Your skin and your period - how does it change depending on your cycle?
Did you know that your skin’s appearance can change depending on exactly where you are in your menstrual cycle? If you are able to track which phase you’re in, you may be able to better predict how your skin will react and use the proper techniques and ingredients to promote healthy clear skin. There are a lot of free period tracking apps, like 'Clue', that give this battle a lot more of an even playing field.
Let's have a look at what's happening hormonally and in the skin at each stage and how we can help support this to make sure our skin is clear and glowing all month long.
Day 1-6
During the first few days of your cycle, estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone levels are low. As a result, you may notice your skin is behaving during this time, though you may still have some skin healing from breakouts created during your last cycle. Let's take a look at what we can do over the next few weeks to assist the skin so this isn't a regular occurrence.
Day 7-11
At this phase, estrogen production is starting to increase which can promote healthy cell turnover. We want to promote this healthy cell turnover and make sure nothing gets clogged in the pores. Using gentle ingredients like Rice Bran, Lactic acid, Phytic acid and fruit Enzymes 2-3 times a week can help to slough off dead skin cells during this phase.
Day 12-16
Estrogen reaches its peak at this stage, right before ovulation, which means your skin is going to look its most healthy and glowing! A hydrating Hyaluronic acid masque or serum is great to use to lock in moisture and increase your natural glow. It is good to keep exfoliating regularly 2-3 per week during this stage.
We recommend: Skin Hydrating Booster, Bf Restore Face and Body Serum, Melting Moisture Masque, plus your chosen exfoliation.
Day 17-24
During this phase, estrogen levels drop and progesterone reaches its peak. This means you may be more prone to oil build-up and potential breakouts. Using a deep-cleansing mask to draw out impurities can help ward off potential blemishes during this stage.
Start to increase your exfoliation and hydration, doing something every night for this week will really keep on top of excess oil, dead skin cells building in the follicles and inflammation. Look at ingredients like Salicylic acid, Kaolin clay, Oat kernel, Hyaluronic acid, Niacinamide and Panthenol while alternating exfoliation, hydration and calming inflammation daily.
Day 25-28
Right before your period, testosterone production takes over and can lead to the dreaded period breakout. During this time, opt for a spot treatment containing ingredients like Salicylic acid, Tea tree, Aloe vera, Niacinamide, Vitamin E and use daily on the breakout to calm inflammation and start the healing process. Keep up your regular exfoliation and daily hydration.
We recommend: Sebum Clearing Masque, Clearing Skin Wash, Age Bright Clearing Serum, BD Luminosity Face Serum, Retinol Clearing Oil, Skin Hydrating Booster, Bf Restore Face and Body Serum, Skin Hydrating Masque.
Having a period-conscious skin care routine like this will take those hormonal breakouts we get from angry to minimal. Remember you can always talk to a Skintopia Skin Expert about the right product and routine for you. During Level 3, we are offering free Zoom consultations that can be booked via this link.
