Feeling the shift? Let’s talk Perimenopause.
Perimenopause isn’t a whisper in the background – it’s a full-blown change that can hit you when you least expect it. Hot flushes mid-meeting? Brain fog when your diary is packed? Skin suddenly behaving like a teenager’s? You’re not imagining it - and you’re absolutely not alone!
At SAIRA, we believe the more we talk about this, the less women will feel brushed aside. We’re shining a spotlight on perimenopause, menopause and post-menopause: the real symptoms, the real impact, and, most importantly, the rituals and solutions that can help you feel like yourself again.
Ready to talk all things Perimenopause? Let’s dive deeper…
What is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the transition phase before menopause. It often begins in your 40s (though it can start earlier) and is driven by hormonal shifts. Oestrogen and progesterone fluctuate wildly, while FSH gradually climbs as your ovaries become less responsive.
This hormonal dance explains why symptoms can feel unpredictable: one week you’re fine, the next you wake up drenched at 3am and find yourself snapping at the dog! Common symptoms include:
- Hot flushes and night sweats
- Mood changes and irritability
- Sleep disturbances
- Irregular or heavy cycles
- Brain fog and low concentration
- Vaginal dryness and changes in libido
- And of course — skin changes.
Saira’s Story
Here’s the heart-to-heart I wish someone had had with me sooner.
When perimenopause hit, I didn’t recognise myself. My skin turned itchy and dry, hot flushes left me exhausted, and mood swings came crashing in alongside night sweats, sadness, and overwhelm. I felt like I’d aged overnight!
Even getting dressed sometimes felt like a marathon. I started saying no to plans, pulling back from the things I loved, because I just didn’t feel like me anymore.
Eventually, I went to my GP and started HRT. It was the best decision I made. My energy came back, my skin settled, and I felt like myself again.
If any of this sounds familiar - please know you are not alone. You are not “too much.” Your body is asking for support, and support exists.
Your Skin in Perimenopause
And of course, perimenopause doesn’t stop at mood swings or sleep struggles - it shows up in your skin too. After all, your skin is your body’s biggest organ, and the one that faces the world every day.
With declining oestrogen, skin loses hydration, elasticity, and barrier strength. That means more dryness, more itching, and more sensitivity. Collagen production dips too, leading to fine lines, dullness, and a loss of firmness.
Surprise breakouts? Yes, they can happen as hormones fluctuate too – resulting in a double whammy of teenage-style blemishes alongside dry patches.
Data backs this up too. A Newson Health survey found that 64% of women reported dry skin, 56% experienced itching, and around 30% had unexpected breakouts. In other words: your skin is telling the story of what’s going on inside.
The Solution: Meet the Perimenopause Set
To support you through this shift, we’ve curated the Perimenopause Set – a simple three-step ritual designed to hydrate, strengthen, and restore balance without overwhelming your skin.
✨ Step 1: Nourishing Cleansing Oil
- Why it’s essential: Gently removes makeup, SPF, and impurities without stripping. Infused with nutrient-rich plant oils that replenish instead of deplete.
- How it helps: Perimenopausal skin is more vulnerable to dryness and barrier damage. This cleanser removes the day while leaving skin soft, comfortable, and resilient.
✨ Step 2: Hyaluronic Boosting Drops
- Why it’s essential: Multi-molecular hyaluronic acid penetrates at different levels of the skin for long-lasting hydration. Instantly plumps and smooths.
- How it helps: Dehydration is one of the biggest complaints during perimenopause. These drops restore suppleness and comfort, boosting the performance of your moisturiser.
✨ Step 3: Rejuvenating Face Cream
- Why it’s essential: A buttery-soft cream rich in ceramides, antioxidants, and botanicals that restore moisture and repair barrier strength.
- How it helps: It locks in hydration, supports collagen, and combats environmental stress, helping to ease dryness, dullness, and loss of firmness.
👉 Discover the Perimenopause Set
But, here’s the part we’re truly passionate about: you don’t need a dozen products or harsh actives to support your skin. What you need is a simple, everyday ritual rooted in self-care.
A moment that grounds you. A practice that tells your body: this time is mine.
Even five minutes in the morning before the house wakes up, or a calming night-time ritual before bed, can help shift your energy. Skincare will never replace medical care, but it can complement it by bringing comfort, calm, and confidence back into your daily rhythm.
When to Seek Medical Support
Skincare can soothe and support, but if your symptoms are starting to disrupt your life: your sleep, mood, work, or relationships, then it’s time to seek medical advice.
Book a GP appointment if:
- Your symptoms are interfering with daily life
- You’re under 45 with possible menopausal symptoms
- You have irregular/heavy bleeding
- You notice symptoms before age 40 (possible primary ovarian insufficiency)
Many women benefit from HRT. Large evidence reviews show it’s the most effective treatment for hot flushes and night sweats, and it also helps protect bone health. In the UK, the NHS states that for most women under 60 without high-risk factors, the benefits outweigh the risks. Your GP can help individualise what’s right for you.
Menopause Month
This month, we’ll be sharing expert advice, practical tips, and community stories - because you deserve to feel supported, not sidelined.
Perimenopause isn’t easy. But you are not alone, and you do not have to simply “get on with it.” Your symptoms are real. Your experience is valid. And your skin, and your self, deserve support.
Explore the Perimenopause Set: three simple steps to hydrate, strengthen, and restore balance as your body shifts. Because caring for yourself isn’t optional. It’s essential.
And if you’re struggling right now, we see you. We’re here for you. And you’ve got hundreds of women in this community cheering you on and sending you love.
With love and strength,
Saira x
Further Reading and Support
There are some fantastic, supportive and educational resources out there for further reading and advice. We recommend checking out:
