slowing down.
“Trifluoroacetyl tripeptide (an advanced peptide complex) and sr-hydrozoan polypeptide-1 (a bioidentical, vegan marine collagen peptide) are especially effective for menopausal skin,” recommends Bialko. “Look for a peptide serum like Peptide Architect.”
2. Incorporate vitamin C daily
Your skin can’t synthesize collagen without vitamin C. It also shields existing collagen from oxidative damage triggered by UV and pollution. Choose a stable, high-potency form and apply each morning under SPF.
3. Don’t skip SPF
UV exposure can accelerate collagen breakdown, and with estrogen decline already reducing collagen density, protection is non-negotiable. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ (or higher) daily, rain or shine.
4. Book professional treatments strategically
Treatments like professional facials, peels or light therapy help counteract the thinning and sagging caused by estrogen decline. These approaches help counteract the thinning and sagging caused by estrogen decline. Work with your esthetician or dermatologist to create a plan that supports your skin’s tolerance and recovery needs.
5. Hydrate and strengthen your skin barrier
“Estrogen decline also reduces natural lipid production, compromising your barrier and increasing transepidermal water loss (TEWL),” explains Bialko. “Without a strong barrier, collagen-supporting actives won’t work as effectively.”
Use moisturizers and hydrating hyaluronic acid serums like Iconic Hyaluronic to lock in moisture.
