How does the menstrual cycle affect the skin?

The menstrual cycle averages 28 days and plays a central role in female sexual life, influencing not only fertility but also skin condition. Each phase of the cycle causes hormonal changes that can impact sebum production, hydration, and the appearance of skin problems. Here's how these changes manifest throughout the days of the cycle.

The follicular phase: skin regains radiance and balance

The follicular phase begins on the first day of the cycle, which is with the start of menstruation. During this phase, the body prepares for a new ovulation. Estrogen levels gradually increase, stimulating the growth of follicles in the ovaries. One of them becomes the dominant follicle, which releases the egg approximately 14 days before the next menstruation.

The increase in estrogen during this pre-ovulatory phase is good news for the skin. This hormone stimulates collagen production, improves hydration, and reduces sebum production. The skin then appears smoother, more radiant, and less prone to imperfections.

During this phase, hormones also reduce inflammation, which limits the appearance of breakouts and other skin problems. The complexion is even, often making this the most favorable period for the skin during the menstrual cycle.

The ovulatory phase: the peak of energy and fertility

Ovulation occurs around the middle of the cycle, around day 14. Under the effect of LH (luteinizing hormone), the dominant follicle ruptures to release the egg into the fallopian tube. This egg has a lifespan of approximately 24 hours if not fertilized.

This phase is marked by a peak in estrogen and an increase in body temperature. Although the skin may remain balanced and radiant during this period, some women might notice a slight increase in sebum due to hormonal fluctuations.

The cervical mucus, essential for fertility, becomes more abundant and transparent during this phase, a sign that the body is in its fertile window.

The luteal phase: skin problems appear

After ovulation, the luteal phase begins. The dominant follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, a structure that produces progesterone to prepare the uterine lining for pregnancy. This phase continues throughout the cycle and lasts an average of 14 days.

Progesterone, which is dominant during this period, stimulates the sebaceous glands and leads to increased sebum production. This overproduction can clog pores and encourage the appearance of pimples, blackheads, and other blemishes, especially in women prone to hormonal acne.

If the egg is not fertilized, the corpus luteum degrades, leading to a drop in progesterone and estrogen levels. This hormonal decrease can make the skin more sensitive, drier, and more prone to redness. It is also at this time that symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) appear, including duller skin and acne breakouts.

During the luteal phase, it is essential to adopt a gentle and hydrating skincare routine to counteract the negative effects of hormonal fluctuations.

Menstruation: skin in recovery phase

If the egg is not fertilized, the menstrual cycle restarts with menstruation. The drop in hormones causes the uterine lining to shed, marking the beginning of a new 28-day menstrual cycle. This hormonal decrease is often accompanied by dull, dry, and sometimes irritated skin.

Skin sensitivity is at its peak during menstruation, which can worsen conditions like eczema or rosacea. Therefore, it is advisable to use soothing and fragrance-free products during this period.

How to care for your skin according to your cycle phases?

To minimize the impact of the menstrual cycle on your skin, it's helpful to adapt your skincare routine according to your hormonal phases:

  1. Follicular and Pre-ovulatory Phase:

    • Cleanse your skin with a cleanser containing salicylic acid and probiotics to regulate sebum while strengthening the skin barrier.

    • Deeply hydrate your skin with a vitamin C serum to reduce the appearance of pores and brighten your complexion.

  2. Ovulatory Phase:

    • Maintain a simple routine with balancing skincare. Use the salicylic acid and probiotic cleanser to prevent excess sebum.

    • Apply a moisturizer with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and peptides to strengthen the skin barrier and maintain hydration.

  3. Luteal Phase:

    • Introduce blemish-fighting skincare with the salicylic acid cleanser to eliminate excess sebum and prevent breakouts.

    • Hydrate your skin with a cream containing ceramides and peptides to soothe and repair the skin while maintaining its hydrolipidic balance.

  4. Menstruation:

    • Use the gentle salicylic acid and probiotic cleanser to purify without irritation.

    • Opt for creams that are fragrance-free, essential oil-free, and irritant-free.

Conclusion

The menstrual cycle directly influences skin condition due to hormonal variations. Each phase brings its share of changes, whether in terms of hydration, sebum production, or skin sensitivity. By understanding these fluctuations and adapting your skincare routine, it is possible to maintain healthy and balanced skin throughout the days of your cycle.

 

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