The menstrual cycle is 28 days long on average and plays a central role in a woman's sex life , influencing not only fertility but also the condition of her skin. 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 themselves throughout the days of the cycle .
The follicular phase: the skin regains radiance and balance
The follicular phase begins on the first day of the cycle , that is, with the onset 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 about 14 days before the next menstruation.
The increase in estrogen during this pre-ovulatory phase is good news for the skin. This hormone stimulates the production of collagen , improves hydration and reduces sebum production. The skin then appears smoother, more radiant and less prone to blemishes.
During this phase, hormones also reduce inflammation, which limits the appearance of pimples and other skin problems. Skin tone is even, which often makes it the most favorable time for skin during the menstrual cycle .
The ovulatory phase: peak energy and fertility
Ovulation occurs about halfway through the cycle, around day 14. Under the influence of LH (luteinizing hormone) , the dominant follicle ruptures to release the egg into the fallopian tube . This egg has a lifespan of about 24 hours if it is not fertilized.
This phase is marked by a spike in estrogen and an increase in body temperature . Although skin may remain balanced and glowing during this time, some women may experience a slight increase in sebum due to hormonal fluctuations.
Cervical mucus , essential for fertility, becomes more abundant and transparent during this phase, a sign that the body is in its fertile period.
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 dominates this period, stimulates the sebaceous glands and causes an increase in sebum production. This overproduction can clog pores and promote the appearance of pimples, blackheads and other imperfections, especially in women prone to hormonal acne.
If the egg is not fertilized , the corpus luteum breaks down, causing progesterone and estrogen levels to drop. This hormonal drop can make the skin more sensitive, drier, and more prone to redness. This is also when symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) occur, 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 drop is often accompanied by dull, dry, and sometimes irritated skin.
Skin sensitivity is at its peak during menstruation, which can aggravate certain conditions such as eczema or rosacea. It is therefore advisable to use soothing and fragrance-free products during this period.
How to take care of your skin according to the phases of the cycle?
To minimize the impact of the menstrual cycle on the skin, it is useful to adapt your skincare routine according to the hormonal phases:
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Follicular and pre-ovulatory phase :
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Cleanse your skin with a cleanser containing salicylic acid and probiotics to regulate sebum while strengthening the skin barrier.
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Deeply hydrate your skin with a vitamin C serum to reduce the appearance of pores and add radiance to your complexion.
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Ovulatory phase :
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Keep your routine simple with balancing skincare. Use the Salicylic Acid and Probiotic Cleanser to prevent excess sebum.
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Apply a moisturizer with ceramides, hyaluronic acid and peptides to strengthen the skin barrier and preserve hydration.
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Luteal phase :
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Introduce anti-blemish care with the salicylic acid cleanser to eliminate excess oil and prevent pimples.
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Hydrate your skin with a cream with ceramides and peptides to soothe and repair the skin while maintaining its hydrolipidic balance.
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Menstruation :
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Use the gentle cleanser with salicylic acid and probiotics to purify without irritation.
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Choose creams without perfumes, essential oils or irritants.
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Conclusion
The menstrual cycle , which continues throughout the cycle , directly influences the condition of the skin 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 the cycle .