It’s not down to your skincare routine — it’s down to your hormones.
During the menopause, oestrogen levels drop — and the skin, which has been reliable for decades, becomes drier, thinner and loses its firmness. This is neither a figment of the imagination nor a personal failing, but a biological process for which there are medical solutions.
Free AURA 3D skin analysis →CHF 0 · 60 mins · no sales pressure
What really helps ↓
Perhaps you've been there:
Your skincare routine is the same as always — but it’s not as effective as it used to be.
Your skin feels tight and dry, even though you apply moisturiser regularly.
The line along the jaw becomes softer, and the skin appears less taut.
You suddenly start getting spots on your chin — at an age when you thought you’d long since left that behind you.
You’re in your 40s or 50s and you’ve noticed that a lot has changed in a short space of time.
You want to know what really helps, rather than just accepting the excuse that „that’s just the way it is".
One hormone explains almost everything
The trigger is measurable: oestrogen. This hormone controls how much collagen the skin produces, how much water it retains, and how robust its barrier is. During the menopause, its levels drop — and with them the foundation on which the skin has functioned for decades. Studies show that women can lose up to 30% of their skin’s collagen in the first five years after the menopause; this loss follows hormonal age, not calendar age.
It often happens faster than you might think. During perimenopause, oestrogen levels fluctuate before dropping permanently — which is why the skin can change in a surprisingly short space of time. What used to work suddenly stops working because the conditions have changed.
What oestrogen does in the skin — and what its decline means
- Collagen & Density — the skin becomes thinner and loses its firmness; up to 30% less collagen in the first five years.
- Moisture & Hyaluronic Acid — the skin retains less moisture and becomes dry, often despite the use of rich moisturisers.
- barrier — it becomes more permeable and sensitive; redness and irritation increase.
- Elastin & Contour — the tension eases, and the line of the jaw softens. Find out more about skin tightening →
- Sebum & Hormone Balance — as oestrogen levels drop, androgens become relatively more dominant; this can cause spots on the chin. Find out more about acne →
The key point here is that these changes are driven by your hormone levels, not your date of birth — and that is precisely why there is something we can do about it. The skin continues to respond to the right stimuli. We cannot replace oestrogen, but we can specifically stimulate collagen production and restore the quality that is lost along with it.
Support from the outside, build from within
Hormone-sensitive skin needs two things at once: to support the skin’s condition from the outside — hydration, barrier function, radiance — and to rebuild the deep-layer structure that is lost with oestrogen. Creams alone are not enough, nor is a single treatment. It is the combination of both that makes all the difference.
A word about peptides, because there’s hardly any other topic being hyped quite so much at the moment — including for skin going through the menopause. Peptides are short protein building blocks that act as signalling molecules in the body. What’s currently trending on social media are injectable Peptides such as GHK-Cu or BPC-157, which promise regeneration and rejuvenation. The plain truth is this: none of them are approved for skin rejuvenation — even the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not authorised them, but has classified many due to safety concerns: potential immune reactions, impurities, lack of data on humans. Much of it circulates as a laboratory chemical of unknown quality. In our practice, we only apply to the skin what is approved and of assured quality — for us, this is not a matter of following trends.
However, there is a regenerative injection with a solid foundation, and that falls into a different category: Polynucleotides (PDRN/PN) — purified DNA fragments that stimulate fibroblasts and trigger regeneration. This is precisely what PolyPhil™ works with. Why inject it rather than use it as a cream? These molecules are too large to pass through the intact skin barrier; visible results in studies come from the injection, not from the serum — topical formulations barely reach the required depth. Polynucleotides are CE-certified as a medical device and are widely used in Europe and Korea, with a growing body of research on elasticity and hydration. Added to this is NCTF® with 59 active ingredients plus hyaluronic acid, also delivered where it works. This is the expert response to the peptide hype: regulated, proven, in the right place.
That leaves the question of hormones. Hormone replacement therapy is the only treatment that tackles the root cause and has been proven to improve the skin as well — more collagen, greater density. But that is a medical decision that belongs in the hands of your doctor or gynaecologist, who will take your overall health into account; it is not a skin treatment. We do not prescribe hormones. We focus on what we do best — collagen production, skin quality and hydration. The two are not mutually exclusive; on the contrary.
