Dealing with Hair, Skin And Brain Fog in Perimenopause

If you’re in your 40s or 50s and suddenly noticing dry skin, thinning hair, or brain fog, you’re not imagining it.

And no, I promise, you’re not “losing your mind.”

You’re likely experiencing perimenopause.

I remember thinking, When did this start happening? My skin felt different. Drier. A little itchy. My hair wasn't quite as full. Often thin and kinda falling out.

And ugh, the little "chin hair" that would show up at the most annoying moments.

I wanted to know if some of the issues I was dealing with were due to physical changes that come with perimenopause, my own stubbornness, or ... could I just blame my husband? (just kidding).

And then there were the moments where I’d walk into a room and completely forget why I was there.

No one really prepares you for this stage. But once you understand what’s happening, it all starts to make sense.

What Happens to Your Body During Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the phase leading up to menopause, and it can start years before your cycle actually stops. My body seems to fluctuate and "tease" me these past few years (I'm 54 when I'm writing this). Last year, my menstrual cycles stopped for 4 months - I was almost halfway there when they suddenly returned with all the fervor and regularity of my cycles when I was in my 20's.

Here's what I learned: during this time, your estrogen levels begin to fluctuate and gradually decline.

That one shift affects a lot more than most of us realize.

Estrogen plays a role in:

• Skin hydration and elasticity
• Collagen production
• Hair growth cycles
• Even cognitive function

So when estrogen drops, your body responds in ways that can feel… surprising (and frustrating!)

By the way, I have found that having my blood work done yearly helps a lot! Read about my lab work results and experience with Function Health here. 

Perimenopause Hair Loss: Why It Happens

If your ponytail feels thinner or you’re noticing more hair in your brush, there’s a reason.

Lower estrogen levels can:

• Shorten the hair growth phase
• Lead to more shedding
• Make hair feel finer or weaker

At the same time, androgens (male hormones) can become more noticeable, which may contribute to thinning, especially around the crown.

It’s subtle at first. Then one day you realize that it’s not just a bad hair day.

Why Your Skin Feels Dry and Itchy During Perimenopause

This is where a lot of women feel it first.

Your skin may suddenly feel:

• Dry (even if it never used to)
• Tight or less elastic
• Itchy, especially at night
• More sensitive than before

Here’s why:

As estrogen decreases, your skin produces less oil and loses moisture more easily. On top of that, collagen production slows down, which affects the skin’s structure and resilience.

The result is that skin that just doesn’t bounce back the way it used to.

Brain Fog and Memory Changes

Then there’s the mental side of it.

You might notice:

• Forgetting words mid-sentence
• Walking into a room and blanking
• Feeling less focused than usual

This is often called “brain fog,” and yes, it’s a real part of perimenopause for many women.

Hormonal shifts can impact neurotransmitters, which affect memory and clarity.

It doesn’t mean something is wrong; it means your body is adjusting.

What Helps Dry, Itchy Skin During Perimenopause

This is the part that matters most: what you can actually do about it.

When your skin is losing moisture, the goal isn’t just adding hydration; it’s protecting what moisture you still have.

These actions can make a big difference:

• Avoid long, hot showers (they strip natural oils)
• Use gentle, simple-ingredient products
• Apply nourishing ingredients right after bathing
• Focus on products that help support your skin barrier

This is where I started rethinking what I was using on my own skin.

Why Barrier Protection Matters More Than Ever

During perimenopause, your skin needs more than a light lotion.

It needs protection.

Products that create a barrier, especially ones made with ingredients like beeswax and natural oils that help seal in moisture and shield your skin from further dryness.

This is why I’ve always leaned toward simple, concentrated formulas.

Instead of adding more water (which evaporates), you’re helping your skin hold onto what it already has.

A Simple Approach to Supporting Your Skin

If your skin is suddenly drier than it’s ever been, you’re not alone. You definitely don’t need a complicated routine.

Start with:

• Fewer products
• More nourishing ingredients
• Consistency over complexity

If you’re looking for something designed specifically for dry, struggling skin, you can take a look here:
👉 https://store.hardlotion.com/products/beesilk-bar

Or explore all options here:
👉 https://store.hardlotion.com/collections/all-products

For aging skin, try these instead of the usual store-bought products:

👉 https://store.hardlotion.com/collections/face-hair-lips

FAQ: Perimenopause Skin and Hair Changes

Why does perimenopause cause dry skin?

Declining estrogen reduces oil production and moisture retention, leading to dryness and irritation.

Can menopause cause itchy skin?

Yes, many women experience itching due to dryness and changes in skin sensitivity.

Is hair loss normal during perimenopause?

It can be. Hormonal shifts may cause increased shedding and thinner hair growth.

What helps dry skin during menopause?

Gentle care, avoiding harsh products, and using barrier-supporting moisturizers can make a noticeable difference.

You’re Not Losing Your Mind

If any of this sounds familiar, take a breath.

This isn’t random.
This isn’t you doing something wrong.

It’s a natural transition your body is moving through.

And once you understand it, you can start supporting your skin—and yourself—in a way that actually works.

Here's one more pro-tip:

Do this: Slay a Goal.

Do something hard.   When I was approaching 50, I had two goals: join a fitness class and join Toastmasters. I started the first and have been actively attending the 2x a week fitness classes ever since.  It took me three more years to join Toastmasters (public speaking club) but when I did, I've loved it and haven't looked back. 

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