Menopause & Perimenopause Skin Treatments Sunshine Coast

That Skin Clinic • October 28, 2026
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.


Book Your $75 Skin Consultation

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Pregnancy-Safe Facials Sunshine Coast Pregnancy brings significant hormonal changes, and your skin can change along with them. Some women experience the well-known pregnancy glow, while others notice increased sensitivity, dehydration, congestion, breakouts, pigmentation or skin that suddenly reacts to products they've used for years. At That Skin Clinic in Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast, we offer personalised pregnancy-safe facials designed to support your skin throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding. Rather than following the same facial protocol for every client, we assess your skin, consider your stage of pregnancy and select appropriate professional treatments and skincare ingredients. Your facial may incorporate gentle enzyme exfoliation, hydration, calming treatments, professional masks, carefully selected extractions and barrier-supportive skincare. Our approach is simple. Pregnancy doesn't mean you need to stop looking after your skin. It means understanding which treatments and ingredients are appropriate and adapting your skincare to support the changes your body is experiencing. How Does Pregnancy Affect Your Skin? During pregnancy, fluctuations in oestrogen, progesterone and other hormones can influence oil production, pigmentation, circulation, hydration and skin sensitivity. These changes can begin early in pregnancy and continue throughout the different trimesters. Common pregnancy-related skin concerns include: Hormonal acne and breakouts Congestion and blocked pores Increased oil production Dryness and dehydration Sensitive or reactive skin Facial redness and flushing Melasma and hormonal pigmentation Uneven skin tone Dull or tired-looking skin Changes in skin texture A compromised skin barrier Increased sensitivity to skincare products Some women experience increased oil production and congestion, while others develop dryness and sensitivity. It's also possible to experience several concerns at once, such as hormonal breakouts alongside dehydration and an impaired skin barrier. Understanding these changes is important because treating pregnancy-related skin concerns often requires a different approach to your usual skincare routine. Pregnancy-Safe Facials at That Skin Clinic Our pregnancy facials are tailored to your individual skin concerns, rather than using a predetermined sequence of products. We focus on maintaining healthy skin function, supporting hydration, managing congestion and improving the appearance of your skin without unnecessarily aggressive treatments. Depending on your skin and medical history, your facial may incorporate: Gentle Enzyme Treatments Professional enzyme treatments provide a form of superficial exfoliation that can help remove accumulated dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. They may be particularly useful for pregnancy-related dullness, rough texture and mild congestion. Unlike more intensive resurfacing treatments, carefully selected enzyme formulations can offer a gentler approach to improving skin texture and clarity. However, not all enzyme products are formulated the same way. We assess the complete formulation, including additional acids and active ingredients, before selecting a treatment suitable for pregnancy. Hydration & Barrier Support Hormonal changes during pregnancy can influence the skin's ability to maintain hydration and tolerate products. You may notice your skin becoming increasingly dry, tight, sensitive or reactive, even if you've previously had oily or combination skin. When the skin barrier is compromised, our priority is supporting hydration and reducing unnecessary irritation rather than exfoliating the skin further. Your facial may incorporate hydrating serums, nourishing moisturisers, calming masks and carefully selected ingredients designed to support the skin barrier. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides and appropriate soothing ingredients can help maintain hydration and improve skin comfort. Sometimes the most beneficial treatment during pregnancy is one that focuses on restoring balance rather than stimulating further exfoliation. Pregnancy-Safe Exfoliation Not all exfoliating acids are automatically unsuitable during pregnancy. Certain superficial exfoliating ingredients, including lactic acid and glycolic acid, may be considered in appropriate formulations and concentrations. However, pregnancy can increase skin sensitivity, and professional-strength chemical peels require additional consideration. At That Skin Clinic, we take a conservative approach to exfoliation during pregnancy. We generally avoid aggressive chemical peels, deep exfoliation and treatments designed to create significant inflammation or prolonged skin recovery. Our focus is on selecting the least intensive treatment necessary to address your concerns while supporting healthy skin function. Hormonal Breakouts & Congestion Pregnancy-related hormonal changes can stimulate sebaceous gland activity, increasing oil production and contributing to congestion or acne. For some women, breakouts develop during the first trimester. For others, they may continue throughout pregnancy or into the postpartum period. While many traditional acne treatments contain ingredients that are unsuitable during pregnancy, there are still ways to support breakout-prone skin. Your facial may incorporate: Gentle cleansing Appropriate enzyme exfoliation Carefully selected extractions Hydration and barrier support Non-comedogenic skincare Calming professional masks Pregnancy-appropriate home-care recommendations We avoid aggressively stripping the skin or using strong exfoliation simply because breakouts are present. For persistent inflammatory or cystic acne, we may recommend assessment by your GP or dermatologist to discuss pregnancy-compatible medical treatment options. Professional Extractions Where