The Skin Barrier and Menopause

by Hale & Hush 

Menopause marks a significant transition, bringing with it a host of physiological changes that profoundly impact the skin. The decline in estrogen and progesterone levels plays a pivotal role in altering skin texture, appearance, and overall health.  

In the beginning stages of menopause, the decrease in estrogen levels has a notable effect on the skin’s barrier function. Estrogen helps the skin retain moisture. Its decline during menopause often leads to increased dryness and sensitivity, leaving the skin more susceptible to irritation. This hormonal shift can exacerbate existing skin conditions or make the skin more reactive to products previously used without issue.  

One of the most significant changes during menopause is the drastic reduction in collagen production, with research showing up to a 30 percent decrease in collagen levels during the first five years.¹ Collagen is essential for skin elasticity and firmness, and its reduction contributes to the development of sagging, wrinkles, and a loss of structural support. As estrogen and progesterone levels drop, the skin also becomes thinner, making it more prone to damage and bruising. This thinning effect is particularly evident in areas where the skin is already delicate, such as around the eyes and mouth. 

Sun exposure, accumulated over a lifetime, compounds the effects of hormonal changes during menopause. The combination of reduced collagen and increased sun exposure often leads to more pronounced age spots and hyperpigmentation. These discolorations become more noticeable and can affect the overall evenness of the skin tone. 

Menopause can trigger hormonal acne. As estrogen levels decrease, androgens—another group of hormones—may not decrease proportionately. This imbalance can lead to increased sebum production, which clogs pores and contributes to the formation of acne and cysts. 

Professional Treatment Option 

The Nutrition Boost Treatment from Hale & Hush addresses these menopausal skin concerns by targeting the skin’s barrier function and hydration levels. This facial treatment is designed to deeply exfoliate and revitalize the skin, addressing dryness, dullness, and rough texture. By enhancing the skin’s barrier function, the facial helps lock in moisture, improving overall hydration and reducing visible fine lines and wrinkles. 

This treatment incorporates nutrients and ingredients that support collagen synthesis and skin repair. These ingredients work to rejuvenate the skin, improving its texture and tone while also promoting faster healing and repair. The facial also helps alleviate some of the dryness and irritation that can be exacerbated by hormonal changes, offering soothing and calming benefits for sensitive skin. By restoring balance and strengthening the skin’s protective barrier, this treatment helps mitigate the risk of irritation and rashes, which can be particularly problematic for those with pre-existing skin conditions like rosacea or eczema. 

Suggesting Home Care 

Incorporating active ingredients in home care is essential for addressing menopausal skin changes. Some of the best ingredients you can recommend when helping clients build at-home routines are 

• growth-factor serums—support cellular repair and rejuvenation;  
• hyaluronic acid—retains moisture and deeply hydrates, helping skin look plump and smooth;  
• peptides—boost collagen production and skin elasticity; 
• retinals—enhance cell turnover, smoothing texture and reducing the visibility of fine lines;  
• vitamin C and mandelic acid—brighten the skin, retexturize it, and diminish pigmentation.  

Together, these ingredients enhance the professional facial’s effectiveness, promoting a more youthful, vibrant, and hydrated complexion. 

Supporting Resilient Skin 

While the process of aging can’t be halted, the Hale & Hush Nutritional Boost Facial offers a proactive approach to managing menopausal skin changes. By adapting both professional and at-home skin care routines to address the specific needs of menopausal skin, your clients can effectively minimize the visible effects of aging and maintain healthier, more resilient skin throughout this significant life stage.  

Hale & Hush 

Nutrition Boost Treatment Protocol 

Step 1  

Pre-cleanse by applying ½–1 pump of Quiet Wash and emulsifying with tepid water. Rinse thoroughly. Cleanse again with ½–1 pump of Quiet Wash, using cleansing brushes and water to emulsify. Rinse thoroughly. 

Step 2  

Exfoliate with 1 teaspoon of Incredible Enzymes on the face and neck. Massage it in gentle, circular motions for 3–5 minutes and rinse well with a warm towel. If necessary, perform an additional cleanse with Quiet Wash. 

Step 3  

Nourish the skin on the face and neck with 2–3 pumps of Rare C Serum and Rare Mandelic Serum. Use suggested modalities for product penetration at this time. LED and infusion devices are highly recommended after serum application.  

Step 4  

Apply 1 tablespoon of Berry Boost Mask with a mask brush and leave it on for 5–10 minutes. Remove the mask with a warm or tepid towel. Massage or holistic treatments can be performed at this time. 

Step 5  

Apply 4–6 drops of Remedy Rehab Oil to the face and neck. Enhance the eye area with ¼ pump of Eye Mousse and hydrate the face and neck with 2–3 pumps of Saffron Meristem Cream.  

Step 6  

Protect the face and neck with two pumps of Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 by patting in the product. 

Step 7  

Treat the skin by applying Relief Bio Powder with a powder brush to areas of the skin that may still be red from the treatment. Blend well. Finish with ¼ pump of Brilliant Eye & Lip Serum on the lips. 

Modality Suggestions 

The use of product penetration devices would be beneficial during this treatment protocol (LED, nano infusion, stamping, microcurrent, ultrasound, etc.). Lymphatic drainage techniques that use holistic tools such as a facial roller or cold globes/wands would also elevate the treatment. 

Suggested Home Care  

• Rare C Serum 
• Rare Mandelic Serum 
• Rare Retinal Serum 
• Refine Polish 
• Remedy Rehab Oil 
• Microcurrent home device, such as the Zaq Zayn Skin Care Wand 

Note 

American Academy of Dermatology Association, “Caring for Your Skin in Menopause,” last modified November 20, 2023, aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/anti-aging/skin-care-during-menopause.