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The best menopause skincare products, from hydrating day creams to cooling sprays
Our beauty experts have rounded up the best products for tackling hormonal changes
Tested by Nora Merik and Denny Daily
Hot flushes and brain fog, may grab the headlines when it comes to menopause symptoms, but the natural decrease in oestrogen levels (which typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55) can also lead to changes in our skin, causing everything from dryness and itching to adult acne. That's why the best menopause skincare is developed to help hydrate, clarify and soothe.
While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution – and every person going through menopause will be affected differently – the beauty experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute put some of the leading products designed for menopausal skin to the test with the help of our reader panel, to see if they really delivered on their claims.
The best menopause skincare
These are our top-rated products at a glance, but scroll on for in-depth reviews:
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We tested full skincare ranges and products specifically designed for menopausal women, as well as those developed to alleviate symptoms that are common for those going through menopause.
We asked asked our reader panel – specifically those going through perimenopause and menopause – to trial the products and give us detailed feedback. You'll find our full reviews below, along with a detailed breakdown of how we test and tips from medical director and dermatologist, Dr Stefanie Williams, on how to treat the most common menopausal skincare concerns.
Prai Beauty Menoglow Super Hydrating Sleep Creme
Prai Beauty Menoglow Super Hydrating Sleep Creme
Score: 89/100
If night sweats weren’t unpleasant enough, they can also contribute to overnight moisture loss – this is on top of dryness caused by a weakening of the skin’s natural barrier during menopause – which can leave skin feeling sensitive and dry.
This is why Prai has considered both sleep and skin needs with its MenoGlow collection, a range of products aimed at supporting menopausal skin.
This night cream helps rehydrate and plump skin with the help of hyaluronic acid, while the signature M Complex helps supports collagen production.
Most of our testers agreed their skin felt hydrated when they woke up the next morning after use, with many also praising the cream’s immediate cooling effect. It absorbed quickly too. All testers told us they’d continue using it after the trial period – that’s how you know you’re onto something good.
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50
Score: 87/100
Not only does this best-selling moisturiser leave skin feeling hydrated and supple, but it also contains SPF50 to help prevent sun damage and hyperpigmentation. Other key ingredients include white tea and polypeptide, both of which are rich in polyphenols, antioxidants that protect against free radical damage from exposure to UV light.
Unlike many other SPFs, our testers found this one didn’t leave any white cast or greasiness, praising the easy absorption and saying it kept their skin hydrated throughout the day. They also said it was a great option to wear under makeup.
No7 Menopause Skincare Protect and Hydrate Day Cream 50ml
No7 Menopause Skincare Protect and Hydrate Day Cream 50ml
Score: 86/100
All our testers said they saw an improvement in their skin after using this SPF30 hydrating day cream, telling us they planned to incorporate it into their routine after the trial.
It nourishes without looking greasy and the texture was a real hit with our panel, who said it left skin feeling hydrated and looking glowing, with a slight shimmer. As you would with any SPF, this is best applied in the morning as the final step in your routine before makeup.
Faace Menopause Treatment Mask
Faace Menopause Treatment Mask
Score: 85/100
Made with hydrating and soothing ingredients including hyaluronic acid, pomegranate oil and rosehip oil, this face mask has been developed to support perimenopausal and menopausal skin. It promises to leave your complexion feeling healthy and looking plumper. It also contains rose water and buckthorn, both of which have anti-inflammatory properties, to target any redness or blemishes.
One of our testers enjoyed how versatile the cream was, saying they could “apply a thick layer as a mask for deep moisturising once a week, or apply a thin layer under makeup as a primer.”
Whether used as a primer or mask, most testers reported firmer, more hydrated and smoother skin after use.
Bloom and Blossom Wonder Worker Multi-Tasking Balm
Bloom and Blossom Wonder Worker Multi-Tasking Balm
Score: 84/100
This balm from Bloom and Blossom targets everything from chapped lips to dry skin and hard cuticles, earning it its multitasking title. Thanks to shea butter, which has a high concentration of vitamins and fatty acids, the balm is particularly brilliant for adding extra moisture to the skin.
All testers agreed that it helped soothe cracked lips and dry skin, with one commenting on how it left their skin feeling “smooth, soft and nourished after each use”. As a bonus, the inclusion of lavender oil creates a relaxing aromatherapy experience.
