Period skin: how to care for it during the menstrual cycle

During the menstrual cycle and menstruation, our skin is put to the test! Hormone variations during the cycle, and particularly during the flow, weaken the skin's constantly evolving cells. Skin and menstruation, what's the state of the face during and after menstruation?

Contents

What is menstrual skin?
What are the effects of menstruation on the skin?
Understanding skin changes at each stage of menstruation
What types of products should I use to care for my skin during my period?

What is menstrual skin?

Menstrual skin may refer to a quote or expression mentioned among friends, or to announce that you're menstruating, or to talk about a menstrual symptom. It can also meanacne, oily or dry skin. Don't forget that your epidermis is constantly changing during your cycles, and that changes in consistency and appearance are completely normal. During your period, your face will undergo a number of changes: here are a few tips to help you restore its radiance.

What are the effects of menstruation on the skin?

Menstruation is the cause of a number of menstrual disorders. The general condition of the epidermis is one of them. Hormones during the menstrual cycle play a decisive role in the visible state of the skin:

Acne and menstrual spots
excess sebum, oily skin
dry skin
dehydration
itching
blackheads
irregular skin texture

Understanding skin changes at each stage of the menstrual cycle

The face will reflect and react to every stage of the menstrual cycle. How can you identify the different phases of the cycle by observing your face?

Before menstruation: the arrival of oily skin

After ovulation and during premenstrual syndrome, fluctuating hormone levels, notablyestrogen, progesterone and testosterone, lead to excessive sebum production in women. During this phase, you may notice clogged pores, blackheads, pimples and skin that tends to be oilier than normal. Hormonal acne can also be seen in women who experience severe skin eruptions during this period.

During menstruation: dry, sensitive skin

As soon as your flow arrives, your face becomes more sensitive and drier. The grain of the epidermis becomes more visible, duller and less radiant. During this period, your hormones are at their lowest and your skin barrier is sensitized. Skin during menstruation is prone to inflammation, so it's important to moisturize without irritating it.

After your period: back to normal skin

After menstruation, we enter a pre-ovulatory phase. Skin becomes less dry, more radiant, smoother and less oily. Ovulation hormone levels begin to rise, and estrogen has an impact on skin cells, which become smoother, more resistant and more resilient to external aggression.

What kind of products should I choose for my skin during my period?

During menstruation, and at every phase of your menstrual cycle, it's important to take good care of your skin and follow these few tips:
If you suffer from cysts, cystic acne or scars, don't hesitate to consult your dermatologist or GP, who will advise you on the creams, serums, masks or other beauty treatments to use for your skin during your period. Your women's health professional can also prescribe hormone therapy or dietary supplements.
In general, use creams and masks that work well for you. Adapting your beauty routine can not only help you live through your menstrual cycles, but also gently treat the imperfections of "menstrual skin", particularly oily skin.

Beginning of menstruation: what routine for oily skin?

You can deep-cleanse your imperfections by using gentle exfoliating treatments morning and night to unclog pores and prevent the build-up of excess sebum. At this point, you need to open the pores and dry out any excess oil. Avoid using too much make-up or foundation, which can clog pores. Prefer gel textures to oils, and don't forget to rinse with water or a gentle cleanser. Never use irritating substances that could sensitize your face to the sun. Use sunscreen for optimum protection. If you notice the appearance of other symptoms or excessive discomfort, consult a dermatologist!

During menstruation: Purify and moisturize!

This is the time to revitalize your skin and body by drinking plenty ofwater and eating fiber-rich fruit and vegetables. Apply a detox and beauty routine to your body. Don't hesitate to use exfoliants containingsalicylic acid. Avoid waxing, preferring a good hammam and relaxation! You can use a nourishing, moisturizing cream and a gentle cleanser on a daily basis to avoid accentuating the dryness and dehydration of the upper layer of the epidermis.

End of menstrual cycle: moisturize and enjoy

After the menstrual period, use natural and/or organic products such as coconut oil, a vitamin C serum and moisturizing masks that will bring oxygen to your epidermis to deeply moisturize it without making it greasy and restore its health.

Period skin FAQs

How do I cleanse my skin during my period?

During your period, you can cleanse your face with mild soaps that are as pH-neutral as possible. Don't hesitate to use natural products to moisturize your skin.