Menopause & Perimenopause Skin Treatments Sunshine Coast

Menopause doesn't just affect your hormones. It can significantly influence how your skin functions, repairs itself, retains moisture and produces collagen.
For many women, changes in their skin begin during perimenopause, sometimes years before their final menstrual period. Skin that was previously resilient may become dry, sensitive, reactive or noticeably thinner. Fine lines may become more pronounced, pigmentation can appear more noticeable, and some women experience facial flushing or redness for the first time.
These changes aren't simply the result of getting older. They are influenced by complex biological processes involving estrogen, collagen synthesis, skin barrier function, inflammation and the skin's ability to regenerate.
At That Skin Clinic in Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast, we take a skin health approach to perimenopausal and menopausal skin, focusing on understanding the underlying changes before recommending treatment.
Our personalised treatment plans may incorporate Mesoestetic's Exopeptide Expert Pack, professional skin needling, laser rejuvenation, IPL, LED light therapy and targeted home care to support the skin throughout this stage of life.
How Does Menopause Affect Your Skin?
Our skin is a hormonally responsive organ. It contains estrogen receptors within several skin structures, including cells involved in collagen production, pigmentation and skin barrier maintenance.
Estrogen plays an important role in maintaining skin thickness, hydration, elasticity and the structural integrity of the dermis.
During perimenopause, estrogen levels fluctuate considerably. Following menopause, estrogen levels remain substantially lower than during the reproductive years.
These hormonal changes can influence several important functions within the skin:
- Collagen and elastin production
- Skin thickness and structural support
- Hyaluronic acid and moisture retention
- Skin barrier function and lipid production
- Wound healing and tissue repair
- Skin sensitivity and inflammatory responses
- Vascular reactivity and facial flushing
- Pigmentation and uneven skin tone
The result is that menopausal skin can behave very differently from the skin you were familiar with in your thirties or early forties.
Understanding these changes allows us to develop treatment plans that address more than the visible signs of ageing.
Why Does Collagen Decline During Menopause?
One of the most significant changes associated with menopause is the reduction in dermal collagen.
Collagen is a structural protein responsible for much of the skin's strength, firmness and resilience. Within the dermis, specialised cells called fibroblasts produce collagen, elastin and other components of the extracellular matrix.
Estrogen helps regulate fibroblast activity and collagen metabolism.
As estrogen levels decline, collagen synthesis can decrease. At the same time, enzymes known as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which are involved in breaking down components of the extracellular matrix, can contribute to collagen degradation.
This means menopausal skin may experience two processes simultaneously: reduced production of new collagen and continued breakdown of existing collagen.
Research has reported that skin collagen content may decline by approximately 30% during the first five years following menopause, although the rate varies between individuals and is influenced by chronological ageing, sun exposure and other factors.
As collagen declines, you may notice:
- Thinner or more fragile-looking skin
- Increased fine lines and wrinkles
- Loss of skin firmness
- Crepey skin across the face, neck and décolletage
- Reduced elasticity
- More noticeable skin folds
- Changes in overall skin texture
These structural changes help explain why moisturising alone may not adequately address all the concerns associated with menopausal skin.
Why Does Skin Become Drier During Perimenopause & Menopause?
Dryness is one of the most commonly reported skin changes during menopause.
Estrogen influences the skin's ability to maintain hydration, partly through its effects on the extracellular matrix, glycosaminoglycans and skin barrier function.
Glycosaminoglycans, including hyaluronic acid, help bind and retain water within the skin.
Changes in these components, alongside alterations in epidermal lipids and natural oil production, can leave the skin less able to maintain moisture.
You may notice your skin becoming:
- Tight or uncomfortable after cleansing
- Rough or flaky
- More sensitive to skincare products
- Less supple and plump
- Dull or dehydrated
- More prone to irritation
It is important to distinguish between dry skin and dehydrated skin. Dry skin generally refers to insufficient lipids, while dehydration refers to reduced water content.
During menopause, both concerns can occur together.
Our approach often begins with restoring skin comfort, improving hydration and supporting the skin barrier before introducing more intensive rejuvenation treatments.
Why Can Menopause Cause Facial Redness, Flushing & Sensitive Skin?
Some women experience facial flushing, increased redness or changes in skin sensitivity during perimenopause and menopause.
Hormonal fluctuations influence the body's temperature-regulating systems and vascular responses. During a hot flush, blood vessels near the skin's surface dilate, increasing blood flow and producing a sensation of warmth and visible redness.
These episodes can occur across the face, neck and upper chest.
Changes in skin barrier function may also contribute to increased sensitivity and reactivity.