appropriate, gentle professional extractions may be incorporated into your pregnancy facial to address blackheads and selected areas of congestion. Extractions are performed conservatively, taking into consideration your skin's sensitivity, inflammation and barrier condition. We avoid aggressive squeezing or unnecessary trauma, particularly where the skin is already inflamed or reactive. Our aim is to improve congestion while minimising irritation and the risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation. Calming & Hydrating Masks Professional masks can be particularly beneficial when pregnancy has left your skin feeling dry, sensitive, flushed or uncomfortable. Depending on your skin, we may incorporate collagen fleece masks, hydrating gel masks, nourishing creams or other carefully selected professional treatments. These are selected to support hydration, improve skin comfort and help maintain a healthier skin barrier. Not every professional mask or active ingredient is automatically suitable during pregnancy, which is why product selection is an important part of your treatment. What About LED Light Therapy During Pregnancy? LED light therapy is commonly used in professional skin treatments to support skin recovery and address concerns such as inflammation and redness. However, research specifically examining cosmetic LED light therapy during pregnancy remains limited. For this reason, we do not routinely include cosmetic LED treatments during pregnancy without appropriate medical clearance and consideration of the device manufacturer's guidance. There are still many ways to support your skin through professional facials without incorporating light-based treatments. Our priority is selecting treatments with an appropriate safety profile for your individual circumstances. Melasma & Pregnancy Pigmentation Melasma, sometimes called the mask of pregnancy, is a common pigmentation concern associated with hormonal changes. It typically presents as patches of brown or grey-brown pigmentation, particularly across the cheeks, forehead, upper lip and other sun-exposed areas. Pregnancy-related hormonal changes can increase melanocyte activity, making the skin more susceptible to pigmentation, particularly when combined with ultraviolet radiation and visible light exposure. At That Skin Clinic, we take a conservative approach to managing melasma during pregnancy. Rather than attempting aggressive pigmentation removal, our focus is on supporting the skin barrier, minimising irritation and establishing an appropriate home-care routine. This may include: Gentle cleansing and hydration Barrier-supportive moisturisers Pregnancy-compatible brightening ingredients Daily broad-spectrum SPF 50+ Tinted sunscreen containing iron oxides to help protect against visible light Minimising heat and unnecessary skin inflammation Reviewing products that may contribute to irritation Ingredients such as azelaic acid may be appropriate during pregnancy and can be useful for certain pigmentation and acne concerns, depending on the formulation and individual circumstances. We generally defer laser pigmentation treatments, IPL and more intensive resurfacing procedures until after pregnancy. Melasma can also improve naturally after pregnancy, although some pigmentation may persist and require a more structured treatment plan. Which Skincare Ingredients Should Be Avoided During Pregnancy? Pregnancy is an important time to review your existing skincare routine, particularly if you're using prescription products, anti-ageing serums or professional-strength exfoliating treatments. Certain ingredients are best avoided during pregnancy, including: Retinoids Prescription tretinoin, adapalene, tazarotene and cosmetic retinol or retinal products are generally avoided during pregnancy. Hydroquinone Hydroquinone is generally avoided because of its relatively high systemic absorption and limited pregnancy safety data. High-Strength Salicylic Acid Peels Although small amounts of salicylic acid in some topical products may be considered acceptable, high-concentration professional salicylic acid peels are generally avoided during pregnancy. Aggressive Chemical Peels Medium-depth and deep chemical peels, or treatments designed to produce significant inflammation and prolonged recovery, are generally deferred. Certain Prescription Acne Treatments Some prescription acne medications are contraindicated during pregnancy and require review by your prescribing medical practitioner. This doesn't mean you need to eliminate every active ingredient from your skincare routine. It means selecting ingredients with an appropriate safety profile and understanding how they interact with your changing skin. Which Skincare Ingredients Can Be Used During Pregnancy? There are several well-established skincare ingredients that can help support skin health throughout pregnancy. Depending on your concerns, these may include: Hyaluronic Acid A humectant that helps attract and retain water, supporting hydration and improving the appearance of dehydrated skin. Niacinamide A form of vitamin B3 that can support skin barrier function, improve uneven-looking skin tone and help regulate the appearance of excess oil. Vitamin C An antioxidant that can help improve the appearance of dullness and uneven skin tone while supporting the skin against environmental oxidative stress. Azelaic Acid An ingredient commonly used for acne, redness and pigmentation concerns, with a generally favourable pregnancy safety profile when used appropriately. Ceramides Lipids that help maintain the skin's protective barrier and reduce moisture loss. Glycerin A humectant that supports hydration and improves skin comfort. Zinc Oxide Sunscreen A mineral UV filter that provides broad-spectrum protection when used in an appropriately formulated sunscreen. The most suitable ingredients will depend on your skin concerns, product formulation and any medical considerations. Can I Have a Facial During My First Trimester? Many gentle cosmetic facials can be performed during pregnancy, including the first trimester, provided the products and treatment techniques are