What you do yourself matters more than ever right now. UV protection remains the single most important factor. Strength training is doubly beneficial at this stage: it supports bones and muscles — and measurably improves the skin; in one study, skin elasticity, density and the structure of the dermis all increased. Add to that sufficient protein, sleep and stress management to counteract cortisol. This is no substitute for treatment, but it plays a part in determining how effective it is.
Hormonal skin isn’t something you just have to put up with. With a plan that combines treatment with your daily routine and adapts to your cycle, you can maintain a lot — and even turn things around.
Structure and quality — both together
Skin affected by hormonal changes requires a two-pronged approach: restoring lost structure and improving skin quality. This is how the treatments are structured.
Restore structure and density
Volnewmer®
Restores volume and firmness where oestrogen has caused a loss; promotes deep collagen production, usually in a single session.
Find out more →Vivace® RF Microneedling
Firms the skin and improves its texture — ideal if it has become thinner and less firm.
Find out more →Skin quality, hydration & regeneration
HydraFacial™
Deep cleansing and moisturising for dry, irritated hormonal skin; also suitable for maintenance.
Find out more →Fillmed NCTF® 135HA
59 active ingredients plus hyaluronic acid deep within the skin, which the skin now produces less of on its own.
Find out more →PolyPhil™
Polynucleotides support fibroblasts and regeneration; the in-clinic response to the peptide trend.
Find out more →BioRePeel®
Gentle exfoliation to combat dullness and rough texture, without visible flaking.
Find out more →PRX-T33®
Collagen stimulation without needles and with no downtime, even for sensitive skin.
Find out more →In between series Dermadrop TDA® (needle-free drug delivery) the moisture at the top.
Always included
Included in every facial treatment: Dermalux™ LED — Red light stimulates fibroblasts and promotes collagen production.
The free AURA 3D skin analysis will show you which blend is right for your current phase. If hormonal breakouts are the main issue, it’s worth taking a look at Acne & blemished skin →; are you interested in retirement planning in general, or Pre-ageing →.
Free AURA 3D skin analysis →Three steps to calmer skin
AURA 3D Skin Analysis + Medical History
We measure your skin’s density, moisture levels and barrier function in 3D and match them to your current skin condition. This forms the basis of your personalised plan — for both treatment and everyday care. CHF 0, with no pressure to buy.
Set up & supply
We restore structure and firmness and provide the skin with what it is now less able to produce itself — at the right pace, not all at once.
Hold & adjust
With regular maintenance, UV protection and the right routine, the results will last; we’ll adapt the plan as your situation changes.
Hormonal skin is a medical condition, not a cosmetic flaw.
We take it seriously
The changes that come with the menopause aren’t something you just have to put up with — there’s a reason for them, and there are answers.
Regulated rather than hyped
We use approved, CE-certified treatments, not whatever happens to be the latest fad.
Honest about borders
We’ll tell you when something should be left to your doctor — such as hormone therapy — and when treatment is the right course of action.
You might be wondering
Why does my skin change so suddenly during the menopause?
Because a single hormone plays a major role: oestrogen. It regulates how much collagen the skin produces, how much water it retains, and how robust its barrier is. When oestrogen levels drop, the very foundation on which the skin has functioned for decades changes. Studies show that women can lose up to 30% of their skin’s collagen in the first five years after the menopause — and this loss follows hormonal age, not calendar age. That is why it often happens faster than one might expect.
Source: Brincat MP et al., Estrogens and the skin. Climacteric. 2005;8(2):110–123.
What exactly does oestrogen deficiency do to the skin?
Several things at once. As oestrogen levels decline, collagen and skin density decrease, and the skin becomes thinner and less firm. It retains less moisture and becomes drier, the skin barrier becomes more permeable and sensitive, and wound healing slows down. A review article describes precisely this pattern — dryness, atrophy, fine lines and poorer healing — as a consequence of oestrogen deficiency. This is not a question of skincare, but a structural issue.
What's all the fuss about injectable peptides?
