This is How You Sync Your Skincare Routine with Your Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle involves a series of changes that the female body undergoes to prepare itself for a possible pregnancy. While the length of the menstrual cycle varies from person to person, hormonal surges and their impact on the skin are common and widespread. From dryness and oiliness to problematic breakouts, the skin witnesses all. Read through for the best face care routine to follow during different phases of the menstrual cycle.

Phases of Menstrual Cycle

Menstruation is a cyclical process. On average, a menstrual cycle lasts for 28 days. The start of the menstrual phase is marked by ‘periods’ when the uterus sheds its lining once the ovum fails to fertilise i.e. pregnancy ceases to happen. The menstrual cycle is divided into four phases. Hormones play a crucial role in each phase of the menstrual cycle. These include:

• Menstrual phase – A menstrual cycle begins with a bleeding phase. It starts on the first day of the period and lasts for 4-6 days. During this phase, the uterus sheds its lining called the endometrium. Hormones progesterone and oestrogen are crucial during this phase.
• Follicular phase – The end of the menstrual phase paves way for the follicular phase. It lasts for up to 10 days. It is marked by the reformation of the egg and the endometrial lining. The oestrogen hormone is crucial during this phase.
• Ovulation phase – This phase marks the release of the egg from the ovaries. LH and oestrogen are important hormones during this phase.
• Luteal phase – This phase starts from day 14th and continues till the start of the menstrual phase. LH levels decrease while oestrogen and progesterone hormones are active during this phase.

Menstrual Cycle and Skin Changes

Skin is the largest organ of the human body and is widely affected by hormonal fluctuations. The hormonal surges and plunges during different phases of a menstrual cycle affect the skin in the following ways:

1. The Menstrual Phase

During the menstrual phase, the levels of oestrogen and progesterone are at their lowest. While low levels of oestrogen weaken the skin’s barrier function and reduce skin hydration, low levels of progesterone reduce the activity of the sebaceous gland and reduce oil production. The skin thus feels dry and dull.

2. The Follicular and Ovulation Phase

During the second and third phases of the menstrual cycle, the oestrogen levels slowly rise during follicular phase and reaches peak before ovulation.  The testosterone levels are also rising. This improves barrier function, increases the production of collagen and hyaluronic acid and enhances skin hydration. The progesterone levels are still low, so the skin is less oily. But due to increasing oestrogen levels, the skin is more radiant and glowing.

3. The Luteal Phase

As the menstrual cycle enters the luteal phase, progesterone levels begin to rise. This increases sebum production, making the skin oilier. This is the time when most women experience acne. Towards the end of the luteal phase, oestrogen levels are on a receding trend preparing the body for the next cycle. Thus, the skin becomes sensitive and therefore more prone to allergens and irritants.

Skin Care According to Menstrual Cycle

Every woman goes through a series of skin changes during her menstrual cycle. Here’s the best face care routine to follow for effective nourishment and skin care during each phase.

1. Skin Care During Menstrual Phase

Skin care during the menstrual phase revolves around hydrating the skin. As the skin is very dry and sensitive during this phase, avoid changing cosmetics or trying out new types of face care tips. Simply stick to the basics and moisturise and hydrate your skin well. Use a steam towel to enhance circulation and boost skin metabolism. Consider using intense moisturising face cream or light facial oils. Give yourself a good facial massage or take a professional facial or skin treatment to promote circulation.

2. Skin Care During Follicular Phase

Thanks to the rising oestrogen levels, the skin begins to look radiant, healthy and glowy during the follicular phase. Women with sensitive skin must use a light facial cleanser and soap to wash away impurities. Women with normal to oily skin can use foaming cleansers twice a day. Moisturising the skin with a light face cream or lotion is important. Use a good sunscreen lotion to protect the skin from UV rays. As this is a good time for the skin, pamper your skin with a good face care routine. Try homemade skin masks and give yourself a light face massage every night. This is the best time to try new cosmetics as the skin’s barrier function is at its highest. Drink plenty of fluids and use good facial oils with high amounts of Vitamin C.

3. Skin Care During Ovulation Phase

Oestrogen levels peak during the ovulation  and so does the skin quality, its glow and radiance. This is the best time for the skin and ideal for trying out a new product and face care routine. But increasing levels of LH hormone can make the skin prone to bacterial overgrowth. Therefore, pay extra attention to handwashing hygiene. Avoid touching your face frequently and follow a twice-a-day face cleansing routine. Use oil-free skin care products and switch to water-based creams and lotions. Avoid products that are heavy and oily as they can begin to clog pores, paving way for acne breakouts in the luteal phase. Never sleep with your make-up on.

4. Skin Care During Luteal Phase

As the oestrogen levels begin to fall and the progesterone levels start to rise and peak, acne breakout is the most common concern during this phase. The skin’s barrier function is low, so the skin is more prone to bacterial and pus-filled breakouts. Avoid excessive use of skin care products. Instead, use fruit-based regenerative peels which help unclog pores and remove extra sebum. Light moisturisers and products containing Vitamin A are the best for the face care routine. You can use spot correctors for stubborn acne. Remember, not to change cosmetics or try out new products. Avoid using make-up as much as possible. Wash and cleanse your face thoroughly, and use gentle moisturiser and face oil. Protect your skin from UV rays as they can aggravate acne breakout. Limit your intake of sugar and caffeine.

Conclusion

Your menstrual cycle is not just responsible for your energy levels and overall mood but also decides how your hair and skin feel. Though the menstrual cycle sees a series of biological changes as the body prepares for a possible conception, it’s the skin that gets the beating due to hormonal fluctuations. Rising and falling levels of oestrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and LH hormones can make the skin dry, dull or oiler; depending upon the phase of the menstrual cycle. Face care routine and practices that match your phase of the menstrual cycle will ensure that the skin gets phase-specific pampering, providing adequate nourishment to keep the skin in great condition, despite intense and continuous hormonal changes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Skin Care According to Menstrual Cycle