Women may notice:
- Sudden facial flushing
- Increased redness across the cheeks and nose
- Skin that feels hot or uncomfortable
- Greater sensitivity to heat
- Stinging when applying skincare
- Increased reactivity to previously tolerated products
- More noticeable facial capillaries
However, not all menopausal redness is caused by hormonal changes.
Rosacea, contact dermatitis, sun damage and other inflammatory skin conditions can present with similar symptoms. Persistent redness, papules, pustules or burning sensations may require medical assessment.
At That Skin Clinic, we distinguish between temporary flushing, persistent vascular redness and inflammatory skin conditions before recommending treatment.
For suitable clients, our approach may include barrier-supportive skincare, LED therapy and carefully selected IPL vascular treatments.
Can Menopause Cause Pigmentation & Uneven Skin Tone?
Pigmentation can become more noticeable during perimenopause and menopause, although the relationship between hormones and pigmentation is complex.
Estrogen influences melanocyte activity, while cumulative ultraviolet exposure remains a major contributor to age spots, freckles and uneven skin tone.
Some women may experience persistent melasma, while others notice the gradual appearance of sun-related pigmentation across the face, neck, décolletage and hands.
Common concerns include:
- Uneven skin tone
- Sunspots and age spots
- Melasma
- Dullness
- Pigmentation across the cheeks and forehead
- Sun damage on the neck and décolletage
Not all pigmentation responds to the same treatment.
During your consultation, we assess the appearance and history of your pigmentation to determine whether IPL, picosecond laser, professional peels or a more conservative pigmentation-management approach may be suitable.
Suspicious or changing pigmented lesions require medical assessment before cosmetic treatment.
Introducing Mesoestetic Exopeptide Expert Pack for Menopausal Skin
At That Skin Clinic, we have introduced Mesoestetic's Exopeptide Expert Pack, a professional treatment program developed specifically for skin experiencing changes associated with perimenopause and menopause.
The range combines plant-derived exosome ingredients, peptides, PDRN, hyaluronic acid and antioxidant ingredients in a treatment protocol designed to support hydration, skin quality and the appearance of ageing skin.
Unlike traditional rejuvenation treatments that focus primarily on exfoliation or resurfacing, the Exopeptide program combines professional skin needling with a multi-ingredient formulation and complementary home care.
The professional treatment is designed to address concerns such as:
- Dryness and dehydration
- Fine lines and uneven texture
- Dull or tired-looking skin
- Loss of skin firmness
- Changes in skin quality
- Visible signs of skin ageing
The formulation also includes ingredients selected for their soothing and barrier-supportive properties.
Although exosome-derived ingredients are an emerging area of cosmetic research, clinical evidence for their specific benefits remains developing. Treatment outcomes cannot be attributed to exosomes alone, particularly when combined with microneedling and other active ingredients.
What Are Exosomes & Why Are They Being Studied in Skin Health?
Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles released by cells. They are involved in cellular communication and can carry biological materials such as proteins, lipids and nucleic acids.
In regenerative medicine and dermatological research, extracellular vesicles are being investigated for their potential roles in cellular signalling, inflammation and tissue repair.
Mesoestetic's Exopeptide range incorporates ingredients described by the manufacturer as aloe vera-derived exosomes.
Plant-derived vesicles are an emerging area of research, and their biological activity, skin penetration and clinical effectiveness depend on the specific formulation and manufacturing process.
Importantly, plant-derived cosmetic exosome ingredients should not be confused with medical stem cell therapies.
At That Skin Clinic, we consider the complete formulation, the evidence supporting its ingredients and the role of professional skin needling when evaluating new technologies.
The Science Behind the Exopeptide Formulation
Peptides & Collagen Support
Peptides are short chains of amino acids. Certain cosmetic peptides are investigated for their ability to influence signalling pathways associated with skin structure and collagen metabolism.
The Exopeptide range contains several peptide ingredients, including oligopeptides, decapeptides and acetyl tetrapeptides.
These ingredients are included in formulations intended to support the appearance of firmness, elasticity and skin quality.
Their effectiveness depends on the specific peptide, concentration, formulation and available clinical evidence.
PDRN & Skin Recovery Research
PDRN, or polydeoxyribonucleotide, is a DNA-derived ingredient being investigated for its potential role in tissue repair and regenerative processes.
Research into PDRN has explored its influence on cellular activity and wound healing, although findings from medical applications cannot automatically be applied to cosmetic products.
Within the Exopeptide formulation, PDRN is combined with other ingredients intended to support overall skin quality.
Resveratrol & Antioxidant Protection
Resveratrol is a plant-derived polyphenol recognised for its antioxidant properties.
