SKINCARE THROUGH THE MENSTRUAL CYCLE
A woman’s skin moves through a 28-day cycle, which aligns with the moon and regular menstruation. With hormones fluctuating throughout this cycle, the skin is prone to a variety of changes. To help nourish and properly treat it, various products may be helpful at different stages.
The menstrual cycle is made up of four phases: the follicular phase, ovulation, the luteal phase, and menstruation. The follicular phase begins on the first day of a woman’s period. The next phase is ovulation, which is the time when an egg is released from the ovaries. This is the only point in a woman’s cycle where she is able to become pregnant. The third phase is the luteal phase or the week leading up to menstruation. The final phase is the menstrual phase or the “period”, which is also part of the follicular phase. The skin can be nourished differently depending on the phase of your cycle that you’re in.
PHASE 1 (FOLLICULAR)
What’s Happening
During the follicular phase, FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) increases to help eggs mature for ovulation and conception. Estrogen also begins to increase to thicken the uterine lining to support pregnancy.
The Reason For Your Skin Woes
At the beginning of this stage (menstruation), estrogen is low, making the skin dry and desperate for hydration. Focusing on nourishment and hydration is essential when it comes to maintaining healthy, radiant skin.
Remedies
Use: Hydrating serums, masks, and rich oils that will bring much-needed moisture to the skin.
Later in the phase, estrogen levels rise, boosting collagen and thickening the skin. Estrogen continues to build during this phase, reaching its peak during ovulation. This addition of estrogen makes the skin more vibrant and plump.
Use: Minimal, general nourishment. The skin shouldn’t need too much to look its absolute best at this time. This mist is also lovely!
PHASE 2 (OVULATION)
What’s Happening
During this phase, hormone levels are fluctuating a fair amount. Estrogen continues to increase and peaks right before ovulation, while testosterone rises and then drops around ovulation. Progesterone levels are also changing towards the end of this phase, which may affect the skin.
The Reason For Your Skin Woes
The boost in estrogen can give the skin a healthy shine, known as the ovulation “glow.” However, the rise in testosterone, which can increase sebum production, may potentially cause acne.
Use: Basic skin nourishment or oil-balancing, toning, and oil-regulating skincare.
Progesterone levels begin to rise after ovulation, resulting in oilier skin and an increased likelihood of clogged pores.
Try: Gentle exfoliation to prepare for upcoming hormonal changes.
PHASE 3 (LUTEAL)
What’s Happening
At this phase, progesterone levels continue to increase with both estrogen and progesterone rising and falling just prior to menstruation. Drastic fluctuations in hormones may cause moodiness, disturbed sleep patterns, and increased appetite or cravings along with various changes in the skin.
The Reason For Your Skin Woes
The luteal phase is when women often experience dryness, irritation, ingrown hairs, sensitivity, redness, overproduction of oil, and clogged pores. Hormonal acne may flare up due to either excess estrogen or testosterone. Excess estrogen will usually present around the chin and jawline, as well as on the back. Excess testosterone causes the sebaceous glands to produce too much oil and appears as clogged pores and cystic acne. Bad acne of any kind almost always points to some kind of hormonal imbalance.
Remedies
Use: Soothing, calming serums, masks, and oils to reduce inflammation, along with pore-clearing remedies such as toners and exfoliants.
Try: Witch hazel as a toner to help balance oil production while not stripping the skin of its natural moisture. A rose quartz or kansa bronze gua sha are excellent tools to incorporate during this phase (and throughout all phases) to increase circulation and lymph movement and to rejuvenate tired, dull-looking skin.
PHASE 4 (MENSTRUATION)
What’s Happening
Hormones are at their lowest concentration during this phase. Estrogen rises and then falls right before menstruation. Progesterone comes to a halt to trigger the period.
The Reason For Your Skin Woes
During menstruation, the skin is more sensitive and dry, making wrinkles more obvious. Acne generally happens before or during the first few days of this phase.
Remedies
Use: Hydrating, plumping, soothing, and restorative skin care products. Soothing serums, balms, and masks will also moisturize the skin.
Try: Boosting collagen consumption through bone broth and collagen powder to support your skin's natural collagen production, reduce dryness, and decrease the appearance of wrinkles.
Overall, being mindful of your skincare routine during the four phases of the menstrual cycle will allow for proper nurturing of your skin. Tailoring your skincare to the different phases of your cycle should help your skin look its best. If you’re in need of more support and want to heal from the inside out and outside in, reach out to a holistic practitioner & holistic facialist for a personalized plan. Our favorite botanical skincare is EarthTonics