As a consultant dermatologist with extensive experience in managing acne and other skin conditions, I understand how menstrual cycles can significantly impact your skin. Fluctuating hormones during your period can cause various skin issues, from increased oiliness and acne breakouts to heightened sensitivity and dryness. Here are some expert tips to help you navigate period skincare and maintain a clear, healthy complexion.

Understand the Hormonal Cycle

The first step in managing period-related skin issues is understanding how your menstrual cycle affects your skin. Hormones like oestrogen and progesterone fluctuate throughout the month, influencing oil production, skin hydration, and inflammation levels. Typically, the luteal phase (the two weeks leading up to your period) sees an increase in progesterone, which can cause sebaceous glands to produce more oil. This can lead to clogged pores and acne breakouts. Conversely, during your period, oestrogen levels drop, potentially making your skin more sensitive and prone to dryness. 

Tailor Your Skincare Routine

Adapting your skincare routine to your hormonal cycle can make a significant difference. Here’s a week-by-week guide:

Week 1: Menstruation
During your period, your skin might be more sensitive. Focus on gentle, hydrating products that won’t irritate your skin. Use a mild cleanser and a soothing, non-comedogenic moisturiser. Avoid harsh exfoliants and treatments that could exacerbate sensitivity.

Week 2: Follicular Phase
As oestrogen levels begin to rise, your skin’s hydration improves, and oil production decreases. This is a good time to use products that support hydration and repair. Consider incorporating a hyaluronic acid serum and a light exfoliant to help keep your skin smooth and radiant.

Week 3: Ovulation
Your skin is often at its best during ovulation, thanks to a peak in oestrogen. Continue with your hydrating routine and consider adding antioxidants, such as vitamin C, to protect your skin from environmental stressors and boost radiance.

Week 4: Luteal Phase
As progesterone increases, oil production ramps up. To prevent breakouts, incorporate salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide into your routine to keep pores clear. Be mindful of your diet and try to reduce your intake of sugary foods, as these can exacerbate acne.

Seek Help Early

It’s crucial to seek professional help early, especially if your breakouts are becoming more extensive, affecting your mental health, confidence, or self-esteem, causing scarring or marking to the skin, or if you experience changes in circumstances like coming off the combined oral contraceptive pill, pregnancy acne, perimenopause, or undergoing treatments like egg freezing or IVF. Early intervention can prevent long-term skin damage such as scarring and help maintain your confidence. If your acne is spreading to new areas such as your chest, back, and shoulders, or if the severity of your breakouts is increasing, it’s time to seek help.

Consult an Expert

When dealing with hormonal acne, it’s important to consult a dermatologist who understands the hormonal impacts on the skin and takes a full lifestyle approach. At Self London, we pride ourselves on providing expert-led care that addresses all aspects of skin health. We have a comprehensive range of treatments available to manage breakouts, from skincare advice and prescription treatments to advanced procedures like laser, chemical peels, and other targeted therapies.

Consistency is Key

Consistency is key to managing period-related skin issues. Stick to a regular skincare routine and avoid the temptation to over-treat your skin when a breakout occurs. Overusing acne treatments can lead to irritation and worsen your skin’s condition. Instead, use targeted treatments sparingly and give them time to work.

Manage Stress

Stress can exacerbate skin issues, especially during your period. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises to keep stress levels in check. Adequate sleep is also crucial for maintaining healthy skin, so aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Consider working with a clinical psychologist who has a specialist interest in skin and body image if you find you are spending many hours of the day worrying about break-outs.

Dietary Considerations

What you eat can have an impact on your skin’s health. During your period, aim to eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Foods high in antioxidants, such as berries, leafy greens, and nuts, can help combat inflammation and support skin health. Additionally, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is essential for keeping your skin plump and radiant.

Professional Treatments

If you find that your period significantly impacts your skin and at-home treatments aren’t enough, consider professional treatments. At Self London, we understand the hormonal impacts on the skin and take a full lifestyle approach, offering a comprehensive range of treatments including laser for acne (which is completely drug-free), peels, and prescription creams and tablets tailored to individual needs.

Listen to Your Skin

Finally, it’s important to listen to your skin and adjust your routine as needed. Everyone’s skin is unique, and what works for one person might not work for another. Pay attention to how your skin reacts to different products and treatments, and don’t hesitate to make changes if something isn’t working.

Get Expert Advice

Being proactive and getting the right advice is better than trial and error from the internet, social media sites, and brands which are ultimately there to sell. A dermatologist who understands the hormonal impacts on the skin can offer a personalised treatment plan that includes skincare advice, professional treatments, and lifestyle recommendations. At Self London, we take pride in providing expert-led, patient-centric care to help you achieve and maintain healthy, radiant skin.

Recognise Important Changes and Life Events

Certain life events and changes in circumstances can have a significant impact on your skin. For example, if you are thinking of coming off the combined oral contraceptive pill, you may be worried about an acne flare-up. Similarly, acne in pregnancy, life changes such as perimenopause, or undergoing treatments like egg freezing or IVF can all affect your skin. It’s important to seek expert advice in these situations to manage your skin effectively and prevent long-term damage.

Full Scale of Tools Available

At Self London, we offer a full scale of tools to manage breakouts and maintain healthy skin. Our treatments range from skincare advice and prescription creams and tablets to advanced procedures like laser, chemical peels, and other targeted therapies. We take a holistic approach to skincare, addressing all aspects of your lifestyle to ensure the best possible outcomes for your skin. We are also equipped to manage the residual scarring acne may leave behind.

Final Thoughts

Period-related skin issues can be a significant challenge, but with the right approach, you can manage them effectively. By understanding the hormonal changes that affect your skin, tailoring your skincare routine accordingly, and seeking professional advice when needed, you can keep your skin looking and feeling its best. Remember, early intervention and a holistic approach to skincare are key to preventing long-term damage and maintaining your confidence. If you’re struggling with period-related skin issues, don’t hesitate to seek expert advice from a dermatologist who can offer a comprehensive, personalised treatment plan. With the right care and attention, you can achieve a healthy, radiant complexion all month long.

Inspiring skin confidence with Hertility and Self London

Hertility and Self London are collaborating to give you absolute clarity into what’s going on inside your body and inspire skin confidence. We’re working with patients to uncover how hormones impact not only our reproductive health but also our skin’s natural glow.
Discover the partnership