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Menopause and mature skin: what really helps against dryness, sagging and spots?

Menopause and mature skin: what really helps against dryness, sagging and spots?

In short: menopause changes the skin, not only the calendar. As oestrogen falls, skin loses collagen, moisture and elasticity, so many women notice dryness, sagging along the jawline, finer and more fragile skin, more visible spots and slower healing in their late forties and fifties. Hormone therapy can help menopausal symptoms, but current guidelines do not recommend it for the skin alone, and a large randomised trial of low-dose hormone therapy found no significant effect on facial skin ageing. What works best is a combination: daily sun protection, a prescription retinoid or another proven active, a gentle routine that repairs the skin barrier, and, if you wish, medical treatments such as biostimulators, skin boosters, lasers or radiofrequency to restore firmness and even out the complexion. This guide explains what happens to the skin at menopause, what the evidence says about each option, how to deal with spots and melasma, which changes need a doctor’s check, and how to plan treatments from Switzerland.

This article is general information. It does not replace a consultation or medical advice from a qualified doctor or dermatologist.

For the technologies themselves, see our guide to lasers, peels, HIFU and microneedling, and for fillers and toxin, our guide to facial injections. If you are considering surgery, read our guide to cosmetic surgery after 50. This article focuses on the skin at and after menopause.

Contents

What happens to the skin at menopause?

Skin is a hormone-sensitive organ. Oestrogen supports collagen production, skin thickness, hydration and the function of the skin barrier. When oestrogen levels fall during perimenopause and after the last period, these functions decline, and the change can feel rapid.

How much collagen is lost?

Studies based on skin biopsies show a clear decline. A Barcelona study published in Maturitas in 1992 measured skin collagen in women of different ages and in postmenopausal women; collagen content decreased significantly with age beyond the forties and after menopause, and the decrease was prevented in women taking hormone replacement therapy. A British study by Brincat and colleagues, published in 1987, found that thigh skin collagen fell with the years since menopause in untreated women, while it was preserved in women receiving hormone implants. These studies are old and small, but they consistently show that menopause accelerates collagen loss.

Is it only hormones?

No. By the time of menopause, most women also carry decades of sun exposure, which is the main external cause of skin ageing. Smoking, pollution, stress, sleep, nutrition and genetics also play a role. Menopause adds to these factors, which is why women with very different lifestyles experience it so differently on their skin.

When do the changes start?

Often during perimenopause, the years of irregular cycles before the last period, and they continue in the first years after menopause. Many women notice that their usual skincare suddenly no longer suits them: creams feel insufficient, skin reacts more easily, and make-up sits differently.

The main signs and what causes them

Understanding the cause of each sign helps you choose the right treatment instead of buying products at random.

Sign Main cause What helps most
Dryness, tightness, itching Weaker skin barrier, less sebum and moisture Gentle cleansing, barrier-repair moisturiser, avoiding irritants
Fine lines and crepey texture Collagen and elastin loss, sun damage Sun protection, retinoids, lasers, peels, skin boosters
Sagging along the jawline and neck Loss of collagen and support, volume loss Biostimulators, radiofrequency or ultrasound, surgery for marked laxity
Age spots and uneven tone Cumulative sun exposure Sun protection, retinoids, lasers or intense pulsed light
Melasma Hormones, sun and visible light, genetics Strict photoprotection, topical treatments, cautious procedures
Redness and sensitivity Thinner, more reactive skin; rosacea Gentle routine, medical treatment of rosacea, vascular laser
Slow healing, easy bruising Thinner skin, fragile vessels Protecting the skin, treating dryness, caution with procedures
Adult acne or unwanted facial hair Relative increase in androgen effects Medical assessment and targeted treatment

Why does my face look less firm even though I have not gained weight?

Because firmness depends on collagen and on the deeper volumes of the face. As both decline, the skin drapes differently over the bone and fat, and the jawline softens. Weight changes during menopause, which are common, can add to this effect, particularly when fat moves from the face to the abdomen.

Can I have acne and dry skin at the same time?

Yes, and it is a frequent source of confusion during perimenopause. Hormonal fluctuations can cause spots along the jawline and chin while the rest of the face feels dry and tight. Harsh anti-acne products then worsen the dryness. A doctor can propose treatments that address the spots without stripping the skin, and a gentle moisturiser remains necessary.