Little is certain. Peptides are signalling proteins, and injectable variants such as GHK-Cu or BPC-157 are currently being heavily promoted. However, none of them are approved for skin rejuvenation — even the FDA has not authorised them, but has classified many due to safety concerns: potential immune reactions, contamination and a lack of data on humans. A large proportion circulates as laboratory chemicals of unknown origin and quality. We do not inject anything whose safety and dosage have not been proven.
Why do you inject polynucleotides instead of recommending a peptide cream?
This is because the active ingredients need to reach the place where they are intended to work — the dermis. Polynucleotides (PDRN/PN) are large molecules and can barely penetrate the intact skin barrier; whether an active ingredient is best applied topically or by injection depends directly on its molecular size. Accordingly, visible results in studies come from injections, not from serums. That is why PolyPhil™ is administered as an injection — and as an approved, CE-certified medical device, not as a grey-market substance.
How reliable is the research on polynucleotides really?
Growing, but to be honest, still in its infancy. A systematic review from 2025 summarises the studies on polynucleotides in aesthetic medicine and notes improvements in skin elasticity, hydration and texture with good tolerability — but at the same time points to small sample sizes and varying study quality. We do not market this as a miracle cure, but as a well-founded building block that has proven its worth in practice.
Should I take hormones (HRT) — will that help my skin?
It has been proven to benefit the skin: oestrogen replacement therapy is the only treatment that tackles the root cause and can restore collagen and skin density. But this is a medical decision that takes your overall health into account and should be made by your GP or gynaecologist — not at a skin clinic. We do not prescribe hormones. We focus on collagen production, skin quality and hydration, and this can be effectively combined with medically supervised hormone therapy.
Source: Brincat MP et al., Estrogens and the skin. Climacteric. 2005;8(2):110–123.
I’ve suddenly started getting spots on my chin — could it be down to hormones?
Yes, that’s typical. When oestrogen levels drop, the balance shifts in favour of androgens — and these relatively stronger androgens can trigger breakouts on the chin and jawline, often for the first time since adolescence. The cause is different from that of teenage acne, which is why a different approach is needed. Read more at Acne & blemished skin →.
Does strength training really help with skin changes?
More than you might think — and doubly beneficial at this stage of life. In one study, strength training in women improved skin elasticity and the structure of the dermis, increased skin thickness and reduced inflammatory markers in the blood. Together with bone and muscle protection, this is a strong argument, particularly around the time of the menopause. It is no substitute for treatment, but it does play a part in determining how effective it is.
How much does treatment for hormonal skin conditions cost?
It depends on the plan — hormonal skin is treated with a combination of structural and quality treatments plus maintenance, not with a single appointment. You can find an overview of the treatments on our Prices page →. Not ready for an on-site analysis yet? Our Skin Quiz → gives you a quick overview in five minutes.
You don't have to put up with it.
There’s a reason for hormonal skin — and there’s a medical solution. The AURA 3D skin analysis will show you where to focus your efforts and which plan is right for your stage. It’s free, with no pressure to buy.
Free AURA 3D skin analysis →CHF 0 · 60 mins · Konradstrasse 1, 8005 Zurich Central Station
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„Aleksandra was very professional, warm and friendly. She gave me excellent advice on what I needed, even though I’d booked a completely different treatment. All the risks and considerations were clearly explained, and I never felt like I was being pressured into anything. A great consultation… I’ve found my new go-to place for treatments.'
„A huge thank you to Alex for her advice. Her expertise and her calm, professional manner won me over straight away. She takes her time, tailors her advice to individual needs and gives fantastic tips for a home skincare routine. It’s exactly the kind of consultation you’d hope for – knowledgeable, warm and genuine."
„I really appreciate that there’s no pressure to buy extra services or products – just genuine, high-quality care. After nearly a year of visiting Alestetics, I’ve had nothing but positive experiences. Alex has been professional, kind and attentive throughout my visits. I highly recommend them!"
„I love coming here; it always feels like I’m going to a spa. They don’t try to sell me anything and are very open about what the treatments can (and cannot) do for me. They take health and wellbeing very seriously and always make sure I know how to look after myself outside the clinic as well."
„Alex is amazing! She listens to what the customer needs and explains the process. She is very knowledgeable and also makes recommendations. For me, her fluency in English is extremely helpful when we communicate."
