Attention people with uteruses! There’s a scientific reason why you break out worse on some days of the month over others! Wanna know why? Then keep reading...
As women, we are blessed with the ability to bear children. But along with that gift comes the price of monthly hormonal fluctuations! UGH! And since our hormones control so much around the way our body functions, these fluctuations can wreak havoc on our skin.
So let us break it down for you! Most women's cycle can fall anywhere from 28-31 days. This time can be broken down into 4 "phases".
1. Menstruation2. Follicular Phase
3. Ovulation
4. Luteal Phase
Menstruation (Days 1-3)
During the first few days of your cycle, levels of estrogen and progesterone are low. This means that your skin is going to be on it's best behavior during this time!
Follicular Phase (Days 4-14)
Estrogen as well as testosterone gradually rises during the first 10 days of your cycle. This means brighter and clearer skin! For some, rising levels of testosterone can lead to increased oil production...but the vast majority of people will experience consistently clearer skin during this phase!
Around Ovulation (Approx. Day 14-19)
Since estrogen peaks during ovulation, your skin will have a healthy glow around this time! Increased luteinizing hormone levels can make your skin prone to bacterial overgrowth, so beware.
Luteal Phase (Days 20-28)
Escalating amounts of progesterone, while intended to create a cozy and comfy habitat for an embryo, can also lead to increased sebum production, which may lead to oilier skin. This can lead to commonly known PMS-related skin issues, like breakouts and acne! Skin may also be more sensitive during this time.
It's important to remember that taking care of your body goes beyond just your face. You should pay attention to your intimate areas. During menstruation, it's recommended to take regular showers to avoid getting an infection. In all menstrual cycle phases, try to avoid using synthetic or tight-fitting underwear. Instead, consider searching for women's cotton underwear and undergarments to find the best option that suits your needs.
FUN FACT: Hormonal birth control pills work by increasing estrogen levels, therefore tricking your body into not ovulating. This increase in estrogen is why many people who start taking birth control pills experience less acne!
How to Support Your Skin During the 3 Phases
Menstruation (Days 1-3): Not much is needed during this time. Live your life!
Follicular Phase (Days 4-14): During these 2 weeks, it's best to live by the mantra "less is more", and remember to Hydrate Hydrate Hydrate! Increase water intake, and never forget your moisturizer!
Around Ovulation (approx. Day 14-19): Avoid using heavy oil-based moisturizers. This is going to be the best time to try new skin care products, scrubs or masks as your skin will be less sensitive.
Luteal Phase (Days 20-28): Try to be extra gentle with your skin during these days. Try to reduce sugar, dairy, caffeine and white carbs. If you wear makeup, opt for a more natural look and avoid the use of heavy foundations.
During all phases of your cycle, make sure that you're using a natural, non-irritating skincare regimen. We recommend our Facial Skincare Basics bundle, as it provides the skin with just enough gentle cleansing as well as the nourishment that it needs during all phases.
If you want to be prepared for the changes that are going to be happening to your skin each month, make sure you're tracking your cycle! This can of course be done with pen + paper, but i'm a huge fan of using an App! A few of my favorites are Kindara as well as Flo Period & Ovulation Tracker. And as an added bonus, both of these apps are completely Free!
Remember that EVERYONE's cycle is different! While one person's ovulation day might fall on day 12 of their cycle, someone else's may fall on the 16th day of their cycle. Everyone's body is unique and will be impacted by hormones differently. Hormonal imbalances can dramatically affect the way your skin looks — from breakouts to dryness. In order to clear up your skin, you need to identify what’s causing the problem in the first place. Treating hormonal acne and dry skin requires a multi-faceted approach that includes diet, skincare products, and lifestyle changes.
