We know that the period of the rules turns our whole body upside down, but not only. The different phases of the menstrual cycle also have a direct link with the quality of the skin. Small pimples, duller complexion, drier skin… What if menstrual cosmetics helped us to fight against these upheavals?
The average duration of the menstrual cycle is 28 days. 28 days which are notably divided into four phases, during which two types of hormones important for the good health of our skin fluctuate. This is estrogen, which promotes skin suppleness and stimulates production of collagen and elastin. And progesterone, responsible for activating the sebaceous glands.
These hormonal variations put a strain on our skin. Just before and during menstruation, estrogen and progesterone levels drop, leading to increased sebum production. This excess sebum promotes the appearance of blackheads, microcysts and acne. Many women also suffer from pimples during their periods, a condition more commonly known as hormonal acne. That’s not all, during menstruation, the skin may seem drier and more easily irritated, as hydration decreases.
In reality, it is only during the pre-ovulation phase that the skin is ultra-glowy and smooth, as estrogen levels increase to maintain proper hydration. But after ovulation, the progesterone level increases while the estrogen level decreases. This upheaval gradually leads to the return of acne. Then, when both rates drop around the time of menstruation, the imperfections resurface.
Faced with these hormonal roller coasters, it is often advisable to adapt your beauty routine to different phases of the menstrual cycle.
- The menstrual phase (periods)
During this phase when hormones drop, the complexion is dull, the skin is dehydrated and sensitive to irritation.
What to do ? Lighten your routine by focusing on moisturizers and a gentle double cleansing, so as not to attack the skin. Hydrating your skin as much as possible is important because it is during this period that the estrogen level is at its lowest. It is therefore essential to opt for water-soaked skincare products to restore the skin’s suppleness and to soothe it.
You should also avoid overloading it with cosmetics of all kinds, because the epidermis is more prone to inflammation and the appearance of pimples. If you suffer from hormonal acne, don’t hesitate to ask your dermatologist for advice, who will prescribe targeted treatments, such as Cutacnyl®.
This is the pre-ovulation phase! It occurs a few days after menstruation. The estrogen level is at its highest, which promotes good hydration. Remember, estrogen also stimulates the production of collagen and elastin. The skin is therefore naturally brighter and plumped up.
What to do ? This is when the skin is most reactive to care. So you can bet on a gentle scrub to deeply cleanse the skin, eliminate dead cells and activate the regeneration of the epidermis. As well as on moisturizing masks.
The estrogen level remains high, so the skin is resistant, firm, supple and smooth. Nevertheless, the testosterone level increases, which can make the ground favorable to imperfections.
What to do ? Adapt your routine with non-comedogenic moisturizers so as not to promote the appearance of pimples.
- The luteal phase (premenstrual)
It is from this phase that it gets complicated. The progesterone level is up while the estrogen level is down. The skin is therefore less hydrated and as a defense mechanism, it produces more sebum and clogs the pores. It’s the return of blackheads, microcysts and other imperfections.
What to do ? Ditch the facial oils and opt for a double cleaning to remove impurities. You can also use AHAs if your epidermis supports them, to keep a smooth skin texture.
Menstrual cosmetics: the right products to shop
The beauty world has recently seen a boom in menstrual cosmetics. Products that meet specific needs depending on the phase you are in, for the face and for the body.
- The premenstrual period care Oh My Periods! by Nideco
It is a melting and rebalancing gel cream that guarantees a feeling of comfort before the period of the rules. This treatment also protects the skin from external aggressions.
The price ? 27.50 euros at Nocibé.
- MiYé Happy Cycles Body Serum
This body serum is used in local massage to soothe and drain sensitized areas during cycles, such as breasts, tense stomach or heavy legs.
The price ? 25 euros at Nocibé.
- Payot My Period menstrual cure
This is a cure of nine serums to start on the first day of menstruation and for nine consecutive days, to rebalance and soothe the skin during the period of menstruation.
The price ? 28 euros at Sephora.
- Typology periodic serums
In the program ? Four serums according to the four phases of the menstrual cycle, to meet the different needs of the skin at the moment T.
The price ? 49.40 euros on the Typology website.
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