Symptoms
Can menopause make my skin itchy?
Short answer
It can coincide with itch through dryness and sensitivity, but new or intense itch should not automatically be attributed to menopause.
Full answer
Can menopause make my skin itchy?
Drier skin can make nerve endings feel more reactive, and some people notice more itch around the menopause transition. Scratching then damages the barrier further, which can create a cycle of itch and irritation.
Itch can also come from eczema, contact dermatitis, infection, medicines, systemic illness, or another skin condition. Look for a rash, scale, swelling, blisters, or a clear relationship with a product.
- Pause recently added fragranced products.
- Keep nails short and avoid vigorous scratching.
- Arrange medical advice for widespread, severe, nocturnal, or unexplained itch.