How Your Menstrual Cycle Impacts Your Skin

Not only does your menstrual cycle affect your mood and energy levels, it also has a major impact on your skin. From acne to glowing skin, hormonal fluctuations throughout your cycle can cause a variety of skin changes. Even if you suffer from premenstrual acne, understanding how your skin changes during different stages of your menstrual cycle can help you manage these changes more effectively. 

To understand how your skin undergoes changes during your menstrual cycle, the OnlyMyHealth team spoke to Dr Sukirti Jain, Consultant Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Vashi, Navi Mumbai.

“The menstrual cycle has a major impact on your skin due to fluctuations in hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone,” explains Dr Jain. Each phase of the cycle brings with it different challenges, from acne and oiliness to increased dryness and sensitivity.” Understanding these changes can help you adjust your skincare routine accordingly to maintain healthier, more balanced skin throughout the month.

Each stage of the menstrual cycle and its effect on the skin

The menstrual cycle usually lasts around 28 days and is divided into four phases: the menstrual phase, the follicular phase, the ovulatory phase and the luteal phase. Each phase has a unique hormonal profile that has a specific effect on the skin.

1. Menstrual period (days 1-5)

This phase begins on the first day of your period and lasts for around three to seven days. “Hormonal levels, especially oestrogen and progesterone, are at their lowest, which can have a variety of effects on your skin,” says Jain. 

Skin condition: At this stage, many women will notice that their skin looks dull, tired, and dry. “Low estrogen levels mean less collagen production and slower skin cell turnover, which can result in dull skin,” points out Dr Jain. 

Sensitivity: Your skin may become more sensitive and prone to irritation during your period. If you’re prone to conditions like eczema or rosacea, your condition may worsen during this time. 

Acne: During menstruation, your testosterone-to-oestrogen ratio temporarily rises, which stimulates oil production and can lead to acne or aggravate existing acne. Additionally, Dr Jain says, menstrual flow can cause dehydration, which can lead to dry, irritated skin. 

Skin Care Instructions:

• This stage focuses on hydrating and soothing the skin. To prevent dry skin, use a moisturizer with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides.
• If you suffer from acne, a gentle cleanser that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can help clear pores without irritating sensitive skin.

2. Follicular phase (days 6-14)

The follicular phase begins after your period ends. During this period, estrogen levels gradually increase, peaking just before ovulation. According to Dr Jain, this is one of the best times for skin health as estrogen has a variety of beneficial effects on the skin.

Skin Condition: Estrogen stimulates collagen production, thickens the skin, and increases its ability to retain moisture, resulting in skin that looks more radiant, plump, and hydrated. 

Improved skin texture: Increased oestrogen levels increase skin cell turnover, making skin smoother and brighter. “You may also notice fewer age spots and a more even complexion at this stage,” says Dr Jain.  

Balanced sebum secretion: Unlike the luteal phase (discussed below), during the follicular phase your sebum secretion tends to be properly regulated, meaning you’re less likely to experience acne or excess sebum. 

Skin Care Instructions:

• Moisturizers that contain humectants such as glycerin help retain moisture and protect the skin barrier.

3. Ovulation (around the 14th day)

Ovulation occurs when a mature egg is released from the ovaries, usually around the middle of your menstrual cycle. During this phase, estrogen peaks and testosterone levels also rise slightly, which can have a variety of effects on your skin.

Increased radiance: Higher oestrogen levels mean your skin looks its best around ovulation – it’s often more hydrated, clearer and more radiant, often described as ‘glowing.’ “This is because oestrogen stimulates blood circulation, supplying more nutrients and oxygen to skin cells,” explains Dr Jain. 

Increased sebum production: Testosterone levels also rise slightly during ovulation, which can stimulate the sebaceous glands. “For some people, this results in a slight increase in sebum production, but for others, this can lead to clogged pores and acne,” points out Dr Jain.  

Skin Care Instructions:

• Continue using a moisturizer, but monitor your skin for signs of increased sebum production. If your skin becomes oily, consider using a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer.
• During this time, use non-comedogenic makeup and skin care products to prevent clogged pores.

4. Luteal phase (days 15-28)

The luteal phase occurs after ovulation and lasts until the start of your next period. During this phase, your progesterone levels increase significantly and your estrogen levels gradually decrease. These hormonal changes can lead to some of the most noticeable changes in your skin.

Acne and oiliness: “Progesterone stimulates sebum production, which can lead to clogged pores, acne and oily skin,” says Dr Jain. This is why many women experience premenstrual acne at this time of year, especially around the chin and jawline.” 

Swelling and inflammation: Progesterone causes your body to retain more fluid, which can make your skin appear swollen and inflamed. “Hormonal changes may also contribute to increased inflammation associated with acne, making existing acne more noticeable,” says Dr. Jain. 

Skin Care Instructions:

• To combat acne, choose products that have sebum control and anti-inflammatory properties. Salicylic acid, niacinamide, and tea tree oil are great ingredients that help reduce oiliness and inflammation.
• Your skin may be more sensitive during this time, so be sure to maintain a gentle skin care routine: avoid harsh exfoliants and overly drying treatments that can aggravate acne and sensitive skin.