Antioxidants help counter oxidative stress, a process associated with environmental damage and skin ageing.
Resveratrol is also being investigated for its effects on pathways associated with inflammation and collagen metabolism.
While resveratrol is sometimes described as having phytoestrogen-like activity, this does not mean a cosmetic formulation replaces estrogen or provides the effects of medical hormone therapy.
Hyaluronic Acid & Niacinamide
Hyaluronic acid helps attract and retain moisture, improving the appearance of dehydrated skin.
Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, has evidence supporting its role in skin barrier function, hydration and improving uneven-looking skin tone.
These ingredients can be particularly relevant when menopausal skin is experiencing dryness, reduced barrier resilience and sensitivity.
How Does the Exopeptide Expert Treatment Work?
The professional Exopeptide protocol is delivered in two phases.
Phase One: Exopeptide Solution with Skin Needling
Following skin cleansing and preparation, the Exopeptide solution is applied as part of a professional microneedling treatment.
Microneedling creates controlled micro-injuries in the skin, initiating a natural wound-healing response.
This process can stimulate collagen remodelling and progressively improve the appearance of fine lines, uneven texture and certain signs of skin ageing.
The Exopeptide solution contains a combination of ingredients selected for skin hydration and cosmetic skin support.
Phase Two: Exopeptide Booster and Spheres
The second phase combines the Exopeptide Booster with dissolvable Exopeptide spheres.
These formulations contain a combination of peptides, hyaluronic acid, plant-derived ingredients and other cosmetic actives.
The mixture is applied topically following the professional treatment, according to the manufacturer's protocol and individual skin suitability.
The treatment may finish with a cooling, soothing mask and appropriate skin protection.
At That Skin Clinic, we assess the skin's condition and suitability for microneedling before recommending this treatment. We also follow applicable product instructions and infection-control requirements.
How Many Exopeptide Treatments Are Recommended?
Mesoestetic's professional Exopeptide Expert Pack is designed around a course of five treatments, generally spaced approximately two weeks apart.
This allows for a progressive approach to treating skin quality rather than relying on a single appointment.
The program may include:
- Five professional Exopeptide treatment sessions
- Skin needling where appropriate
- Exopeptide solution, booster and spheres
- Post-treatment calming care
- Personalised home-care recommendations
- Ongoing assessment of skin response and progress
Treatment frequency may be modified depending on your skin condition, recovery, medical history and tolerance.
Collagen remodelling occurs gradually, so improvements associated with microneedling may continue to develop over the following weeks and months.
The manufacturer has presented treatment examples showing improvements in visible redness, texture and overall skin appearance. However, larger independent clinical studies are needed to establish the specific contribution of the Exopeptide ingredients.
Exopeptide Home Care for Perimenopausal & Menopausal Skin
Professional treatment is only one component of maintaining healthy skin during menopause.
The Exopeptide range also includes complementary home-care products developed to address dryness, changes in skin quality and skin comfort.
Exopeptide Serum
The Exopeptide Serum contains aloe vera-derived exosome ingredients, peptides, resveratrol and selected plant extracts.
It is formulated to support hydration and improve the appearance of skin quality as part of a consistent daily routine.
Exopeptide Cream
The Exopeptide Cream combines plant-derived exosome ingredients, resveratrol, postbiotic ingredients and other barrier-supportive components.
It is designed to nourish the skin, improve moisture retention and support skin comfort without an excessively heavy texture.
Exopeptide Balance Mist
The Exopeptide Balance Mist is designed to provide a refreshing, cooling sensation when skin feels hot or uncomfortable.
The formulation includes ingredients such as alpha-bisabolol, lavender-derived ingredients and hyaluronic acid.
It may be useful for temporary skin comfort during episodes of warmth or flushing, although it does not treat the underlying hormonal cause of menopausal hot flushes.
We recommend home-care products based on your individual skin condition rather than assuming every menopausal skin type requires the same routine.
Other Menopausal Skin Treatments at That Skin Clinic
Not every woman experiencing menopause requires the same treatment.
Some clients primarily experience dryness and sensitivity, while others are more concerned with wrinkles, skin laxity, pigmentation or persistent redness.
At That Skin Clinic, we offer several professional treatments that may be incorporated into a personalised skin health plan.
Professional Skin Needling
Skin needling may help improve fine lines, uneven texture, mild crepiness and overall skin quality by stimulating collagen remodelling.
It may be suitable for women experiencing early changes in skin firmness and texture.
Fractional Er Laser Resurfacing
Our Etherea MX DualMode Er 2940 nm laser delivers controlled energy into the skin to create a resurfacing and repair response.