Why does my skin react to products I have used for years?

Because the skin barrier is weaker and lets irritants penetrate more easily. Fragrances, alcohol-based toners, strong exfoliants and some essential oils are frequent culprits. Simplifying your routine often helps more than adding products.

Does hormone therapy help the skin?

This is one of the most frequent questions. The honest answer is: it may help somewhat, but it should not be taken for the skin alone.

What does the evidence show?

Observational studies and small trials have reported positive associations between hormone therapy and skin thickness, collagen and hydration. However, the largest randomised trial on the face, published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology in 2008, enrolled 485 postmenopausal women for 48 weeks and compared two low-dose combined hormone treatments with a placebo. It found no statistically significant improvement in facial wrinkling, sagging or skin texture compared with placebo. The authors noted that the women were on average five years past menopause and that higher doses, longer treatment or treatment started earlier could not be assessed.

What do recent reviews conclude?

A narrative review published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology in 2025 reported that most studies found positive associations between hormone therapy and menopausal skin, but with inconsistent findings, and that, despite decades of research, clinical guidelines do not support using hormone therapy solely for oestrogen-deficient skin because of the lack of robust skin-specific trials. The review also noted that many women are unaware of the skin effects of menopause.

So what should I do?

Discuss hormone therapy with your gynaecologist or GP for the reasons it is usually prescribed, such as hot flushes, sleep problems or vaginal dryness, taking your personal risks into account. If you take it, any skin benefit is a bonus. For the skin itself, rely on the measures with stronger evidence described below.

Are topical oestrogen creams for the face an option?

Some small studies have looked at topical oestrogens on facial skin, but they are not a standard treatment, and any hormone product must be prescribed and supervised by a doctor. Vaginal oestrogen, on the other hand, is a well-established treatment for vaginal dryness, discussed later.

Sun protection: the most effective anti-ageing step

If you do only one thing for your skin, protect it from the sun every day. It slows further ageing, reduces spots and lowers the risk of skin cancer.

Is there proof that sunscreen slows skin ageing?

Yes, from a randomised trial. In Nambour, Australia, 903 adults under 55 were randomly assigned to daily or discretionary use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Published in the Annals of Internal Medicine in 2013, the study found that the daily sunscreen group showed no detectable increase in skin ageing after 4.5 years, and that skin ageing was 24% less than in the discretionary group. It is one of the few anti-ageing measures tested in a large randomised trial.

Is sun protection relevant in Switzerland?

Very much so. Ultraviolet radiation increases with altitude, and snow reflects a large part of it, so skiing, hiking and lake days all add up. A Swiss study published in Frontiers in Oncology in 2023, carried out in a high-risk population for melanoma, found that an age of 50 or more was a significant risk factor for melanoma development in that cohort, and that taking part in the study improved sun protection behaviour. Sun protection after 50 protects your health as well as your appearance.

How should I use sunscreen?

  • Choose a broad-spectrum product with high protection, in a texture you will actually use every day.
  • Apply it generously to the face, neck, ears and the back of the hands every morning.
  • Reapply when you are outdoors for long periods, after swimming or sweating.
  • Add a hat and sunglasses, and seek shade in the middle of the day.
  • If you have melasma, tinted sunscreens containing iron oxides also protect against visible light, which can worsen pigmentation.

A skincare routine for mature skin

A good routine for mature skin is short, consistent and gentle. It does not need ten steps or expensive brands.

Step Morning Evening
Cleanse Lukewarm water or a mild, non-foaming cleanser Gentle cleanser to remove sunscreen and make-up
Treat An antioxidant serum such as vitamin C, if tolerated A retinoid, a few evenings a week at first, then more often
Moisturise A moisturiser with barrier-repair ingredients (ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid) A richer cream, especially in winter
Protect Broad-spectrum sunscreen every day Not needed

Which ingredients are worth looking for?

  • Retinoids: the best-studied actives for photoageing (see below).
  • Humectants such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid, which attract water.
  • Ceramides and fatty acids, which support the skin barrier.
  • Niacinamide, often well tolerated and used for redness and tone.
  • Vitamin C, an antioxidant used for radiance and tone, if your skin tolerates it.

