Menopauseitself doesn’t cause a rash.
However, it creates a decline in estrogen, which can lead to dry, itchy skin.
Menopause is reached when you have had 12 consecutive months without a menstrual cycle.
Tharakorn Arunothai / EyeEm/ Getty Images
Tharakorn Arunothai / EyeEm/ Getty Images
Estrogen and Skin Health
Estrogenis vital to healthy skin.
It stimulates the production of substances such as oil and collagen, which keep skin hydrated and supple.
As you start to approach menopause, estrogen levels begin dropping.
Menopause can leave the skin more sensitive, easily irritated, and prone to rashes.
You’re more likely to develop various types of rashes and skin conditions.
It usually starts in childhood, but you’re free to get it at any age.
Contact Dermatitis
Symptoms ofcontact dermatitisinclude itching, burning, and blistering.
Lichen Planus
Lichen planusis a condition involving swelling and irritation of the skin.
Other symptoms may include bumps, blisters, and scales.
It can also affect the mouth, nails, and scalp.
Psoriasis can also affect the fingernails, toenails, and mouth.
Rosacea
Rosaceais a chronic inflammatory skin condition.
Symptoms include redness, rash, and visible blood vessels, typically on the cheeks and nose.
Anyone can get rosacea, but it’s more common among middle-aged and older adults.
Shingles
Shinglesis a painful rash that usually develops on one side of the face or body.
This may include blisters that eventually scab over.
Once you recover from chicken pox, the virus remains dormant indefinitely.
Shingles occur when the virus gets reactivated later in life.
Adults 50 years and older should get two doses of the shingles vaccine to prevent shingles and shingles complications.
It can also make you itch.
Unfortunately, scratching can cause you to be even itchier.
Menopause can also lead toitchy breastsandvaginal itching.
Age spots are flat, painless, and harmless to your health.
Nutrition
Nutrition is key.
They happen because the balance of hormones in your body changes.
As the skin becomes thinner and drier, it becomes more vulnerable to damage and various skin conditions.
Some skin conditions aren’t curable, but home remedies and medical treatments may offer some relief.
A Word From Verywell
Menopause is a time of significant physical and emotional change.
It’s a perfectly natural transition but often shrouded in mystery.
Get the answers and the help you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Skin in menopause looks drier, thinner, and less firm than before menopause.
Some people develop dark spots, rough patches, or rashes.
Dry skin and itching are common with menopause.
And any preexisting skin conditions may flare up as your hormone levels change.
Keep your skin well hydrated, protect it from sun exposure, and avoid scratching.
If you have a condition that affects the skin, stick to your treatment plan.
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When to seek medical treatment.
