Global survey of 4,300 women reveals menopause skin changes, wellbeing impact and treatment gaps
A global survey of more than 4,300 peri- and post-menopausal women across nine countries has revealed that menopause can trigger multiple skin changes, yet awareness of these changes remains limited. The survey findings were presented by pharmaceutical company Galderma at the International Master Course on Aging Science (IMCAS) 2026 in Paris.
Menopause triggers multiple skin changes, global survey finds
According to the survey, women experienced an average of three skin changes during menopause, most commonly lines and wrinkles, loss of firmness and elasticity, dryness, and a duller skin tone. On average, these changes were rated six out of 10 in severity, highlighting their impact on overall appearance.
The study also found that menopause-related skin changes can affect emotional wellbeing, with women reporting feeling less attractive (60%), anxious (57%), less confident (55%), and less social (46%).
Knowledge gap leaves women learning about skin changes late
The survey highlighted a significant knowledge gap: over 50% of women only learned about menopause-related skin changes as they experienced them, most often in their 40s. Meanwhile, 30% would have liked to know about them in their 30s, and more than half reported being neutral or dissatisfied with their knowledge on the subject.
This lack of awareness has also affected preventative action, with most women currently using aesthetic treatments to address changes after they occur, rather than prevent them.
