How to Have Great Skin Menopause Age for Women

Learn how to keep hormonal changes from wreaking havoc on your complexion

1. Look Your Best
Did you know that during this time you lose up to 30% of your collagen, which is what helps skin stay firm. Experts share how to stave off these effects, and we share four amazing products that will help.

2. Upgrade Your Moisturizer
The face lotion you've used for years may not be hydrating enough anymore. The reason: Oil production slows during menopause, causing skin to thin and become prone to dryness. To make it more supple, switch to a cream with concentrated moisturizing ingredients (like shea butter and glycerin), such as Physicians Formula Hormonal Aging Menopause Ultra Rich Restoring Day & Night Cream for Intense Dryness ($21.95; at Amazon.com). Apply it when skin is slightly damp to trap even more hydration.

3. Treat Blemishes
Zits—again?! Unfortunately, yes. Hormonal fluctuations can lead to breakouts along your mouth, jaw and chin. But despite these pimples, your skin may actually be parched. Skip harsh astringents formulated for teen acne, and try a gentle facial cleanser with glycolic acid at night, like Nuance Salma Hayek Age Affirm Glycolic Cream Cleanser ($31.95; Amazon.com), to get rid of pore-clogging dirt and oil without stripping skin of moisture.

4. Soothe Flushed Skin
Hot flashes are common for most women during menopause. They occur when blood vessels near the skin's surface dilate to regulate your body temperature, which causes your face to become red and perspire. For a quick fix, tote a refreshing vitamin C–enriched elixir, such as The Body Shop Vitamin C Energizing Face Spritz ($18; Amazon.com), and spray as needed. Bonus: Vitamin C boosts collagen production and protects skin from environmental agers like pollution.

5. Erase Age Spots
Estrogen regulates the production of melanin (the pigment in your skin), so when it decreases, brown spots—caused by exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays—can start to pop up along your face, neck, chest and hands. Even out your complexion by using a serum, like L'Oréal Youth Code Dark Spot Correcting & Illuminating Serum Corrector ($19.99; Amazon.com), under your moisturizer every day or night. Its niacinamide (or vitamin B3) wipes out discoloration and improves skin's tone and texture.

SOURCES: Diane Berson, MD, New York City dermatologist. Rebecca C. Brightman, MD, assistant clinical professor of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive sciences, Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Michael Shapiro, MD, New York City dermatologist and medical director, Vanguard Dermatology.