What should I avoid?

Harsh scrubs, frequent strong peels at home, alcohol-based toners, heavily fragranced products and very hot water. These damage a skin barrier that is already more fragile. Introduce new products one at a time, so you can identify any that irritate.

Want a personalised skin plan? Request a free, personalised quote. Aesthetic medicine treatments organised by Medespoir in Tunisia cost about 60% less than in Switzerland; the exact price is given in a personal quote within 48 hours.

Retinoids and other proven actives

Why are retinoids so often recommended?

Because they have the strongest evidence among topical treatments for photoageing. A systematic review of randomised controlled trials, published in the International Journal of Women’s Dermatology in 2022, included seven trials of topical tretinoin. All reported that tretinoin was effective in improving the clinical signs of photoageing, including wrinkles, mottled pigmentation, sallowness and age spots, with improvement seen as early as one month and maintained after 24 months. The treatment was considered safe and well tolerated.

Prescription or over the counter?

Tretinoin and other prescription retinoids are stronger and better studied. Over-the-counter retinol and retinal products are gentler and can be a good starting point for sensitive skin. A dermatologist or GP can advise which form and strength suits you.

How do I start a retinoid without irritating my skin?

  • Start two or three evenings a week with a pea-sized amount for the whole face.
  • Apply it on dry skin, avoiding the corners of the nose, the lips and the immediate eye area.
  • Use a moisturiser on top or before it if your skin is dry.
  • Increase frequency gradually over several weeks.
  • Use sunscreen every day, as retinoids can make the skin more sensitive to the sun.

Mild redness and flaking in the first weeks are common. Stop and seek advice if irritation is severe. Retinoids should not be used during pregnancy, which is not usually a concern at menopause but remains relevant during perimenopause.

Do peptides, growth factors and « menopause creams » work?

Many products are marketed specifically for menopausal skin. Some contain useful moisturising ingredients, but evidence for most specific claims is limited. A good moisturiser, sunscreen and a retinoid remain the foundation; additional products are optional.

Dryness, itching and sensitive skin

Dry, itchy skin is one of the most common complaints during menopause, on the face and the body.

Why does my skin itch more since menopause?

Because a weaker barrier loses water more easily and lets irritants in. Indoor heating in the Swiss winter and long hot showers make it worse. Persistent itching without visible dryness should, however, be checked by a doctor, because it can have other causes such as thyroid, liver or kidney problems, iron deficiency, medicines or skin diseases.

What helps?

  • Short, lukewarm showers with a soap-free cleanser.
  • A rich moisturiser applied within minutes after washing, while the skin is still slightly damp.
  • A humidifier in heated rooms in winter.
  • Soft, breathable fabrics and fragrance-free laundry products.

What about vaginal dryness?

The genitourinary syndrome of menopause, which includes vaginal dryness, irritation, itching and pain during intercourse, is very common. A systematic review published in Menopause in 2021 found that the prevalence of these symptoms ranged from 13% to 87% across studies, that the condition is rarely discussed during medical visits and that many women are unaware of the treatment options. Lubricants, moisturisers and low-dose vaginal oestrogen are established treatments. Talk to your gynaecologist: this is a medical condition, not something to put up with.

Is rosacea linked to menopause?

Many women notice more flushing and redness during perimenopause, and rosacea can appear or worsen. Hot drinks, alcohol, spicy food, heat and sun are common triggers. Medical creams, oral treatments and vascular lasers can help. See a dermatologist for a diagnosis, as rosacea is sometimes mistaken for sensitive skin or acne.

Age spots, melasma and uneven tone

What is the difference between age spots and melasma?

Age spots (solar lentigines) are well-defined brown spots caused by cumulative sun exposure, mainly on the face, hands and décolleté. Melasma consists of larger, blurred brown patches, often symmetrical on the cheeks, forehead or upper lip, influenced by hormones, sun and visible light. The distinction matters, because treatments that remove age spots can worsen melasma.

How are age spots treated?

Sun protection prevents new spots. Retinoids can lighten existing ones gradually. For faster results, dermatologists use lasers, intense pulsed light, cryotherapy or peels. Any spot that changes, grows, bleeds or looks different from the others must be examined before treatment, because a skin cancer can look like a simple spot.