AMELIORATE Transforming Hand Therapy
Score: 83/100
This hand cream from Ameliorate a great rehydrating option to have in your bag. Suitable for menopausal skin, not only does it moisturise, this 5-in-1 cream also claims to exfoliate, renew, soften and protect busy hands.
And it proved effective. All testers said their hands felt immediately hydrated after use, with some adding that it also helped reduce the appearance of age spots. It comes in a handy, small tube, making it a great option for on-the-go TLC. “A little went a long way,” was one tester's verdict. Some did find the cream quite thick, so they preferred to use it at night instead.
Bloom and Blossom Spritzy toes Revitalising Leg & Foot Spray
Bloom and Blossom Spritzy toes Revitalising Leg & Foot Spray
Score: 82/100
The decrease in oestrogen during menopause can have an impact on the body’s fluid regulation system, meaning some people can experience an increase in swelling and water retention. This body spray aims to alleviate these symptoms, working to revive tired and aching legs and feet with the help of vitamin-rich aloe vera leaf juice and energising lime oil.
Its refreshing citrus scent and cooling effect earned this spray extra marks, with most of our panel planning to continue using it after the trial.
Skin Rocks The Support Oil
Skin Rocks The Support Oil
Score: 82/100
After over 20 years working in the skincare industry, Skin Rocks founder and CEO, Caroline Hirons, has a deep understanding of what our skin needs. And her Support Oil features a carefully selected ingredient list to help tackle several symptoms of menopausal skin.
Ideal for massaging into the face, it contains lipid-rich botanicals and oils to support the skin barrier, reduce moisture loss and soothe redness.
Testers liked that it was easy to dispense just the right amount of oil. However, it took a little time to absorb into the skin for some, so it may be another one to add to your evening routine.
No7 Menopause Skincare Collection Nourishing Overnight Cream
No7 Menopause Skincare Collection Nourishing Overnight Cream
Score: 81/100
Let this overnight cream do the hard work while you get your beauty sleep. You’ll wake up with “fresher, hydrated and revitalised skin”, according to one of our testers. It contains a hydrating mix of lipids and ceramides, which work to strengthen the skin’s barrier function, reducing moisture loss and keeping skin hydrated.
Our testers enjoyed the creamy texture of this moisturiser, which made application easy, and didn't leave behind any sticky residue. They also appreciated the cream’s cooling effects – a welcome added bonus.
Trinny London See The Light SPF 50+ Moisturiser
Trinny London See The Light SPF 50+ Moisturiser
Score: 80/100
See The Light, a skincare/SPF 50 hybrid from Trinny London, was three years in the making and it certainly impressed our testers, with everyone agreeing it left their skin feeling softer, more hydrated and smoother after use.
It left no white cast or residue, which makes it a great everyday base for makeup. Some of our panel found the fragrance slightly overpowering, but that will come down to personal preference (we love the fresh scent).
Vichy Neovadiol Multi-Corrective Eye and Lip Care for Menopause
Vichy Neovadiol Multi-Corrective Eye and Lip Care for Menopause
Score: 79/100
This is the first product on our list from the Vichy Neovadiol range, which has been developed to tackle changes to the skin during menopause and beyond. The range offers intense hydration and its eye and lip cream works to reduce the impact of hormonal fluctuations on the delicate skin around our eyes and mouth.
The formula includes key ingredients such as niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, which work to hydrate and minimise fine lines, as well as a caffeine extract to help reduce the look of under-eye circles.
The squeeze top applicator went down well with our testers, with many loving how easy and mess-free it made application. Many found it was quickly absorbed too, with one panellist describing it as “moisturising and soothing to the under-eye, without being greasy or shiny.” Sold.
Vichy Neovadiol Redensifying Plumping Day Cream
Score: 78/100
The Vichy Neovadiol range is another one that's been developed to tackle key menopausal skin concerns. Its plumping day cream is designed to counteract skin sagging and loss of firmness. It contains hyaluronic acid – great for retaining moisture – and cassia seed extract, which works as an anti-inflammatory to reduce redness.
This fast-absorbing cream leaves no greasy or sticky residue, which went down a treat with our panel. In fact, it left one tester’s skin looking so lifted and smooth, their friend thought they'd had a tweakment!
