Why Is My Skin So Reactive During My Period?

The skin is one of the bodies largest and most important organs. It acts as a protective barrier, helps regulate your body’s temperature, and helps your body eliminate toxins. Our skin is affected by physical and emotional changes within the body, as well as being impacted by conditions outside the body.

In this article, we explain why your skin misbehaves during your menstrual cycle, what sort of reactions you might experience, and the things you can do to help your skin.

What things can have an impact on my skin’s health?

Our skin is effected by physical changes that occur in the body, such as hormonal changes experienced during puberty and menopause, and by external factors such as heat, cold weather, wind, and pollution.

Moreover, during puberty, the oil secreting glands in our skin (Sebaceous glands) increase in size and can start to overproduce oils. This means that you may already be struggling with skin concerns even without your natural cycle. 

Your diet can also affect your skin. Eating lots of processed foods and drinking alcohol can cause inflammation in the body that make skin problems, such as acne, worse. Weight loss can also make the skin unhealthy, especially if you are not making sure to get all the vitamins and healthy fats you need.

Why do I get acne before my period?

The hormones estrogen and progesterone fluctuate throughout the 28-day menstrual cycle. These hormones can cause acne by increasing oil production and inflammation in the skin.  

The increased amount of oil in the skin (sebum) can mix with dead skin cells and bacteria to block pores causing pimples.  

People who have higher levels of androgens, such as people with polycystic ovaries, are more likely to suffer from acne.

Trans men may also notice an increase in acne during the first year of testosterone use.

How does my skin change throughout my cycle?

Your skin will change according to the fluctuations of hormones in the body. In most cases, you will experience some breakouts or sensitivity in the week leading up to your period and during the second week of your cycle. Your skin will look its best - glowing and bright - towards the middle of your cycle when your estrogen levels are at their peak. As you move towards the end of your cycle and your period, your skin may become oilier than normal and you may start to see some pimples or redness.

What other effects can my menstrual cycle have on my skin?

Some find that they do suffer from very dry skin during certain phases of their cycle. This is because estrogen also impacts the way our skin holds moisture. Consequently, if you already suffer from dry skin conditions, such as dermatitis or psoriasis, you may find that they worsen during the premenstrual phase.

Other people experience increased sweating during certain phases of the menstrual cycle.

Your period can also make your skin feel sensitive and reactive. You may find that your skin reacts badly to face creams and other cosmetic products during your premenstrual stage.

How can I care for my skin during my period?

·      Cleanse your skin at night using an oil-fighting cleanser or something containing salicylic acid.

·      You can also increase the number of times per week you exfoliate to help remove dead skin cells.

·      DO NOT over cleanse or over exfoliate – this will stress your skin may dry it out which can also lead to other types of spots.

·      Consider using a clay face mask to help clear out impurities.

·      Try to avoid using oily products, and make sure to wash off any makeup as soon as you can.

·      Consider seeing a dermatologist if you are suffering from painful or cystic acne during your period, as this can lead to permanent scarring if it is not properly treated.

If your skin is feeling dry or sensitive during your period:

·      Use skin-care products that contain calming, soothing, and anti-inflammatory ingredients such as green tea, oats, and aloe vera.

·      Keep hydrated from the inside and out – treat your face to a moisturizing facial and make sure you drink plenty of water.

·      Avoid using products that contain strong acids and other potent chemicals, these can dry your skin or cause reactions.

·      Try to avoid using oily products and makeup if possible, as the ingredients in these worsen reactions.

https://www.insider.com/how-your-period-affects-your-skin-hormonal-acne-treatment-2018-5

https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/beauty-hair/a32868/hormonal-skin-cycle/