What works for melasma?

An evidence-based review published in the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology in 2020, which included 113 studies and nearly 6,900 participants, concluded that hydroquinone and a triple combination cream (hydroquinone, tretinoin and a corticosteroid) were the most effective and best-studied treatments. Chemical peels and laser or light treatments gave mixed results, were equal or inferior to topical treatments and carried a higher risk of side effects. Oral tranexamic acid was described as a promising option for moderate to severe, recurrent melasma, with more studies needed on long-term safety. Melasma is chronic: strict photoprotection is essential, and relapses are common.

Can menopause make melasma disappear?

For some women, melasma linked to pregnancy or the pill fades after menopause; for others, it persists or appears with hormone therapy. Each case is different, and a dermatologist can help adjust the treatment.

Sagging and loss of firmness

Loss of firmness is often the change that bothers women most. The right treatment depends on how much laxity there is.

Degree of laxity What it looks like Options to discuss
Early Skin less springy, slight softening of the jawline Retinoids, skin boosters, biostimulators, radiofrequency or microneedling
Moderate Visible jowls, softer neck, deeper folds Biostimulators, combined device treatments, fillers for support, thread lifts in selected cases
Marked Heavy jowls, loose neck skin, bands Surgery (facelift, neck lift), with skin treatments for quality

Can creams lift sagging skin?

No cream can lift sagging tissues. Retinoids and good skincare improve skin quality and may slightly improve firmness over months, but marked laxity needs procedures or surgery.

When is surgery the better choice?

When the skin and deeper tissues have clearly descended, non-surgical treatments produce limited, short-lived improvements and can become expensive over time. A surgical consultation helps you compare the options honestly. Our guide to cosmetic surgery after 50 covers facelifts, eyelid surgery and neck lifts.

Biostimulators and skin boosters

These injectable treatments aim to improve skin quality and firmness rather than create obvious volume, which makes them popular for menopausal skin.

What are biostimulators?

Biostimulators are injectables that stimulate the skin to produce its own collagen. The most common are poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), calcium hydroxylapatite and polycaprolactone. Medespoir’s aesthetic medicine guide explains that, rather than adding volume directly, they stimulate collagen production for a progressive improvement in firmness and density, and that they suit a global, natural rejuvenation approach, particularly for skin that is starting to sag. The guide also warns that, poorly used, they can create nodules or irregularities, so an experienced practitioner is essential.

What does the evidence show for PLLA?

A multicentre randomised trial published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology in 2025 compared PLLA with hyaluronic acid filler for midface volume loss in 331 participants. On the primary outcome, 90.6% of the PLLA group responded compared with 51.0% of the hyaluronic acid group. At 12 months, the response rate was 84.9% with PLLA versus 47.0% with hyaluronic acid, and participants were more satisfied in the PLLA group. Adverse events did not differ significantly, apart from slightly more injection-site reactions with PLLA, which resolved within one to three days. This is one trial, in one population, but it supports the idea that biostimulators give a gradual and durable effect.

How are biostimulators used?

Usually in a series of sessions several weeks apart, with results developing progressively over months. Because the effect is gradual, patience is needed, and touch-ups are planned rather than added on impulse. Avoid them in areas where nodules are particularly visible unless the practitioner has specific experience.

What are skin boosters?

Skin boosters are injections of lightly cross-linked or non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid, placed superficially in many small points. Medespoir’s guide describes them as aimed at improving skin quality rather than creating volume, with light after-effects such as small injection marks, redness and sometimes temporary small bumps. They are often used for dehydrated, dull, crepey skin on the face, neck and décolleté, in a course of sessions followed by maintenance.

Do fillers still have a role?

Yes, in moderation. Hyaluronic acid fillers can restore specific volumes, for example in the temples, cheeks or chin, which supports the jawline. The aim after menopause is subtle support, not a full or puffy face. For details, see our guide to facial injections.

Lasers, radiofrequency and other devices for mature skin

Energy-based devices can improve texture, spots, redness and, to some extent, firmness. Mature skin heals more slowly, so settings and intervals must be adapted.

Which devices are used for menopausal skin?

