Has your skin suddenly become dry, itchy, sensitive — or started sagging — and you're wondering what changed?

In this episode of Hot & Healthy Menopause, we go beneath the surface to understand what's really happening to your skin during perimenopause and menopause.

This is Part 1 of a 2-part series where I explain the science behind midlife skin changes — so you can stop guessing, stop wasting money on gimmicks, and start supporting your skin in a way that actually works.

As your Menopause Coach, I'll guide you through the real reasons your skin feels different — and why this stage of life requires a completely different approach.

💡 In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• Why estrogen decline affects collagen, elastin, and skin hydration
• What happens inside your epidermis and dermis during menopause
• The role of fibroblasts (your collagen-producing cells)
• Why your skin becomes drier, thinner, and slower to heal
• What sebum is — and why you suddenly have less of it
• How vasomotor symptoms (like hot flushes) impact your skin
• What the relative androgen effect means for adult acne and hair growth
• Why skin sensitivity changes (itching, tingling, or numbness)
• How fat redistribution (adipose changes) affects how your skin looks
• The truth about your 28-day skin renewal cycle — and how to use it to your advantage

✨ Why This Matters

Your skin is not just about appearance — it's a reflection of your hormones, your health, and your internal environment.

When you understand what's happening, you can stop fighting your body — and start working with it.

🎧 Listen Next

Make sure you tune into Part 2, where we dive into: ✔ Cellulite explained (and why 80–90% of women have it) ✔ Why skin sagging becomes more visible in menopause ✔ The role of fascia, muscle, and bone in skin firmness ✔ Gut health, omega balance, and inside-out skin support ✔ What actually works — and what's just marketing

💛 Work With Me

If you're ready to feel confident in your skin again, I can help you create a personalised, holistic plan as your Menopause Coach.

👉 nicolevanhattem.com

🔔 Follow & Share

If this episode helped you understand your skin in a new way, follow Hot & Healthy Menopause and share it with another woman who needs to hear this.