Can Perimenopause Contribute to Eczema Flares?
If you’ve noticed your skin changing during perimenopause and menopause, then you’re not alone. Falling levels of the hormones estrogen, progesterone and testosterone can mean your skin is less able to retain moisture, leading to skin that is drier and flakier.
But if you already have a dry skin condition such as eczema, you may find your skin becomes particularly dry and more irritated as your hormones change and reduce during perimenopause and menopause.
While some people may experience eczema for the first time during perimenopause or menopause, people who already have eczema may notice that their symptoms flare up during this time. In fact, eczema can return during menopause, even after years of remission.
Estrogen is one of the most important hormones for maintaining the skin’s moisture. It promotes the skin’s natural production of sebum, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and other oils. As production of these substances naturally decreases, the skin is less able to retain moisture. As a result, a person may experience skin dryness, irritation, and possibly eczema flares.
Common eczema symptoms during perimenopause
Some perimenopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, may cause a person to sweat more, potentially leading to new or more frequent eczema flares.
Common Eczema Symptoms may include:
- sensitive, itchy, and dry skin
- skin swelling and redness or other discoloration
- rough, scaly skin patches
- skin crusting or oozing
How to manage eczema symptoms during perimenopause
Here are some ways a person can manage their eczema symptoms during perimenopause:
- Maintain a gentle skin care routine
- Moisturize the skin
- Use lubricant to address vaginal dryness
- Try to stay cool
- Eat a balanced diet
- Prioritize sleep
- Try to reduce stress
Stress can trigger or worsen eczema flares. According to a 2025 research review, people with eczema may have as much as a three times greater risk of depression and anxiety than those without eczema. These conditions can further contribute to stress.
Activities such as meditating, exercising, or taking part in an eczema support group may help people manage stress.
When to talk with a doctor about eczema and perimenopause
If a person is experiencing an eczema flare, they should contact their doctor as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of a person’s eczema, a doctor may recommend topical steroids or other medications.
A person can ask also their primary care doctor for a referral to see a dermatologist, who can offer a more varied treatment course.
My Takeaway
During perimenopause, estrogen and collagen levels can begin to drop, causing skin changes such as dryness. These changes may trigger or worsen eczema symptoms.
Habits such as maintaining a gentle skin care routine, managing stress levels, and getting enough sleep can help a person manage eczema flares.
Someone who is experiencing severe or worsening eczema should contact a doctor as soon as possible to get appropriate treatment.
MBH/PS