Device Main use Points to consider for mature skin
Fractional lasers Texture, fine lines, spots Recovery time depends on intensity; careful sun protection afterwards
Intense pulsed light Brown spots, redness Not suitable for melasma in many cases
Radiofrequency (with or without microneedling) Mild to moderate laxity, texture Several sessions; gradual results
Focused ultrasound Mild laxity of the lower face and neck Effect is modest; results vary
Microneedling Texture, scars, skin quality Usually well tolerated; several sessions
Chemical peels Tone, texture, spots Choose depth carefully; thin skin is more reactive

Are devices safe for thin, mature skin?

Generally yes, when performed by trained professionals with appropriate settings. Ask who will perform your treatment and what their qualification is.

What do Swiss rules say about cosmetic lasers and HIFU?

In Switzerland, cosmetic treatments using non-ionising radiation and sound, such as lasers, intense pulsed light and focused ultrasound, are regulated by a federal law and ordinance in force since 1 June 2019. According to the Federal Office of Public Health, since 1 June 2024 people who perform such treatments need a certificate of competence. Certain techniques and treatments are reserved for doctors, meaning they may only be carried out by a doctor or under a doctor’s direct instruction, supervision and responsibility. The FAQ of the Federal Office lists among the reserved techniques high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) and ablative lasers, and among the reserved treatments actinic and seborrhoeic keratoses and age spots, as well as treatments on the eyelids or close to the eyes. Its page on these treatments and its FAQ explain the details. For menopausal skin, this matters: removing age spots with a laser in Switzerland is a medical act, and a spot should be assessed by a doctor before it is treated.

Which questions should I ask before a device treatment?

  • Who will perform the treatment, and do they hold the required qualification or work under a doctor’s responsibility?
  • Has a doctor examined the spots or areas to be treated?
  • How many sessions are planned, and how long is the recovery after each one?
  • What are the risks for my skin type, especially pigmentation, burns or prolonged redness?
  • When should I stop my retinoid, and when can I resume it?
  • How must I protect my skin from the sun afterwards?

How should treatments be timed?

Many practitioners prefer to schedule more aggressive laser treatments in autumn and winter, when sun exposure is lower, and to avoid them before a holiday in the sun or in the mountains. Retinoids are usually paused for a few days around some treatments; follow your practitioner’s instructions.

Neck, décolleté, hands and body

Why does the neck age faster than the face?

The skin of the neck is thinner and has fewer oil glands, and it is often forgotten in sun protection and skincare routines. Apply your sunscreen, retinoid (with care) and moisturiser to the neck as well. Skin boosters, radiofrequency and lasers can improve neck skin quality; marked laxity or bands may require surgery.

What about the décolleté?

The décolleté often shows sun damage: spots, redness, fine vertical wrinkles. Sun protection, retinoids and treatments such as intense pulsed light, lasers or skin boosters can help. Any new or changing mole needs to be checked.

And the hands?

The back of the hands shows spots, thin skin and visible veins and tendons. Sunscreen, a hand cream with a retinoid or exfoliating ingredients, lasers for spots and fillers or biostimulators for volume loss are the main options.

Does the skin of the body change too?

Yes. Many women notice drier skin, more crepey texture on the arms, thighs and abdomen, and changes in fat distribution. Our guide to non-surgical body contouring covers loose skin, cellulite and stretch marks on the body.

Hair and facial hair at menopause

Skin and hair are closely linked, and many women notice changes in both at the same time.

Why is my hair thinning?

Thinning on the top of the head, with a widening parting, is common around and after menopause and often corresponds to female pattern hair loss. Other causes, such as iron deficiency, thyroid problems, stress, illness or certain medicines, can contribute or mimic it. A doctor can check blood tests and the pattern of loss. Topical minoxidil is the main medical treatment for female pattern hair loss in the European guideline. Our guide to female hair loss and its treatments explains the options.

Why do I have more facial hair?

As oestrogen falls, the relative effect of androgens increases, and some women notice darker hairs on the chin or upper lip. Laser hair removal works best on dark hair and is less effective on grey or white hairs; electrolysis can treat light hairs. Sudden, marked hair growth, especially with other signs such as a deeper voice, should be assessed by a doctor.

Do eyebrows and eyelashes change too?

