Q: Dear Daron,

I’ve started noticing some shifts in my skin—unexpected breakouts, dryness in new places, and it’s just feeling a little less juicy. I just turned 47 and am wondering if it’s connected to hormones. Is this part of menopause? And if so, how can I support my skin as it adjusts?

–Wondering What’s Up

Hey Wondering What’s Up, 

First of all, thank you for asking this with such openness. These changes you’re noticing are so normal—and they deserve tenderness.

Let’s talk about how to care for your skin in this powerful phase of life. 

Hormonal shifts—especially around perimenopause—can absolutely affect your skin.

This is a time when progesterone begins to dip, and that can lead to either Testosterone-Led (Androgen Dominance), often experienced as surprise breakouts and oiliness, or Estrogen Dominance, which can show up as dark spots, thinner skin, or a sense of “deflation.” 

But here’s the good news: your skin is responsive, especially when it’s cared for with consistent, gentle intention.

Here’s what I’d recommend: 

Start by encouraging healthy turnover with an exfoliant that can help smooth your texture without stripping (like our Honey & Bamboo Scrub). Then make sure you hydrate and nourish the skin (our Repair Creme Concentrate features reparative herbs designed to nourish and restore resilience).

To address shifting tone or dark spots, look for gentle brightening ingredients like fruit enzymes (featured in our Cardamom Cream Cleanser).  And if you’re noticing increased pigmentation, look for ingredients like shiitake, tremella, and uva ursi (all in our Immortelle Mushroom Mylk).

For areas where skin feels thinner or less plump—especially around the eyes—you’ll want to support your skin’s elasticity (our Matcha Cucumber Eye Serum and Calm & Replenish Oil can help). And be sure to invite circulation with a gentle facial massage (we’ve got a guide on how to Gua Sha).

This phase of life is rich with change—and opportunity. Whether you’re in perimenopause or beyond, this is your time to deepen the care you give to yourself. 

Warmly,

Daron Hope
Founder + Formulator, EarthTonics

P.S. It’s Menopause Awareness Month—take a moment to check in with your body. Knowledge is power, and you are your best advocate. Check out Deborah Maragopoulos' book here.

If you'd like to Ask Daron, email your question to care@earthtonicsskincare.com

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