Galderma Prioritizes Menopause-Related Skin Health with New Data at IMCAS 2026

Galderma has spotlighted menopause-related skin changes as an emerging focus in aesthetic dermatology, presenting new global survey data and outlining a commitment to greater clinical trial inclusivity at the IMCAS 2026 World Congress in Paris, France.¹ The initiative combines epidemiologic insight, education, and research strategy, with the company announcing that menopausal status will now be incorporated into all of its injectable aesthetics clinical trials.

Global Survey Insights

The findings come from a survey of more than 4,300 peri- and post-menopausal women aged 45 to 60 across 9 countries spanning 5 continents. Participants either had undergone or were open to aesthetic treatments. Results revealed a substantial knowledge gap: more than half of respondents reported learning about the effects of menopause on the skin only by personally experiencing them, most commonly in their 40s. A sizable proportion indicated they would have preferred to receive this information earlier, in their 30s, and over half described themselves as neutral or dissatisfied with their level of knowledge on the topic.

“As the pure-play dermatology category leader, we are committed to driving meaningful change for every skin story. Through this global survey, close collaboration with our network of experts and ensuring that menopausal status is included in all our clinical trials moving forward, we aim to elevate awareness and advance aesthetic solutions, backed by robust evidence, for women navigating this important life stage,” Bill Andriopoulos, PhD, Head of Global Medical Affairs at Galderma, said in the press release.¹

Clinical Manifestations and Biological Shifts

Clinically, respondents reported experiencing an average of 3 menopause-associated skin changes affecting both the face and body. The most frequently cited facial concerns were lines and wrinkles (59%), loss of firmness and elasticity (58%), increased dryness (56%), and duller skin tone (40%). Similar patterns were noted on the body, particularly for dryness (58%) and reduced firmness (54%). Overall, women rated the severity of these changes at 6 out of 10, suggesting a moderate but meaningful burden. These changes are consistent with known biologic effects of declining estrogen levels during peri- and post-menopause.

“Menopause requires a different aesthetic mindset. We’re not just chasing lines and volume loss, we’re supporting the entire environment that ultimately causes the line and the wrinkle, and the parts of the whole that contribute to the changes seen, such as collagen depletion, hydration and barrier function,” Sabrina Fabi, MD, board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in San Diego, California, said to Dermatology Times. “That’s why earlier intervention and smart treatment regimens matter. When clinicians understand the biological shifts at play, treatments can be tailored to support skin quality and confidence through the transition, rather than reacting after changes have already accelerated. Having data like this survey helps clinicians open a more informed, empathetic conversation much earlier.”

Beyond physical manifestations, the survey highlights psychosocial impact. A majority of women agreed that menopause-related skin changes negatively influenced self-perception: 60% reported feeling less attractive, 57% more anxious, 55% less confident, and nearly half less inclined to socialize.

Interest in Aesthetic Interventions

When evaluating interventions used to address menopause-related effects—including lifestyle modifications, supplements, and traditional approaches—respondents reported the highest satisfaction with aesthetic treatments. Interest in future procedures was also notable. Approximately 47% would consider anti-wrinkle treatments, 41% hyaluronic acid–based treatments, 39% hyaluronic acid skin quality treatments, and 30% biostimulators. Currently, however, aesthetic interventions are used more often reactively (49%) than preventively (26%), likely reflecting delayed awareness. Over 60% of women stated they would have acted differently had they understood earlier how menopause affects the skin.

“Aesthetic treatments are important tools in addressing and preventing the varied menopause-related skin changes women can experience. Hyaluronic acid treatments can help to correct skin changes through enhanced hydration and contour, whereas biostimulators can help to regenerate skin health from the inside by boosting collagen and elastin to improve firmness and radiance. This survey is an important step forward in understanding the impact of menopause-related skin changes and the role that aesthetic solutions can play for both prevention and treatment,” Doris Day, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist at Day Cosmetic, Laser, and Comprehensive Dermatology in New York, New York, and Clinical Professor of Dermatology at the New York University Langone Medical Center, said in a statement.¹

A Future Rooted in Data

In response, Galderma emphasized education and professional dialogue, hosting a dedicated IMCAS symposium, “Menopause in the Mirror: Challenges, Science and Aesthetic Solutions,” featuring scientific discussion and live demonstrations. Central to the company’s strategy is its decision to systematically record menopausal status in future injectable aesthetics trials. This approach aims to generate more granular evidence on treatment performance, safety, and patient-reported outcomes in this hormonally distinct population.

“For too long, the changes associated with menopause have been underdiscussed despite affecting half the population. Skin is one of the most visible and emotionally impactful areas where these changes show up. What we’re aiming to do is close this gap with data, dialogue, and evidence-based innovation. By bringing robust science into this conversation, we can help normalize menopause in the consulting room and support earlier, and more open, informed decision making between women and their healthcare professionals.” Anne-Cécile Chevrier, Global Head of Injectable Aesthetics at Galderma, told Dermatology Times.

Reference

1. Galderma tackles menopause-related skin changes with global survey and clinical trial inclusivity. News release. Galderma. Published January 30, 2026. Accessed January 30, 2026. https://www.galderma.com/news/galderma-tackles-menopause-related-skin-changes