Ameliorate Transforming Body Lotion
Ameliorate Transforming Body Lotion
Score: 77/100
This fragrance-free body lotion was effective at eliminating dryness. It delivered instant moisture and reduced the appearance of “scaly legs” for our testers. This is down to those exfoliating AHAs, which encourage natural skin regeneration.
Our panel praised this fast-acting lotion, with one tester reporting a “noticeable, almost instant, difference to skin texture” after use.
Vichy Neovadiol Peri-Menopause Revitalizing Night Cream 50ml
Vichy Neovadiol Peri-Menopause Revitalizing Night Cream 50ml
Score: 77/100
Those uncomfortable night flushes can leave your skin feeling hot, then dry, which is why Vichy developed this hydrating night cream with cooling properties, to help alleviate discomfort during flushes, and also prevent any dryness afterwards.
Some testers found this one a little too fragranced, which slightly irritated breakout areas, so we suggest opting for something else if you're experiencing any inflammation. However, most were satisfied with how plump and hydrated it left their skin, with the cooling properties earning extra brownie points.
Prai Beauty MenoGlow Collagen Boosting Cremegel Moisturiser
Prai Beauty MenoGlow Collagen Boosting Cremegel Moisturiser
Score: 77/100
Another product from Prai’s Menoglow range, this moisturising cream aims to restore collagen and hydration levels, delivering plump, replenished skin.
The inclusion of aloe vera works to both hydrate and cool the complexion, with all our testers finding this one immediately hydrating. The light gel-like texture also played a part in cooling, but some thought it felt slightly too thin, so you may need to apply a generous layer.
These also passed...
- Silver Pro-Aging Stem Cell Regenerator Serum, £55; Score: 71/100 - Packed with essential oils, this serum can be used as an overnight treatment, or under makeup to nourish throughout the day.
- Balance Me Tripeptide Plumping Cloud Cream, £50; Score: 70/100 – Most of our testers reported immediate hydration and plumper-feeling skin. But some found they needed to reapply the cream later in the day as dryness returned.
- No7 Menopause Skincare Instant Radiance Serum, £31.45; Score: 70/100 - Another collagen and peptide-boosting serum, this product works to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and leave complexions looking radiant.
How we test menopause skincare
We tested skincare ranges and products specifically designed for menopausal women, as well as those developed to alleviate symptoms that are common for those going through perimenopause and menopause.
We recruited a panel of 500 perimenopausal, menopausal and postmenopausal women to trial the products for a minimum of four weeks or longer, depending on the claims. We asked them to provide detailed feedback on each, scoring them for texture, packaging, ease of use and, most importantly, on whether they helped alleviate symptoms. We also asked them whether they would continue to use the product after the trial period and whether they'd recommend it to friends and family.
Once the testing period was complete, our experts collated all the feedback and awarded each product an overall score based on these key criteria.
Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute?
Here at the Good Housekeeping Institute, we’ve been rigorously reviewing products for over 100 years, and our beauty lab puts all the latest beauty launches and tech to the test against its claims, from the best retinol serums to the best LED face masks.
Lifestyle writer, Madeleine Evans, looks out for all the newest innovations in menopause skincare to add to this article, and is passionate about finding the value-for-money beauty buys that will genuinely make a difference.
Denny Daily, our beauty tester, worked with our panel of at-home testers to see how effectively each product helped manage menopausal skincare symptoms. She developed a strict set of protocols to ensure each product was tested thoroughly and fairly against the competition.
How can menopause affect my skin?
As oestrogen levels start to fluctuate during perimenopause (the period when your body naturally starts to transition into menopause), the skin’s natural barrier can be weakened, leading to moisture loss and increased sensitivity.
“The declining levels of female hormones can significantly affect the skin, weakening its barrier function, which leads to increased water evaporation and lower water content in the outermost layer of the skin,” explains Dr Stefanie.
“These changes can also make our complexions more sensitive and prone to irritation. Overall, the skin can become thinner and the oil glands may become less active, all of which may contribute to drier and potentially duller complexions during and after menopause.”
Some of the skincare changes you can experience include:
- Dryness
- A loss of firmness and bounce
- An increase in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Acne and breakouts
- Hyperpigmentation
Studies show that during the first five years of menopause, our skin loses about 30% of its collagen, followed by a further 2% decrease every year as we age. But there are products that can help to boost collagen production as well as reducing the visible effects of collagen loss, such as skin sagging and lines.
