Introduction
Your skin tells the story of your hormones. From a radiant glow to unexpected breakouts, every hormonal change during your menstrual cycle affects your skin physiology, hydration, and texture.
Throughout the month, hormonal fluctuations influence sebaceous glands, collagen production, and blood flow, changing your skin texture and even your confidence. By understanding how your hormones shift during each menstrual phase, you can build a skincare routine that aligns with your body’s natural rhythm — keeping your complexion balanced and glowing all month long. 🌿
How Hormones Influence Skin Health
Your skin is closely connected to the endocrine system, which regulates hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and luteinizing hormone. These hormonal levels shift throughout your menstrual cycle, influencing how your skin barrier, moisture, and oil balance respond.
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Estrogen supports collagen production, skin elasticity, and skin hydration, keeping your skin plump and youthful.
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Progesterone stimulates sebaceous glands, which can increase oil production and lead to Hormonal Acne.
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Testosterone, though lower in women, can contribute to breakouts and butt acne when unbalanced.
The result? Visible changes in skin temperature, trans epidermal water loss, and even melanin production as your hormones rise and fall.
The Four Skin Phases of the Menstrual Cycle
🌙 Menstrual Phase (Days 1–5)
During your menstrual phase, both estrogen and progesterone are at their lowest. Your skin may feel dry or more sensitive due to reduced blood flow and slower collagen production.
Focus on repairing the skin barrier by using gentle, hydrating products. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C serums to restore skin hydration and brightness.
Avoid chemical peels or harsh acne treatments during this phase since skin sensitivity is heightened.
🌱 Follicular Phase (Days 6–14)
As your pituitary gland releases follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone, estrogen begins to rise. This increases skin blood flow, leading to a radiant, youthful glow.
Your skin’s hydration and elasticity peak during this time, and collagen production improves significantly. This is the perfect phase to focus on brightening and rejuvenating your skin care routine.
Use lightweight moisturizers and exfoliants with salicylic acid to gently unclog pores and maintain clarity.
Pro Tip: This is the ideal time for gentle chemical peels or topical medications like Benzoyl Peroxide if you’re treating mild Hormonal Acne — your skin is strong and resilient here.
🌸 Ovulatory Phase (Around Day 14)
During the ovulatory phase, estrogen peaks while luteinizing hormone triggers ovulation. Your skin often looks its healthiest — smooth, hydrated, and radiant. Increased blood flow gives your complexion a natural flush, and collagen production remains strong.
However, oil levels may start to increase due to hormonal stimulation of sebaceous glands. Maintain balance by using oil-free moisturizers and ensuring good skin hydration.
Self-Care Routine Tip: Stay hydrated and eat antioxidant-rich foods to support your immune system and maintain that natural post-ovulation glow.
🍂 Luteal Phase (Days 15–28)
The luteal phase brings higher progesterone and lower estrogen, causing hormonal changes that can lead to Hormonal Acne, oiliness, and increased skin sensitivity. Pores expand, skin temperature rises, and sweating rate may increase.
To manage this:
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Cleanse with gentle foaming washes to balance oil production.
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Incorporate salicylic acid or Benzoyl Peroxide to prevent clogged pores.
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Use calming moisturizers with hyaluronic acid to reduce inflammation.
If breakouts appear, focus on calming the skin rather than over-drying it — harsh acne treatments can worsen trans epidermal water loss and weaken your skin barrier.
Hormonal Health Tip: Practice stress management techniques like deep breathing or journaling. Stress elevates adrenal gland activity and cortisol, which can worsen Hormonal Acne.
Common Skin Concerns During Hormonal Fluctuations
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Hormonal Acne: Caused by excess oil production and hormonal fluctuations that stimulate sebaceous glands. Common around the luteal phase and before menstruation.
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Dryness and Dullness: Lower estrogen during your menstrual phase reduces skin hydration and elasticity.
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Increased Sensitivity: Shifts in hormone levels can weaken the skin barrier, leading to redness and irritation.
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Oily Skin: High progesterone in the luteal phase can cause overactive sebaceous glands.
Balanced hormones mean balanced skin — and your skincare routine can help support that harmony.
Tips for a Hormone-Friendly Skincare Routine
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Cleanse Gently: Avoid stripping oils that protect your skin barrier.
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Hydrate Daily: Use hyaluronic acid and light moisturizers to combat trans epidermal water loss.
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Treat Thoughtfully: Use salicylic acid or Benzoyl Peroxide for targeted Hormonal Acne treatment.
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Protect and Repair: Apply SPF daily and include vitamin C serums to improve skin texture and melanin production.
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Nourish from Within: Support your immune system with omega-rich foods and hydration for better skin elasticity.
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Embrace Clean Products: Use toxin-free menstrual care such as Reign cotton pads that align with your self-care routine and support reproductive health.
When Hormonal Acne Needs Extra Help
If your Hormonal Acne persists, consider speaking with your dermatologist about hormone testing or hormone replacement therapy to assess your hormonal levels. A professional may also recommend topical medications or diet adjustments to restore hormonal balance naturally.
The Reign Perspective
At Reign, we understand that true beauty starts with balance. Your skin reflects your inner wellness — and that begins with honoring your menstrual cycle and supporting your hormonal health naturally.
By using non-toxic, breathable menstrual products and building a skincare routine that evolves with your menstrual phases, you can protect your body, balance your hormones, and reveal your most confident, radiant self.
Because harmony isn’t just skin-deep — it’s hormonal. 💖