Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle have a powerful impact on the condition of your skin. Each phase of the cycle brings different challenges, from increased sensitivity and dryness to excess sebum production and acne. Understanding these changes can help you adjust your skincare routine to prevent common skin problems and maintain a healthy, radiant appearance.
Menstrual Cycle Phases and Skin Changes
The menstrual cycle lasts an average of 28 days and is divided into four main phases: menstruation, follicular phase, ovulation, and luteal phase. Each of these phases has different hormonal changes that directly affect the skin.
1. Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5) – Dryness and Skin Sensitivity
🔹 Estrogen and progesterone levels are low, which can lead to reduced hydration and reduced ability to retain moisture.
🔹 Skin becomes more sensitive, dry and prone to irritation, and redness and flaking may also occur.
🔹 The body is naturally detoxifying, so the skin is more prone to sensitivity to products that it normally tolerates well.
Skin care during this phase:
✔️ Use gentle, hydrating products with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and squalane.
✔️ Avoid harsh exfoliants, acids, and retinol, as skin may be more sensitive than usual.
✔️ Soothing ingredients like aloe vera, panthenol, and chamomile can help reduce irritation.
✔️ Increase your water intake and hydrate your skin from the inside out.
2. Follicular Phase (Day 6-14) – Best Skin Condition
🔹 Estrogen levels rise, stimulating collagen and elastin production.
🔹 Skin looks fresh, hydrated and radiant, and pores are less visible.
🔹 This is the ideal period for regeneration and strengthening the skin barrier, as healing and cell renewal are the fastest.
Skin care during this phase:
✔️ Introduce mild exfoliants like AHA acids to remove dead cells and improve skin texture.
✔️ Use serums with vitamin C and antioxidants for extra radiance and prevention of hyperpigmentation.
✔️ Increase hydration with light gel-creams with hyaluronic acid and glycerol.
✔️ This is the ideal time for treatments such as masks, professional facial treatments and the introduction of new active ingredients.
3. Ovulation (Day 15-17) – Increased sebum production
🔹 During ovulation, estrogen levels peak, while testosterone levels also increase.
🔹 Sebum production may increase, which can lead to increased shine, but also potentially clogged pores.
🔹 Skin may look radiant, but oilier skin types may notice the appearance of blackheads and acne.
Skin care during this phase:
✔️ Use light, non-greasy moisturizers to prevent clogged pores.
✔️ Niacinamide and salicylic acid can help control sebum and prevent acne.
✔️ Avoid heavy, comedogenic products that can aggravate oily skin.
✔️ Additional UV protection is key as skin may be more sensitive to the sun.
4. Luteal Phase (Day 18-28) – Increased sensitivity and acne proneness
🔹 Progesterone levels rise, which increases water retention and can lead to puffiness and an uneven complexion.
🔹 The skin becomes more prone to inflammation, acne and pimples, especially in the chin and jawline.
🔹 People with problematic skin often notice hormonal acne breakouts and increased sensitivity.
Skincare during this phase:
✔️ Focus on soothing ingredients like zinc, probiotics, panthenol, and azelaic acid to reduce inflammation.
✔️ Spot treatments with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can help treat acne.
✔️ Avoid heavy foundations and makeup to reduce skin stress and the possibility of further clogging pores.
✔️ Increase your water intake and reduce your intake of sugar, refined carbohydrates, and dairy, which can worsen skin conditions.
✔️ Introduce soothing masks to reduce inflammation and redness.
Conclusion
Your skincare routine shouldn't be the same all month long. Adjusting your skincare routine to match your menstrual cycle can significantly improve your skin's health and appearance. Listen to your skin, adjust your products to its current needs, and prevent common issues like dryness, sensitivity, and acne.
📖 Also read related blogs:
Nighttime skin renewal: How to get the most out of your skincare routine before bed?
Stress and skin: How do emotions affect the health of your skin?
How to harmonize skincare with the menstrual cycle?
Digital detox for the skin: How to protect your face from blue light?