„I had a Vivace treatment combined with PRX-T33. The appointment went smoothly; the staff were very professional and efficient. The clinic is close to HB and centrally located. Alexandra was very nice and friendly. I’ll definitely be coming back!"
„I had RF microneedling and EXILIS treatments on my stomach at Alestetics and am extremely pleased with the results. In fact, the results are much more noticeable than I had expected. Katia is highly professional, very attentive and incredibly warm. I highly recommend her!"
„I spent a long time looking for the right salon for me and I’m absolutely delighted that I chose alestetics®. The salon is beautiful, and everything is spotlessly clean and hygienic. Thanks to the team’s caring, friendly and professional manner, I felt very comfortable and safe throughout the entire treatment."
„I’ve been to Alestetics several times now. Before the treatment, they carried out an Aura skin analysis, during which they explained my skin condition to me in great detail — it was incredibly professional and transparent. Katia, Antonia and Alex are incredibly caring, knowledgeable and professional. You never feel like 'just another customer'."
„Today I had my first laser treatment (4 areas) with Katia and I felt completely at ease. She was particularly sensitive to my needs, as I can be a bit sensitive to pain at times. Her friendly manner made the treatment a really pleasant experience!"
„Katia is simply brilliant at her job! I’ve now had my third laser treatment. As I’m quite sensitive to pain, I really appreciate the fact that Katia always distracts me with a friendly chat. I feel very well looked after."
„I had a wonderful experience at the aesthetics clinic with Katia. She took the time to listen to my concerns, explained everything clearly, and made sure I felt confident throughout. I would highly recommend Katia for high-quality and truly personalised treatment."
„Review of the BTL Exilis treatment. I’m an active man and work out regularly, but despite my best efforts, I couldn’t get rid of that stubborn belly fat. I noticed a difference after just the first treatment. After several sessions, the difference was clearly visible."
„All the treatments here are sensational. This wellness haven truly lives up to its reputation. It’s centrally located — right next to Zurich main station — and the atmosphere at the spa is serene and calm. Every visit to Alestetics is my monthly treat and feels like a mini-break."
„I’ve had several Endospheres treatments at alestetics. Alex and Katia are very professional, but also very friendly and caring. They’ve always taken my needs and wishes into account (avoiding the tummy after pregnancy). I can’t recommend them highly enough!"
„I had five EXILIS treatments with Katia at alestetics®. The service was excellent – Katia is very professional and warm, and explains everything in detail. You feel at ease with her straight away. I’d definitely recommend her!"
„I feel understood, and they're absolutely lovely and professional!!"
„I had an excellent experience with the Icoone treatment. Antonia was simply fantastic – very professional, warm and incredibly friendly. She took plenty of time and made sure I felt comfortable throughout the entire treatment."
„I visit Alestetics regularly for Hydrafacial and microneedling treatments. The team are really friendly and flexible. The location is perfect, and the studio is clean and comfortable. After three treatments, my skin feels much clearer and my pores are slightly smaller."
„I feel completely at ease with Alex and her team! From the welcome to the treatments, the hygiene and the atmosphere: everything is simply always perfect. I originally came across Alestetics because of their laser treatments, but now I also go there for my facials."
„The treatments at Alestetics have worked wonders on my sensitive skin. With Katia, you’re in absolutely professional hands!"
„I'm absolutely delighted to have found this clinic in Zurich where, after just four sessions, I've seen amazing results! The girl who looks after me, Katia, is so lovely; she put me at ease right from the start and is incredibly professional!"
„My favourite salon in Zh! Top-notch service, lovely welcome tea, friendly staff, helpful consultations, and I left feeling happy and glowing, looking gorgeous after my treatments. Thanks Katia, Alexandra, and the Alestetics team – one love!"
„At first, I was really impressed by the Endospheres therapy. But the Icoone treatment has surpassed everything: it massages the skin gently and painlessly from head to toe. I started the treatments less for firmer skin and more for my health. The team are like best friends to me."
„Very friendly and professional staff, who take the time to carry out a skin analysis and offer valuable advice! I highly recommend it. It was a pleasure to have the AURA 3D skin analysis and to discuss my daily skincare routine."
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