Best Anti-Aging Skincare for Midlife Women: Estrogen, Retinol & More
Explore science-backed strategies for midlife skin health
Best Anti-Aging Skincare for Midlife Women: Estrogen, Retinol & More
Explore science-backed strategies for midlife skin health
Skincare after 40 and 50 often feels confusing, especially with so many “miracle” anti-aging products on the market. For women in perimenopause and menopause, skin changes like dryness, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity are common. So what actually works? In a recent episode of Menopause Rescue, Dr. Polly Watson and nurse practitioner Kate Willis break down evidence-based strategies for healthier, more resilient skin during menopause.
“We want to help people feel comfortable in the skin they’re in.“
They explore how topical estrogens like estradiol and estriol can improve hydration, elasticity, and collagen without raising systemic hormone levels. Kate also highlights the proven benefits of retinol for aging skin, vitamin C serum for brightening and antioxidant protection, and hyaluronic acid for hydration and plumpness. Sunscreen, especially mineral formulations, remains a non-negotiable step to protect against sun damage and melasma.
Watch The Conversation!
Key Takeaways:
- Topical estrogen creams can improve hydration, elasticity, and collagen without raising systemic hormone levels
- Vitamin C serums brighten skin, fight sun damage, and work best when stabilized with the right formulation
- Consistency is key—results from anti-aging skincare often take six months to a year
Skincare after 40 and 50 often feels confusing, especially with so many “miracle” anti-aging products on the market. For women in perimenopause and menopause, skin changes like dryness, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity are common. So what actually works? In a recent episode of Menopause Rescue, Dr. Polly Watson and nurse practitioner Kate Willis break down evidence-based strategies for healthier, more resilient skin during menopause.
“We want to help people feel comfortable in the skin they’re in.“
They explore how topical estrogens like estradiol and estriol can improve hydration, elasticity, and collagen without raising systemic hormone levels. Kate also highlights the proven benefits of retinol for aging skin, vitamin C serum for brightening and antioxidant protection, and hyaluronic acid for hydration and plumpness. Sunscreen, especially mineral formulations, remains a non-negotiable step to protect against sun damage and melasma.
The takeaway? Skincare is about consistency, personalization, and patience. Results come from building a balanced routine—not chasing quick fixes. With the right approach, midlife skin can stay healthy, vibrant, and strong for years to come.
Quotes:
- “We’re not trying to make everyone look like Barbie. We want to help people feel comfortable in the skin they’re in.” – Dr. Polly Watson
- “Consistency is key. Skincare is not a six-month project — it’s daily maintenance for the long haul.” – Kate Willis NP-C
- “Both estradiol and estriol creams showed improvements in wrinkles, elasticity, collagen, and hydration — without changing systemic hormone levels.” – Kate Willis NP-C
Resources:
Resources: https://hormonewellnessmd.com/podcast-resources
Disclaimer: https://hormonewellnessmd.com/podcast#Disclaimer
Meet the host!
Dr. Polly Watson is a board certified OBGYN who has additional training in menopausal medicine, sexual medicine and functional medicine.
She looks forward to sharing her knowledge with you to help find a solution to address the imbalance in your system and restore your health.
In 2019 I left my job as an employed physician with a large organization and started Hormone Wellness MD. I started with no staff working out of a single room. Since then, my staff has grown to a team of 5 and we’ve helped over 1,100 people on their health journey.
Meet the Guest Speaker!
Kate Willis, NP-C, IFMCP is a virtual nurse practitioner for Hormone Wellness MD. She’s been working in women’s health for 15 years in the field of gynecologic oncology and sexual wellness.
In 2021, Kate received her certification through the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM), and is thankful for such solid and evidence-based training. She uses it daily in her care for patients as she works to address the root cause of disease and dysfunction in the body. As of 2024, she is also a Menopause Society Certified nurse practitioner who is ready to help with your perimenopause and menopause questions. Click here to become a patient!
I love working with women because I think women change the world.
Meet the host!
Dr. Polly Watson is a board certified OBGYN who has additional training in menopausal medicine, sexual medicine and functional medicine.
She looks forward to sharing her knowledge with you to help find a solution to address the imbalance in your system and restore your health.
In 2019 I left my job as an employed physician with a large organization and started Hormone Wellness MD. I started with no staff working out of a single room. Since then, my staff has grown to a team of 5 and we’ve helped over 1,100 people on their health journey.
Meet the Guest!
Kate Willis, NP-C, IFMCP is a virtual nurse practitioner for Hormone Wellness MD. She’s been working in women’s health for 15 years in the field of gynecologic oncology and sexual wellness.
In 2021, Kate received her certification through the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM), and is thankful for such solid and evidence-based training. She uses it daily in her care for patients as she works to address the root cause of disease and dysfunction in the body. As of 2024, she is also a Menopause Society Certified nurse practitioner who is ready to help with your perimenopause and menopause questions. Click here to become a patient!
I love working with women because I think women change the world.
