Navigating Skin Changes During Perimenopause and Menopause and How Nature Can Help

As women transition through perimenopause and menopause, our skin often becomes a mirror of the hormonal shifts happening within. From sudden dryness and sensitivity to hormonal breakouts and thinning skin, it can feel like you're navigating unfamiliar territory.

At nood mood, we believe this stage of life deserves to be met with gentle, supportive care and that natural, plant-based ingredients can offer exactly that. 

So, what are the skin changes many women experience during perimenopause and menopause and what are some of the amazing botanical ingredients that can help restore glow, balance and comfort? We offer a couple of easy DIY formulas you can try at home, or even gift a friend going through the same journey. 

Skin During Perimenopause & Menopause: What’s Really Going On?

Hormonal changes, particularly the decline in estrogen, have a direct impact on the skin’s structure and function. Common symptoms include:

🌿 Dryness & Tightness

Lower oestrogen levels mean less oil production and a drop in natural hyaluronic acid. The skin can feel dry, itchy, and tight, even if you’ve never experienced dryness before.

🌿 Thinning & Loss of Elasticity

Collagen and elastin production decrease dramatically, leading to sagging, fine lines, and a loss of plumpness. Studies suggest women can lose up to 30% of their skin’s collagen in the first five years after menopause.

🌿 Sensitivity & Redness

Your skin barrier may become more fragile, reacting to products that previously felt fine. Inflammation can flare, especially if you’re prone to rosacea or eczema.

🌿 Hormonal Breakouts

Surprisingly, hormonal acne can surface or return, even in midlife, thanks to shifts in testosterone and progesterone balance.

Nature’s Answer: Ingredients That Genuinely Help

Rather than overwhelming your skin with synthetic actives, nature offers a kind and effective approach to caring for menopausal and perimenopausal skin. Here are some of the best natural ingredients to look for (or make at home with our DIY Skincare Kits):

💧 Hydrators & Barrier Supporters

• Hyaluronic Acid – A magnet for moisture that plumps and softens.
• Glycerin – A plant-based humectant that attracts and retains water.
• Squalane – A skin-identical lipid that restores suppleness without greasiness.

🌸 Soothing & Anti-Inflammatory Botanicals

• Aloe Vera – Calms irritation and adds moisture.
• Oat Extract or Colloidal Oatmeal – Relieves itching and inflammation.
• Chamomile – Naturally calming and supportive for sensitive skin.

🌱 Plant-Based Retinol Alternatives

• Bakuchiol – A gentle botanical alternative to retinol that supports collagen production without the dryness or sensitivity.
• Niacinamide – Helps improve elasticity and reduce redness.

🌿 Antioxidant Powerhouses

• Vitamin C – Brightens skin tone and helps with sun spots.
• Green Tea Extract – Anti-inflammatory and helps counteract oxidative stress.
• CoQ10 & Sea Buckthorn – Great for supporting aging skin and radiance.

DIY Recipes for Midlife Skin (Gentle & Effective)

You can create beautiful, nourishing skincare at home with simple ingredients—and it’s one of the reasons our DIY Skincare Kits are so popular! Below are two formulations you can try:

✨ Hydrating & Firming Serum (Pregnancy + Menopause Safe)

A light, gel-like serum that hydrates and soothes while supporting elasticity.

Ingredients (by weight):

• 80% Aloe Vera Juice (or Distillate)
• 5% Glycerin
• 3% Sodium Hyaluronate (HMW, pre-hydrated in glycerin)
• 5% Niacinamide
• 3% Panthenol (Vitamin B5)
• 1% Preservative (e.g., Geogard ECT)
• 1% Lavender or Frankincense Hydrosol or Essential Oil (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine aloe juice, glycerin, niacinamide, and panthenol in a clean container.
2. Add the pre-dissolved hyaluronic acid.
3. Stir in preservative and essential oil (if using).
4. Bottle in a dropper or serum bottle and store in a cool, dry place. Use daily after cleansing.

💡 Want to try this at home? Our DIY Aloe Vera and Green Tea Face Serum with Hyaluronic Acid makes it easy. Everything is included and ready to blend. 

🧴 Rich Night Cream for Mature Skin

This moisturiser supports elasticity and hydration using rich oils and natural butters.

Ingredients (by weight):

Oil Phase

• 8% Avocado Oil
• 6% Squalane
• 4% Shea Butter
• 5% Emulsifying Wax (e.g. Olivem 1000 or Polawax)

Water Phase

• 65% Distilled Water or Aloe Vera Juice
• 2% Glycerin

Cool Down Phase

• 3% Panthenol (Vitamin B5)
• 2% Green Tea Extract
• 1% Preservative (e.g., Geogard ECT)
• 1% Vitamin E
• 1% Essential Oils (Lavender, Geranium, or Frankincense)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil and water phases separately to 70°C.
2. Combine and blend using a stick blender until thickened.
3. Once below 40°C, stir in the cool down phase.
4. Store in a sterilised jar. Use nightly.

✨ Our DIY Chamomile and Squalane Night Cream Kit comes with everything you need. It includes step-by-step instructions, making it perfect for beginners or thoughtful gifting.

Skincare That Listens to You

No two skin journeys are the same and that’s especially true during perimenopause and menopause. What matters most is being kind to yourself and your skin, choosing ingredients that support rather than fight your body’s natural changes.

Whether you're ready to dive into DIY skincare or want to better understand what your skin needs right now, we’re here to support you at nood mood. Our kits, blog, and workshops are created with care, so you can enjoy the process of reconnecting with your skin, naturally.

🛍 Ready to explore?
Check out our DIY Skincare Kits – designed for simplicity, sustainability, and joy. They're perfect for self-care, gift-giving, or your next girls’ night in.