For many people, the relationship with their skin feels like a rollercoaster. One week, it's glowing; the next, it’s a battleground of breakouts. But what if there was a way to predict these changes and adapt your skincare routine to your menstrual cycle—so you didn’t have to deal with those mid-month breakouts?
According to Dr Kiran Sethi, noted dermatologist and founder of Isya Aesthetics, taking care of your skin involves more than just using the right products—it also means understanding your body’s hormonal rhythm. “By aligning your skincare routine with your menstrual cycle, you can address specific concerns that arise due to hormonal fluctuations,” she says.
If you’re wondering how your skin is affected by your menstrual cycle precisely, for starters, it helps to understand that the process of menstruation is controlled by a complex interplay of hormones, including estrogen, progesterone and androgens. “These hormones don’t just regulate your reproductive system, but also influence the condition of your skin. By adapting your skincare routine to your menstrual cycle, you can address specific skin issues, such as increased oiliness, breakouts or sensitivity, that arise during each phase,” she explains.
While different skin types need different treatments, understanding the basics of how your skin fares during each stage of the menstrual cycle can help you get started.
How to devise a pre-menstruation skincare routine
Your concerns:
Also known as the luteal phase, the period of time from ovulation to menstruation is marked by higher levels of activity in the sebaceous glands. During this period, you might find increased oiliness and breakouts.
Your routine:
To cater to your skin’s needs without triggering a sudden acne flare-up, opt for gentle cleansers that prevent irritation. To keep excess oil under control, make the switch to oil-free moisturisers. Besides, keep spot treatments with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide at hand to deal with sudden breakouts.
Tira recommends:
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
Dr. Sheth's Ceramide & Vitamin C Oil Free Moisturiser
Conscious Chemist 2% Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment Serum For Acne, Blackheads & Open Pores
How to devise a mid-menstruation skincare routine
Your concerns:
As estrogen levels take a dip, the menstrual cycle often causes dull and lacklustre skin. You might also find your skin is prone to increased sensitivity and inflammation which makes it more irritable.
Your routine:
Beyond the basics of cleansing, moisturising and sun protection, turn your attention to calming your skin. If your skin has taken on a dull tinge, gentle exfoliants can help remove dead skin cells. Likewise, soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile can calm any signs of inflammation. Lastly, hydrating masks and serums will help you boost radiance and get that glow back.
Tira recommends:
The Formularx Air Brush Facial All In One Lactic Acid Exfoliating
Mamaearth Aloe Vera Gel
Farmacy Beauty Hydrating Coconut Gel Sheet Mask
Foxtale Keep Calm Daily Hydrating Serum With Hyaluronic Acid, Aquaporin Boosters
How to devise a post-menstruation skincare routine
Your concerns:
Ever noticed how your skin exudes main character energy after your period? The credit lies with the follicular phase from menstruation to ovulation. This is the time when your skin requires stability as it recovers from breakouts and sensitivity.
Your routine:
This is when you need to focus on skin renewal—and exfoliating treatments can help you get there. Products rich in antioxidants can also help protect and heal the skin, while lightweight moisturisers can offer hydration without clogging pores.