Fractional laser resurfacing may be considered for more pronounced fine lines, crepey skin, textural irregularities and selected signs of photoageing.
Laser resurfacing generally involves greater downtime and requires careful consideration of skin type, medical history and recovery capacity.
IPL for Redness & Pigmentation
IPL may be recommended for suitable clients experiencing sun-related pigmentation, diffuse redness or visible facial capillaries.
IPL targets selected chromophores within the skin and is not a treatment for systemic menopausal hot flushes.
LED Light Therapy
LED therapy may be incorporated into a skin health program to support skin recovery and comfort.
Red and near-infrared wavelengths are commonly used in cosmetic skin treatments because of their potential effects on cellular activity and inflammatory responses.
Targeted Facials & Barrier Repair
For skin experiencing dryness, sensitivity or impaired barrier function, a restorative facial may be more appropriate than an intensive corrective treatment.
These treatments may incorporate gentle enzymes, hydration, calming masks and carefully selected barrier-supportive ingredients.
Is Skin Needling or Laser Better for Menopausal Skin?
The most suitable treatment depends on the type and degree of skin changes.
For mild fine lines, early crepiness and changes in skin texture, professional skin needling may be a suitable starting point.
For more noticeable textural ageing or photoageing, fractional Er laser resurfacing may be considered.
If the primary concern is pigmentation or visible capillaries, IPL or picosecond laser may be more appropriate.
For sensitive, dehydrated or reactive skin, we may recommend improving skin barrier function before introducing any advanced treatment.
Often, the most effective approach involves a combination of treatments delivered progressively rather than attempting to address every concern in one session.
Can You Reverse Menopausal Skin Ageing?
Menopause is a natural biological transition, and cosmetic treatments cannot reverse the underlying hormonal changes.
However, many visible skin concerns can be improved.
Professional treatments may help improve skin texture, fine lines, hydration, pigmentation and some aspects of mild skin laxity.
Treatments such as microneedling and fractional laser resurfacing can stimulate collagen remodelling, while appropriate skincare can support barrier function and moisture retention.
It is important to distinguish between improving the appearance and function of the skin and restoring the hormonal environment that existed before menopause.
Medical treatments such as menopausal hormone therapy may have effects on skin biology, but decisions about hormone therapy should be made with an appropriately qualified medical practitioner based on overall health, symptoms, benefits and risks.
Protecting Your Skin During Perimenopause & Menopause
Maintaining healthy skin during menopause involves more than professional treatments.
A consistent home-care routine and appropriate lifestyle measures can help protect the skin against further environmental damage.
We recommend:
- Daily broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen
- Gentle cleansing that does not unnecessarily strip the skin
- Regular moisturising with barrier-supportive ingredients
- Appropriate use of antioxidants and other evidence-based skincare
- Avoiding excessive exfoliation
- Supporting adequate sleep and nutrition
- Avoiding smoking
- Managing cumulative sun exposure
- Seeking medical advice for persistent flushing, rosacea or other inflammatory symptoms
Depending on your skin condition, ingredients such as retinoids, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, ceramides and vitamin C may be beneficial.
However, skin that has become more reactive during menopause may require a gradual introduction of active ingredients.
A Personalised Approach to Menopausal Skin Health
One of the most important things to understand about menopausal skin is that hormonal changes do not affect every woman in the same way.
Some women experience a noticeable loss of firmness, while others develop dryness, pigmentation, flushing or sensitivity.
You may also be experiencing several concerns simultaneously.
For example, a client with persistent redness and dehydration may benefit from a period of barrier support before commencing a collagen-stimulating treatment.
Another client with pronounced fine lines and crepey texture may be more suited to a structured skin needling or laser rejuvenation program.
Our approach is to assess the skin's condition, understand your treatment history and develop a progressive plan that supports long-term skin health.
Start With a Menopausal Skin Consultation at That Skin Clinic
If you've noticed changes in your skin during perimenopause or menopause, you don't need to assume that dryness, sensitivity, redness or loss of firmness are simply concerns you have to accept.
At That Skin Clinic in Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast, we offer personalised skin consultations to help you understand what's happening within your skin and which treatments may be appropriate.
Our $75 Skin Consultation is fully redeemable toward recommended treatment or skincare.
Depending on your skin concerns, we may recommend the new Mesoestetic Exopeptide Expert Pack, professional skin needling, laser rejuvenation, IPL, LED therapy or a targeted skin health program.
Our focus is on improving skin quality, supporting collagen health and maintaining healthy, resilient skin throughout every stage of life.
That Skin Clinic | Mooloolaba, Sunshine Coast
Advanced cosmetic skin treatments with a focus on long-term skin health.














