Skincare Cycling – how to adapt your skincare routine according to your menstrual cycle
Most of us have been there – over 60% of women have experienced hormonal acne around their period at some point. But at the same time, most women are aware of the “glow” around the middle of your cycle.
The reason for these irritating, yet regularly occurring skin problems lie with our hormones, the main ones being Estrogen, Progesterone and Testosterone, and the rising and dropping of these throughout our menstrual cycle.
But did you know, that you can actually take advantage of these regular hormonal changes and their effects? You can with your workout (check this blog post out) and your nutrition, but also with your skincare routine!
You can tailor your skincare routine to suit your skins needs according the menstrual cycle phase you’re in. Here’s how – however we want to add a small disclaimer here: According to dermatologists, this technique is not suitable for people with general skin problems, such as strong acne or dry skin, because a consistent skincare routine tends to be best and deliver more effective results in those cases.
DISCLAIMER: THIS BLOG POST DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE
The information in this blog post, including but not limited to the text, graphics, images, are for educational and informational purposes only. None of the material within this blog post is intended to substitute medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified medical professional such as your doctor when you have concerns or questions.
Skincare cycling 101
Days 1-5: Menstruation - MOISTURISE & NOURISH
Your cycle begins with the first day of your period, which is menstruation. The estrogen and progesterone levels are at their lowest right now, resulting in drier, duller and tighter skin. The skin barrier’s functions tend to be compromised, leading to a higher probability of irritants and external aggressors entering the skin.
During this time, your skin is more sensitive and reactive: Try to brighten your skin by keeping it well hydrated and balance and avoid any skincare treatments that could make it more sensitive than it already is.
DOs:
Gentle skin products: creamy, anti-inflammatory moisturizers or one with essential fatty acids such as linoleic and oleic, for example, products with shea or cocoa butter.
Antioxidant-rich oils that reduce transepidermal water loss, such as jojoba, baobab and moringa.
Hydrating overnight masks that help lock in that extra moisture and protect your skin barrier.
Get those important nutrients in your diet, this will also help give your skin the boost that it needs (Check out this post for more on that).
DON’Ts:
Harsh active ingredients, such as retinol, glycolic acid and lactic acids: with skin already being sensitive, these can cause irritation and those period spots that we are all aware of.
Exfoliate and wax – with your skin being more sensitive you are also more sensitive to pain, so it might be worth just giving those painful hair removal treatments a miss during this time
Forget sunscreen!
Days 6-12: Follicular Phase - MAINTAIN
The end of your menstruation means your estrogen levels are rising again: THAT glow is on the way! The skin tends to be hydrated, plump, brighter and clearer-looking at this time of your menstrual cycle. You may experience noticeable improvements in your skin, as newer and stronger skin cells are forming, thanks to increased collagen production.
DOs:
Chemical exfoliation with lactic acid or fruit enzymes to assist with cell turnover.
Go hard (1 or 2 times) on those products containing active anti-aging ingredients, like retinol, that support the body’s natural collagen production.
Water-based serums to maintain that glow.
Skin is less sensitive during this time of the cycle, so it’s a great time for those hair removal treatments, if that’s your thing.
This is your time of the month to try out those new products you’ve had your eye on – but remember to implement new products slowly.
DON’Ts:
Your skin is at its peak right now, there are no Can’t-Do’s! Just don’t forget sunscreen!
Days 13-23: Ovulation & Early Luteal Phase – HYDRATE & PREVENT
At the mid-cycle point of your menstrual cycle, your egg is released from the ovary into the fallopian tube – this is ovulation time! Estrogen and testosterone levels are high, which causes a surge in luteinizing hormone. This combination is the starting point that leads to hormonal acne, so preparation & prevention are key right now! Booking a facial at this time might be a great idea to deep clean your pores before the oil starts to increase.
DOs:
Use a gentle, yet clarifying cleansing routine.
Soak up any excess sebum with a detoxifying face mask to eliminate pore-clogging bacteria. Clay-based masks are good fit.
Exfoliate with lactic acid, salicylic acid or mandelic acid to keep pores free from buildup which could cause breakouts.
Keep your skin hydrated with lightweight lotions.
DON’Ts:
Face oils are not necessary at this point of the cycle and may only advance and aggravate your skin’s oil production.
Forget sunscreen!
Days 24-28: Late Luteal Phase - CALM INFLAMMATION & OIL CONTROL
With higher progesterone levels, oil production is at an all-time high right during the final phase of the menstrual cycle.This is when those blemishes tend to make an appearance, which signals your period may be starting soon. Retained water may lead to puffier skin and clogged pores, meaning inflammation and breakouts tend to appear. PMS also comes into play right now with those cravings for unhealthier food meaning that our nutrition can take a hit, which also has an effect on our complexion. But this doesn’t mean you should restrict yourself and not indulge on those cravings, this is the time to treat yourself (your body is telling you what you need)… BUT, this is a time to take action with your skincare routine to prevent those breakouts from happening! Testosterone also dominates during the late luteal phase, with estrogen levels going down, which can mean that facial hair is more apparent – it’s a good time for getting a dermaplaning session booked in - if you’re down with it.
DOs:
Exfoliate 2-3 times a week with formulas that contain anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory botanicals, especially ones containing BHA salicylic acid which are great at preventing and treating comedonal acne, which is more likely at this phase of the cycle.
Use niacinamide to balance oil production and reduce inflammation
Have spot treatment at the ready for those breakout-prone areas
Hydrate yourself not only through moisturizing but also through drinking plenty of water – helps to keep your skin clear.
DON’Ts:
Over cleanse thinking this will help prevent and get rid of breakouts – this only irritates the skin more and damages the skin barrier.
Skip moisturising.
Forget sunscreen!
If you’re interested in making your menstrual cycle useful, click HERE to find out more about how we are turning menstrual blood from waste to something extremely useful.
Do you want to understand the link between your menstrual cycle and skin breakouts? Then be sure to check out http://onelink.to/SkinTheory, their easy to use in-app tracking will help you figure it out!
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