appropriate. However, the first trimester is a period of significant physiological change, and some clients may experience increased nausea, fatigue, sensitivity or discomfort. At That Skin Clinic, we review your pregnancy history, current skin condition and any relevant medical concerns before proceeding. We may modify the treatment duration, positioning, products or techniques to ensure you remain comfortable. If you have a high-risk pregnancy, pregnancy complications or have been advised to restrict certain activities or treatments, we may request clearance from your maternity healthcare provider. You should always let us know that you're pregnant, even if you're in the very early stages. What About Facials While Breastfeeding? Breastfeeding can also influence skin hydration, hormonal activity and the appearance of breakouts or pigmentation. Many gentle professional facials remain suitable during breastfeeding, although some skincare ingredients and advanced treatments still require consideration. The precautions for pregnancy and breastfeeding are not always identical. Certain treatments or topical ingredients that are avoided during pregnancy may be considered compatible with breastfeeding, depending on their absorption, application area and available safety information. We assess your skin, breastfeeding status and current skincare before recommending treatment. What Treatments Are Not Recommended During Pregnancy? At That Skin Clinic, we generally defer elective advanced cosmetic procedures during pregnancy, including: IPL skin rejuvenation and pigmentation treatments Picosecond laser treatments Fractional Er laser resurfacing Cosmetic laser hair removal Laser tattoo removal Skin needling and microneedling Medium-depth and deep chemical peels Aggressive resurfacing treatments This precautionary approach reflects the limited pregnancy-specific safety evidence for many elective cosmetic procedures, along with considerations such as inflammation, pigmentation changes, infection risk and skin recovery. Pregnancy doesn't necessarily make every cosmetic procedure inherently harmful, but when a treatment is elective and safety evidence is limited, postponing it is generally the more appropriate approach. There are still effective ways to maintain skin health throughout pregnancy without undertaking advanced resurfacing or laser treatments. Why We Recommend a Tailored Pregnancy Facial Your skin can change considerably between the first trimester, third trimester and postpartum period. A facial that was suitable before pregnancy may no longer be the most appropriate treatment. For example, a client who previously benefited from regular exfoliation may suddenly develop sensitivity and dehydration. Another client may experience increased congestion and hormonal breakouts despite having relatively clear skin before pregnancy. Our pregnancy facials are designed to adapt to these changes. Rather than selecting the strongest treatment available, we consider what your skin actually needs at the time of your appointment. That may mean gentle enzymes and hydration at one visit, followed by a calming and barrier-supportive facial at another. Sometimes improving skin means doing less, not more. Which Pregnancy Facial Is Right for Me? You don't need to know. That's our job. If you're pregnant and wondering whether your skin needs exfoliation, hydration, congestion management or simply some professional attention, book a Skin Consultation with Tailored Facial. We'll assess your skin, discuss your pregnancy and current skincare routine, and select an appropriate treatment based on your individual needs. Our pregnancy-safe facials may be suitable for clients experiencing: Dryness and dehydration Dull or tired-looking skin Mild congestion Blackheads Hormonal changes in oil production Sensitive or reactive skin Uneven skin texture Mild facial redness Skin barrier concerns General skin health and maintenance For more complex concerns such as persistent inflammatory acne, melasma, rosacea or significant pigmentation, we may recommend a more structured skincare approach and referral to an appropriate healthcare professional. Start With a Pregnancy-Safe Tailored Facial Pregnancy can change your skin, but it doesn't mean you need to put your skin health on hold. At That Skin Clinic in Mooloolaba, our pregnancy-safe facials are designed to support your skin through these changes with carefully selected professional products, gentle treatment techniques and personalised home-care recommendations. Whether you're experiencing hormonal breakouts, dehydration, increased sensitivity, pigmentation or simply want to maintain healthy-looking skin throughout pregnancy, we'll tailor your facial to what your skin needs. Your treatment may incorporate gentle enzyme exfoliation, hydration, calming masks, selected extractions and barrier-supportive skincare where appropriate. You'll also leave with practical recommendations for maintaining your skin at home, including guidance on which ingredients to continue, introduce or avoid during pregnancy. That Skin Clinic | Mooloolaba, Sunshine Coast Advanced cosmetic skin treatments with a focus on long-term skin health. Book a Pregnancy-Safe Tailored Facial
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Skin Suffering From Melasma — That Skin Clinic in Mooloolaba, QLD
By Samara McRae • September 29, 2026
Manage melasma and uneven pigmentation with personalised treatments at That Skin Clinic on the Sunshine Coast, including Cosmelan®, peels and LED therapy.
Skin Pigmentation Caused By Sun Damage — That Skin Clinic in Mooloolaba, QLD
By Samara McRae • September 29, 2026
Address visible sun damage with personalised IPL, laser, skin needling and peel treatments at That Skin Clinic in Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast.
Broken Capillaries Being Treated — That Skin Clinic in Mooloolaba, QLD
By Samara McRae • September 29, 2026
Reduce the appearance of facial redness and broken capillaries with personalised IPL and laser treatments at That Skin Clinic on the Sunshine Coast.
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