Hormones & Your Skin

By understanding these hormonal changes and their effects on your skin, you can adjust your skincare routine to better address your skin's needs throughout your menstrual cycle.

1. Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5)

Hormonal Changes:

  • Estrogen and progesterone levels are low.

  • The body starts shedding the uterine lining.

Skin Impact:

  • Dryness and Dullness: Reduced estrogen can lead to lower collagen production, making the skin appear dull and dry.

  • Sensitivity: Skin may be more sensitive due to the lower levels of hormones.

2. Follicular Phase (Days 6-14)

Hormonal Changes:

  • Estrogen levels gradually increase.

  • Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates the ovaries to prepare an egg for ovulation.

Skin Impact:

  • Improved Hydration: Increasing estrogen levels promote collagen production and skin hydration.

  • Clear and Glowing Skin: Higher estrogen levels can make the skin appear more radiant and less prone to breakouts.

3. Ovulation Phase (Around Day 14)

Hormonal Changes:

  • A surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) triggers ovulation.

  • Estrogen peaks just before ovulation, then drops.

  • Testosterone levels also rise around ovulation.

Skin Impact:

  • Oil Production: Increased testosterone can stimulate the sebaceous glands, leading to more oil production.

  • Possible Breakouts: The rise in oil production can sometimes cause pores to clog, leading to breakouts.

4. Luteal Phase (Days 15-28)

Hormonal Changes:

  • Progesterone levels rise after ovulation to prepare for a potential pregnancy.

  • Estrogen levels rise slightly and then drop again if pregnancy does not occur.

Skin Impact:

  • Increased Oiliness: Progesterone can increase sebum production, leading to oily skin.

  • Breakouts: The combination of increased oil and hormonal fluctuations can result in premenstrual breakouts, especially around the chin and jawline.

  • Puffiness: Higher progesterone levels can cause the skin to retain water, leading to puffiness.

Tips for Each Phase:

  • Menstrual Phase: Focus on gentle hydration and soothing products to reduce sensitivity.

  • Follicular Phase: Maintain a regular skincare routine with hydration and light exfoliation.

  • Ovulation Phase: Use oil-control products and keep pores clear with gentle cleansers and exfoliants.

  • Luteal Phase: Implement spot treatments for breakouts and consider products with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to manage excess oil.

I'sha Gainesperiodtips, skinonperiod, hormonesandskin, hormonalacneComment