Why Your Skin Changes During Perimenopause with Special Guest Susan Campbell

Jun 10, 20261h 9m

Summary

In this episode of Hump Day Hormones, host Dr. Jill Jennings sits down with Susan Campbell, founder of the skincare line Phosis, to discuss the often-overlooked skin changes that occur during perimenopause and menopause. As estrogen levels decline, many women experience sudden dryness, sensitivity, and a loss of firmness, symptoms that are frequently misunderstood or mismanaged. The conversation explores the science of aging skin, emphasizing the crucial role of the skin barrier. Campbell explains how traditional anti-aging products often use harsh, aggressive ingredients that can further damage a weakened barrier, essentially adding fuel to the fire. Instead, she advocates for a restorative approach that prioritizes healthy barrier function over temporary fixes. Beyond the science, Campbell shares her personal journey as an entrepreneur, highlighting the challenges of developing clean, plant-based products specifically for menopausal skin. She underscores the importance of clinical testing, distinguishing between consumer perception studies and rigorous, IRB-reviewed clinical trials. By focusing on the structural needs of the skin—such as the replenishment of ceramides—this episode provides listeners with a foundational understanding of how to care for their skin during this significant hormonal transition, encouraging women to embrace their changing needs with evidence-based solutions.

Updated Jun 25, 2026

Health & Wellness Women's Health Dermatology Menopause Business Entrepreneurship Society & Culture Aging

Topics

Entrepreneurial Lessons and Final Thoughts

About This Episode

“Why does my skin suddenly feel dry, thin, sensitive, and impossible to manage?” “Is it aging... or is it my hormones?” This week we're joined by Susan Campbell, founder and CEO of Phosis Skincare, an award winning skincare brand created specifically for perimenopausal and menopausal women. Susan's innovative approach to skincare earned national recognition when Phosis was selected by Oprah Daily's Menopause O Awards, making her one of the leading voices in this rapidly growing space. Many women notice changes in their skin long before they recognize other symptoms of perimenopause. Dryness, loss of firmness, increased sensitivity, and stubborn changes in skin texture are often some of the earliest signs that hormones are shifting. In this episode, we break down: • What actually happens to skin during perimenopause and menopause • How declining estrogen impacts collagen, hydration, elasticity, and skin barrier function • Why skin often becomes noticeably drier after 40 • The surprising connection between hormones and skin health • How much collagen women lose during and after menopause • Which skincare ingredients become more important during midlife • Common misconceptions women have about aging skin • Where skincare fits alongside hormones, supplements, and aesthetic treatments • Why caring for menopausal skin requires a different approach Susan also shares her incredible entrepreneurial journey, including: • How she identified a major gap in the skincare industry • The inspiration behind creating Phosis • What it took to build a skincare company from the ground up • The story behind being selected for Oprah Daily's Menopause O Awards • What happened when Oprah's team discovered Phosis • A behind the scenes look at a potential Shark Tank opportunity • Advice for anyone sitting on a business idea they've been afraid to pursue This conversation is about more than skincare. It's about understanding that the changes women experience during perimenopause and menopause are real, biologically driven, and deserving of solutions designed specifically for them. Because healthy aging isn't about chasing youth. It's about supporting your body through every stage of life. Share this with the woman who's wondering why her skincare routine suddenly stopped working.

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Summary

In this episode of Hump Day Hormones, hosts Dr. Jill Jennings and Courtney Span host a comprehensive "GLP-1 Summer School" to address the most frequent questions they receive in their clinical practice regarding these trending medications. As the popularity of GLP-1 agonists—such as semaglutide and tirzepatide—continues to grow, the hosts aim to cut through the noise and misinformation surrounding their use for weight loss and metabolic health. The discussion explores the mechanism behind GLP-1s, explaining how these peptides mimic natural hormones to regulate insulin, slow gastric emptying, and increase satiety. Beyond simple weight loss, the hosts discuss the broader clinical implications of these medications, including their potential benefits for heart health, chronic kidney disease, fatty liver, and even emerging research into cognitive decline and addictive behaviors. The conversation emphasizes that while GLP-1s are powerful tools, they should be integrated into a foundation of healthy habits, specifically protein intake and resistance training, to prevent the loss of lean muscle mass. The episode concludes with a balanced look at the realities of long-term use, the potential for weight regain upon discontinuation, and the importance of finding a personalized, sustainable approach under professional guidance.

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