Your Skin Each Day of Your Cycle
Have you ever noticed how our skin cans go from glowy, plump and blemish free one day, to a red, irritated itchy mess the next? You haven't changed your diet, your products haven't changed a bit, so what the heck?
As women, our hormones are constantly fluctuating throughout our cycle, and there are noticeable changes in our skin that come along with that. Attached is a breakdown of our cycle day-to-day and how it affects our sebum, pores, and general 'glow-factor'!
Day 1
This is the first day of your period and the first day of your cycle. All hormones are at an all-time low, meaning your skin will be dry and may appear dull. Make sure to use your heaviest moisturizer, drink lots of water and avoid the temptation of a hot shower, as the heat will further dehydrate your skin.
Days 2 – 6
Progesterone and testosterone remain low and estrogen begins a slow increase in production. No major changes to the skin will be noticeable. Don’t skimp on your morning and nightly routine, as your skin needs attention most during this time of your cycle. Treat yourself to your favourite facial peel to help brighten your complexion.
Days 7 – 9
Estrogen continues its climb and you will notice a slight improvement in your skin’s appearance.
Days 10 – 13
Estrogen is at an all-time high, and there’s also an increase in testosterone. Your skin should be at its best for appearance with a high retention of moisture. Use a regular or lightweight moisturizer during these days and embrace a bare-faced look. Your skin’s natural glow will be all you need to look your best. Time to go selfie crazy!
Day 14
Ovulation day. Your skin should still have a healthy glow.
Days 15 – 19
After ovulation, estrogen and testosterone start to decrease and progesterone begins to increase. You will notice your skin becomes slightly oilier at this point. Due to the surge in progesterone, your “skin swells and pores are compressed shut, as a result, pores never looked so minimized,” according to Dr. Engelman. Make sure you don’t fall asleep with makeup on during this time (not that you ever should) as this is the beginning of potential period breakouts. Also, due to the excess oil being produced use a lighter moisturizer during these days.
Days 20-24
Progesterone is at its peak and this is when menstrual-induced acne is most likely to occur. Dr. Engelman recommends using “products that keep pores open like salicylic acid, which also combats inflammation. Vitamin A derivatives like retinols and retinoids help to decrease sebum production and keep pores unclogged. Benzoyl peroxide containing products kill acne [bacteria] that can proliferate during hormonal fluctuations.” Avoid touching your face, make sure makeup brushes are clean and cleanse your face thoroughly every morning and night.
Days 25 – 28
Both estrogen and progesterone begin to plummet in preparation for Day 1. This is a good time to do a hydrating mask and pamper yourself as you begin to naturally lose your skin’s moisture.