There are plenty to choose from in our list, from Skin Rocks The Support Oil, a lipid-rich formula that’s great for replenishing moisture loss, and the Balance Me Tripeptide Cream, which contains a blend of ceramides and hyaluronic acid to help nourish and smooth.
Why does menopause cause breakouts?
Even if you had a lucky escape from spot-prone teenage skin, changes in hormone levels during menopause can mean breakouts of adult acne.
“Among other factors, this is caused by hormonal imbalances, with an increase in the ratio of male to female hormones (i.e. the ratio of androgens like testosterone, compared to female hormones like oestrogen),” says Dr Stefanie. “The female hormones tend to decline quicker than the male hormones in women around menopause, leading to an increase in androgens relative to oestrogen, for instance.”
These shifts stimulate sebum production and acne-causing bacteria, which can cause inflammation. On top of that, factors such as poor sleep and stress during menopause can further exacerbate breakouts.
How to combat key menopausal skin concerns
Dryness
“In cases of real dryness, women may have to move to slightly more hydrating and barrier supporting skincare products,” says Dr Stefanie. “This could mean switching from a lighter moisturiser to one slightly richer in lipids, such as ceramides.”
However, she warns against this if you’re experiencing any breakouts or sensitivity. “This is very important as I see women in the clinic every week who present with adult acne or rosacea caused by using overly rich skincare.”
Breakouts
“For those menopausal women who suffer with breakouts (such as acne or rosacea), it’s best to stick to lightweight skincare products that are low in not only oils and lipids, but also in silicone derivatives such as dimethicone and cyclomethicone. This is because silicone can contribute to dull skin, clogged pores and breakouts."
"Ideally, you should look for products that contain soothing active ingredients and non-oily, water-holding actives such as hyaluronic acid, along with effective firming ingredients, such as retinoids and peptides, because of the dip in collagen and elastin levels around menopause.”
How does menopause affect collagen and elastin levels in the skin?
“Starting in perimenopause, collagen and elastin levels plummet, which can make skin noticeably thinner, more fragile and less firm and elastic, accelerating the development of fine lines and wrinkles,” says Dr Stefanie.
“Not surprisingly then, it has been shown that HRT containing oestrogen can increase skin’s collagen levels and help to slow down further collagen loss.”
Read our menopause guide for more information on the benefits of HRT and alternatives if you’re unable to take it or choose not to.
The verdict on the best menopause skincare
Our winning night cream, Prai Beauty’s MenoGlow Super Hydrating Sleep Creme, is the perfect antidote to dry skin caused by a decrease in oestrogen, thanks to its ultra hydrating ingredients, which work while you sleep. As a part of the brand’s MenoGlow range, it’s specially formulated for menopausal skin.
Evening hot flushes can make your skin extra dry at night time, so Boots' Nourishing Overnight Cream is the perfect solution for an extra dose of hydration, that still feels lightweight on skin.
Lips and hands need some TLC too. So, treat them with Bloom & Blossom’s Wonder Worker Multi-Tasking Balm, a shea butter-enriched formula that’s great for popping in your handbag and moisturising on the move.
Madeleine is our Lifestyle Writer, specialising in expert-tested reviews and round-ups on the latest beauty Beauty and Health & Wellness products. From skincare to protein powders, Maddie is committed to providing honest and helpful reviews to help guide readers to the best product for them. Maddie has a BA in English Literature and Language, which stemmed from her lifelong interest in reading and writing. She started her post graduate life at Hearst UK within a marketing capacity, which quickly turned into a desire to fulfil a writing career.
When she is not writing about the latest expert reviewed products, you can find her rifling through vintage shops or car boots, reading a print magazine, or capturing portraits on her film camera.
Denny our Former Beauty and Grooming Tester has an in-depth knowledge and background in beauty and PR. She has spoken on panels with Cosmetics Executive Women (CEW) and has worked with many beauty brands as a commercial model. Since joining in October 2022, she has worked on numerous testing categories including over 18 different brands for vitamin C serums, scalp scrubs, shampoos for dry hair and many more. She has over 20k followers on TikTok where she shares beauty and fashion tips otherwise better known as Denny Daily.