Often. Brows can become thinner and lashes shorter. Gentle care, avoiding over-plucking and, if desired, cosmetic options such as tinting or semi-permanent make-up can help. Brow transplants are a surgical option in selected cases.

Lifestyle: what really makes a difference

Treatments work better on skin that is supported by healthy habits. None of these measures is spectacular on its own, but together they slow ageing and improve how the skin responds to care.

Does smoking affect menopausal skin?

Yes. Smoking reduces blood flow to the skin, damages collagen and is associated with more wrinkles and slower healing. Stopping helps your skin, your heart, your bones and the safety of any surgery or procedure you may consider later.

Do diet and sleep matter?

The skin needs protein, healthy fats and micronutrients to repair itself. A varied diet with enough protein, vegetables, fruit, nuts and fish supports skin health, while very low-calorie diets can leave the face looking drawn. Poor sleep, which is common during menopause because of night sweats, shows quickly on the face. Treating hot flushes and sleep problems with your doctor can therefore indirectly help your skin.

And alcohol?

Alcohol dehydrates, triggers flushing and can worsen rosacea. Reducing it often improves redness and sleep quality.

Does exercise help?

Regular physical activity supports circulation, muscle tone, bone health and sleep, all of which matter after menopause. When exercising outdoors, protect your skin from the sun, especially at altitude.

Changes that need a doctor

Not every skin change at menopause is cosmetic. Some need a medical opinion, and aesthetic treatment should never delay the diagnosis of a skin cancer.

Which spots or moles should be checked?

See a doctor or dermatologist for any spot or mole that is new, changing in size, shape or colour, asymmetric, irregular, bleeding, itching, or simply looks different from your other spots. Also have rough, scaly patches on sun-exposed skin checked, as well as a sore that does not heal. A full skin check is a good idea before starting laser treatment for spots.

Which other symptoms need attention?

  • Persistent itching without visible dryness.
  • Sudden excessive hair growth, deepening of the voice or rapid hair loss.
  • Severe adult acne appearing for the first time.
  • Easy bruising without injury.
  • Rashes that do not respond to simple care.

Should I tell the practitioner about my medicines?

Yes, always. Blood thinners increase bruising after injections; some medicines increase sun sensitivity; autoimmune diseases, a history of cold sores or a tendency to keloid scars influence the choice of treatment. Mention hormone therapy too.

Common mistakes to avoid

Many women spend a lot on their skin at menopause without getting the results they hoped for. A few recurring mistakes explain much of the disappointment.

  • Adding more and more products. A long routine with several acids, scrubs and fragranced creams often irritates a weakened barrier. Fewer, well-chosen products work better.
  • Skipping sunscreen in winter or in the city. Ultraviolet exposure continues on cloudy days and through windows, and winter sports add strong exposure at altitude.
  • Giving up on a retinoid too early. Irritation in the first weeks is common; adjusting the frequency usually solves it, and the benefits take months.
  • Treating every brown spot as harmless. A changing spot must be examined before any laser or peel.
  • Trying to lift sagging with filler. Large volumes of filler can make the face heavy without lifting it; for marked laxity, surgery may be the better option.
  • Doing intensive treatments just before a holiday in the sun. Recently treated skin pigments more easily.
  • Expecting hormone therapy to solve skin ageing. It may help menopausal symptoms, but it is not a skin treatment on its own.

Building a realistic plan

The best results come from combining a solid daily routine with a few well-chosen treatments, spaced over time.

What does a typical plan look like?

  1. Foundation, for life: daily sunscreen, a gentle cleanser, a barrier-repair moisturiser and a retinoid.
  2. Medical check: a skin examination and treatment of rosacea, melasma or other conditions.
  3. Skin quality: skin boosters, microneedling or lasers, depending on your needs.
  4. Firmness: biostimulators or radiofrequency for early to moderate laxity.
  5. Structure: subtle fillers, or surgery for marked laxity.
  6. Maintenance: touch-ups at intervals agreed with your practitioner.

How long before I see results?

Sunscreen and moisturiser improve comfort within days. Retinoids start to show effects after one to a few months. Biostimulators and radiofrequency act progressively over several months. Skin boosters improve hydration and radiance after a course of sessions. Patience and consistency matter more than any single treatment.

What should I budget for?

