As women approach midlife, they often experience a variety of changes in their bodies. Two significant phases during this time are perimenopause and menopause. These stages can bring about numerous symptoms, including changes to the skin.

But can menopause & perimenopause cause skin rashes? Let’s discuss this topic and explore the connection between these life stages and skin health.

Definition of menopause and perimenopause

Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause. It typically starts in a woman’s 40s but can begin in the 30s or earlier. During this time, the body starts to produce less estrogen, leading to various symptoms.

Menopause is officially diagnosed when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. This usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55.

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Can Menopause Cause Rashes?

Menopause is a significant life transition that impacts various aspects of a woman’s body and mind. From brain function and mood to body composition and hair, the hormonal shifts experienced during perimenopause and menopause can lead to numerous changes. Unfortunately, your skin is not immune to these alterations.

Research indicates that over 64% of women report skin problems during this transitional time. These changes can manifest as shifts in skin elasticity, and texture, and even an increase in sensitivity, potentially contributing to more frequent irritation and rashes.

Dr. Maria Knobel

Dr. Maria Knobel, MD

Dr. Maria Knobel is the Medical Director at Medical Cert UK and an internationally certified GP in Lifestyle Medicine. She has authored medical texts and lectured globally, with expertise in Sports Medicine and Menopause care. She explains that itchy skin and rashes are common but often overlooked symptoms of perimenopause. She highlights that these symptoms primarily stem from fluctuating estrogen levels. Estrogen helps keep the skin hydrated and elastic, so when its levels drop, the skin may become dry and less supple, leading to increased irritation, itchiness, and potentially severe conditions like pruritus.

The Connection Between Hormones and Skin Health

Role of hormones in skin health

During menopause, your body begins to produce less estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. This hormonal shift, coupled with an increase in cortisol, can significantly impact skin health.

How changing hormones affect the skin

These hormonal changes can cause various skin irritations such as Rashes, Hives, Acne, Changes in skin color, texture, or smoothness

Common Skin Issues During Menopause

Perimenopause skin spots Perimenopause skin spots

Flushing or Rosacea

Can menopause cause skin itching? Yes, and it can also cause flushing. Hot flashes during menopause may lead to redness of the face, neck, and chest, known as “skin flushing.” This symptom typically lasts between one to five minutes.

Women with rosacea may notice their condition worsening during menopause. Rosacea involves overactive blood vessels leading to skin redness.

Melasma

Some women may experience melasma during menopause due to hormonal changes and sun exposure. Melasma causes darkened patches of skin pigmentation or “freckle-like” spots on areas like the cheeks, upper lip, or forehead.

Red Bumps, Eczema, or Hives

Decreasing estrogen and shifting skin pH levels can increase skin sensitivity. This may cause Hives: Itchy, painful welts resulting from allergen exposure, Contact dermatitis: An itchy, bumpy allergic rash from exposure to certain substances or metals, and Atopic dermatitis (eczema): Red, itchy, sometimes painful patches on the body after exposure to irritants.

Itchy Skin

Can perimenopause cause itchy skin? Absolutely. The significant drop in estrogen often leads to less collagen and natural oil production, resulting in dry, itchy skin on any part of the body. For tips on alleviating these issues, check out our Menopause Dry Skin article.

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Underlying Causes of Skin Rashes in Menopause

Hormonal imbalances

As mentioned earlier, the decrease in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, along with increased cortisol, can lead to various skin issues.

Shifting pH of Skin

Around age 50, the pH level of our skin changes. This shift can make the skin more sensitive and prone to rashes and irritation. It may also temporarily worsen pre-existing conditions like rosacea.

Other Common Skin Changes During Menopause

In addition to rashes and irritation, menopause may lead to:

  • Wrinkles and fine lines
  • Loss of skin elasticity
  • Dryness and flakiness
  • Thinning of the skin
  • Acne breakouts
  • Age spots or hyperpigmentation

Treatment Options for Menopausal Skin Rashes

Moisturizing

Use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizers to combat dry, itchy skin. Sun protection: Apply daily sunscreen to prevent and manage conditions like melasma. Topical medications: Prescribed creams or gels can help manage conditions like rosacea.

Oral medications

In some cases, oral medications may be necessary to address certain skin conditions. Lifestyle changes: Avoiding trigger foods and beverages (like spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine) can help manage symptoms of conditions like rosacea.

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When to Seek Medical Help

While most skin rashes during menopause are not medical emergencies, you should consult a healthcare provider if your skin condition is accompanied by:

Trouble breathing

  • A rash covering most of your body

Fever or illness

  • A rash with blisters or open sores
  • A rash involving the lips, mouth, eyes, or genital skin
  • A note on autoimmune diseases

Some skin rashes may be a symptom of a developing autoimmune disease, such as lupus. The average age of onset for several autoimmune diseases aligns with the average age of menopause. If you have persistent skin issues or unusual symptoms, consult a healthcare provider.

Conclusion

We’ve explored how menopause and perimenopause can indeed cause skin rashes and other skin issues. These changes are primarily driven by hormonal shifts, particularly the decline in estrogen. While these skin changes can be challenging, there are many ways to manage and treat them.

Message for women experiencing menopausal skin changes

Remember, these skin changes are a normal part of the menopausal transition. With the right care and treatment, you can maintain healthy, comfortable skin during this time. Don’t hesitate to seek help from healthcare providers, and be patient and kind to yourself as your body goes through these changes.

How to stop perimenopause itching and manage other skin issues often involves a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle changes, and self-care. By understanding the perimenopause skin conditions you’re experiencing and taking proactive steps to address them, you can navigate this transition with confidence and comfort.