With the assistance of professional dermatologists, we’ve broken it down for you to explain what to anticipate from each step.
How else can your skin alter during your cycle? We all know that blemishes may often suggest that you are about to start your period. You may see slight variations in oil production or dry patches during the course of the month as estrogen and progesterone levels increase and decrease. Your hormones are controlled by the pill, preventing ovulation. Changes in the skin may be less noticeable when there is less testosterone in the body to cause blemishes, but they may still follow the same pattern.
The four stages of your menstrual cycle—menstrual, follicular, ovulation, and luteal—all have a distinct effect on your skin. This makes managing skincare unexpected and challenging. With the assistance of professional dermatologists, we’ve broken it down for you to explain what to anticipate from each step.
Phase of menstruation: Days 1–7
You presumably already know this, but if not, no big deal. When you’re genuinely “on your period,” that is, bleeding, your uterine wall is shedding. Because the egg hasn’t been fertilized and so doesn’t need all the hormones that have been released in preparation for pregnancy, the levels of both estrogen and progesterone are low at this period.
What connection does this elementary scientific lesson have to your skin? Well, when both of these hormones are low, your ability to produce oil and maintain the skin’s natural barrier is also compromised, leading to increased sensitivity and dehydration. This calls for heavier creams, face oils, and moisturizing serums in your skincare regimen to fully saturate the skin with moisture. While your skin is more prone to irritation, redness, and drying out, reduce or eliminate the use of harsh active ingredients and exfoliators. You most certainly don’t want to strip it any farther!
Days 7–14 of the Follicular Phase
The follicular phase, or hormonal sweet spot, starts after your menstruation is over. Because the body is getting ready for ovulation and wants to get pregnant, it begins releasing more estrogen. Additionally, since estrogen aids in the creation of collagen, your skin will be moisturized, plump, and tranquil throughout this period. Dryness is reduced by a more balanced low oil production from the menstrual period. You just need to keep your radiant complexion during this hormonal calm zone. Retinol, vitamin C, and AHAs are among our favorite substances. Additionally, it is a fantastic time to experiment with new products since your skin is at its healthiest and most balanced point for the whole month.
Days 15–28 of the Luteal Phase
We won’t sugarcoat it: This portion of the cycle is everything but simple. You typically picture this stage when you think of “period skin.” breakouts, irritation, redness, and clogged pores! You should increase the amount of oil-regulating products in your regimen during this time because of the increased oil production (but be careful not to overdo it and stress your skin out). Every morning and evening, we like to highlight one standout product, whether it’s a clay mask, niacinamide serum, or salicylic acid treatment.
The menopausal ‘face’
During this phase, the body experiences a variety of changes, including hot flashes, urogenital symptoms, and psychogenic symptoms, which are also reflected in your skin. You can read more about Best Menopause Gummies and their best brands review.
Dryness
Why it occurs: Because estrogen encourages water retention, your skin will seem more plump as a result of the retention of water and moisture. Therefore, as estrogen levels fall, your skin gets dry, which might cause itching.
The remedy Ceramides, propylene glycol, glycerine, cetearyl alcohol, hyaluronic acid, jojoba oil, and argan oil are substances to look for in your moisturizer. You may also use coconut oil for the body once or twice every day. If you have acne, stay away from using oils or other heavier components on your face. Use a hyaluronic acid serum now and a water-based moisturizer afterwards.
Avoiding taking hot showers is another piece of advice. Hot water dries out natural oils that have already been depleted, causing further dryness. Use cold or lukewarm water if possible. Additionally, fragrances and scented cosmetics promote pigmentation and skin drying. Choose moderate, non-soapy cleansers rather than fragrant body washes while taking a shower.
Sagging
Why it occurs: A necessary protein called collagen serves as the foundation for your body’s skin, hair, nails, muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels. It supports the skin, keeps it taut, and offers structural strength and flexibility. Collagen production declines with aging and is further slowed by estrogen deficiency. Skin sags as a consequence of this.
The remedy The greatest anti-aging tip is to consistently use sunscreen and a moisturizing cream. Don’t worry if you didn’t start when you were younger. Under the direction of a dermatologist, prescription-only retinol or bakuchiol, a potent antioxidant like niacinamide or vitamin C, may be utilized. On the skin, active chemicals may be rather potent, thus it is always advised to follow professional advice. Regarding in-clinic treatments, we advise using non-invasive techniques like ultrasound or radio frequency treatments. Microneedling, fillers, or threads are also helpful when it comes to invasive procedures. These increase collagen synthesis and give skin a young, tight appearance.
Pigmentation
Why it occurs: Hormonal changes and sun exposure are the main causes of melasma or pigmentation during menopause. Melasma, which are dark spots that might appear on your cheeks or nose, as well as generalized pigmentation and uneven skin tone, are possible. The hormonal imbalance that is taking place inside of your body and the pigmentation might both be made worse by UV light.
The solution: Wear sunblock constantly. The best option is a combination of chemical and physical sunscreens with an SPF of at least 30 or 50. You should apply and reapply every three hours, even if you are at home. Experts emphasize the need of sunscreen since it may stop your pigmentation from darkening further. Depending on your skin type or condition, we advise using anti-aging pigmentation creams with kojic acid or arbutin instead of sunscreen. To treat pigmentation, in-office procedures including hydration facials, chemical peels, lasers, and micro-needling are quite helpful.
Acne
Why it occurs: Put it down to the hormones! Similar to adolescence, menopause may also bring on acne. Breakouts are the consequence of shifting hormone levels. Even if you didn’t have acne when you were a teen, hormonal imbalance might cause acne now.
The remedy: Use a gentle cleanser rather than resorting to more potent substances like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide if you have dry skin and acne. During this period, acne may be treated using a water-based moisturizer, water-based sunscreen, and an acne medicine that your dermatologist has prescribed.
We suggest adding a niacinamide serum before a moisturizer and sunscreen after you’ve established a regimen. It could improve skin immunity, regulate oil production, and lessen pigmentation. When it comes to food, it’s better to stay away from sugar and dairy since they might aggravate your acne, which is brought on by a hormonal imbalance.
