12-Week Clinical Evaluation of Menopausal Skin Function Using Protective and Reparative Skin Care

Abstract

Background: The skin is hormonally responsive, and declining estrogen levels during menopause are linked to measurable structural and functional changes. Estrogen, along with progesterone and androgens, affects receptors involved in collagen synthesis, antioxidant activity, immune response, and barrier integrity. Estrogen deficiency disrupts these pathways, reducing skin resilience, hydration, and immune defence, contributing to visible ageing. Purpose: To investigate the clinical effectiveness, safety and tolerability of a tailored topical skincare regimen to support skin resilience, function, and radiance throughout the menopause transition, in order to manage skin changes associated with hormonal decline. Participants: Twenty subjects used skincare (The Essential Six, RATIONALE, Victoria, Australia), comprising solar protection by day and repair night for 12 weeks. No other skincare or aesthetic treatments were used during the study. Measurements: Facial imaging was performed at baseline, and after 30, 60, and 90 days. Participants completed self-assessments at each time point. Ten participants also received tailored Professional Formulations at days 30 and 60 to evaluate whether targeted in-clinic intervention enhanced outcomes compared to the remaining participants. Results: This study was performed on twenty participants who were provided with a dedicated skincare regimen to be used over 90 days at home. Half of these subjects (10) were provided with additional in-clinic professional treatment. Fourteen of the full cohort (70%) showed improvements in oxidative stress, inflammation, wrinkle depth, and hydration. Of these fourteen, seven of them (35%) had received in-clinic professional treatments. Two participants (10%) experienced transient adverse responses during the study period. Both participants developed initial cutaneous reactivity, which resolved following temporary discontinuation of active ingredients and subsequent modification of their daily skincare regimen. Conclusion: This study confirms that a targeted solar protection and repair regimen supports skin health during menopause, particularly when delivered through a combined approach composed of a structured at-home application with adjunctive clinical treatments, it yielded superior outcomes. Among the 10 participants receiving the combined approach, 70% reported improved outcomes and expressed intent to continue adjunctive treatments.