Aesthetic treatments for purely cosmetic reasons are not covered by basic health insurance (KVG/LAMal) in Switzerland. Most treatments require maintenance, so plan a yearly budget rather than a one-off expense. Medical consultations for skin diseases, suspicious moles or rosacea are a different matter and can be covered under the usual insurance rules.

Treatments in Switzerland or abroad

Where can I be treated in Switzerland?

Dermatologists, plastic surgeons and doctors trained in aesthetic medicine offer these treatments throughout Switzerland, including in English in Geneva, Zurich, Basel and Lausanne. Check qualifications in the federal MedReg register and ask who performs each treatment.

Is it worth combining treatments with a stay in Tunisia?

For some people, yes, particularly when several treatments are planned or combined with surgery. Medespoir’s aesthetic medicine guide describes the organisation of a course of care in Tunisia, including combining treatments and follow-up after the return to Switzerland. Treatment in Tunisia costs about 60% less than in Switzerland; the exact price is given in a free, personalised quote within 48 hours.

What should I keep in mind for treatment abroad?

  • Avoid strong sun exposure immediately after lasers or peels: plan the timing of your trip accordingly.
  • Ask for the names of the products injected and keep the information, as Medespoir’s guide recommends product traceability.
  • Know who to contact if a problem appears after your return, and identify a doctor in Switzerland who can see you if needed.
  • Do not combine too many treatments in a few days on mature, sensitive skin.

What about Turkey?

Medespoir confirms hair transplants in its Istanbul clinics. For aesthetic medicine treatments, the quote specifies whether the treatment is possible in Turkey and where.

Frequently asked questions

Why has my skin become so dry since menopause?

Falling oestrogen weakens the skin barrier and reduces moisture and sebum. A gentle cleanser, a barrier-repair moisturiser and avoiding irritants usually help.

Will hormone therapy rejuvenate my skin?

It may have some effect, but a large randomised trial of low-dose therapy found no significant improvement in facial ageing, and guidelines do not recommend it for the skin alone.

What is the best anti-ageing product after 50?

A daily broad-spectrum sunscreen, followed by a retinoid. Both have evidence from randomised trials.

Can I use retinol if my skin is sensitive?

Often yes, by starting slowly, a few evenings a week, with a moisturiser. Ask a dermatologist if irritation persists.

Are biostimulators better than fillers for menopausal skin?

They do different things. Biostimulators improve firmness gradually; fillers restore specific volumes. Many plans combine both in moderation.

How do I treat melasma after menopause?

With strict sun protection and topical treatments such as hydroquinone or triple combination creams under medical supervision. Lasers can worsen melasma and are used cautiously.

Does basic insurance pay for skin treatments?

Not for cosmetic purposes. Medical consultations for skin diseases or suspicious moles follow the usual insurance rules.

When should I see a dermatologist rather than a beauty salon?

For any changing spot or mole, persistent itching, rosacea, melasma, and before medical treatments such as lasers, injections or prescription creams.

Your next step: request a free, personalised quote for aesthetic medicine treatments adapted to mature skin. Treatment in Tunisia costs about 60% less than in Switzerland, and the exact price is given in your quote within 48 hours. See also our aesthetic medicine guide.

Main sources: Castelo-Branco et al., Skin collagen changes related to age and hormone replacement therapy, Maturitas (1992); Brincat et al., Decline in skin collagen content after the menopause, BJOG (1987); Phillips et al., Does hormone therapy improve age-related skin changes in postmenopausal women? Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (2008); Viscomi et al., Managing menopausal skin changes, Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2025); Hughes et al., Sunscreen and prevention of skin aging: a randomized trial, Annals of Internal Medicine (2013); Educational level-dependent melanoma awareness in a high-risk population in Switzerland, Frontiers in Oncology (2023); Sitohang et al., Topical tretinoin for treating photoaging: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials, International Journal of Women’s Dermatology (2022); Zhang et al., Poly-L-lactic acid for midfacial volume loss: a randomized trial, Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2025); McKesey et al., Melasma treatment: an evidence-based review, American Journal of Clinical Dermatology (2020); Genitourinary syndrome of menopause: a systematic review on prevalence and treatment, Menopause (2021); Federal Office of Public Health, treatments with non-ionising radiation and sound; Medespoir, aesthetic medicine guide.

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