Menopause represents a distinct physiological stage characterized by endocrine changes that significantly influence skin biology. Declining estrogen levels affect epidermal barrier function, extracellular matrix (ECM) maintenance, hydration, inflammatory signalling and oxidative balance, resulting in xerosis, increased sensitivity, impaired barrier function, reduced elasticity and accelerated visible aging. ¹–³
Unlike chronological aging, menopause-associated skin changes are directly linked to hormonal alterations. Estrogen receptors are distributed throughout the epidermis, dermis and hair follicles, where they regulate lipid synthesis, fibroblast activity, collagen production and wound healing. Estrogen receptor β (ERβ) predominates within cutaneous tissues and appears to influence collagen homeostasis, inflammatory regulation and epidermal differentiation.
