There’s nothing worse than perfecting your skincare routine, only to have it completely disrupted by your monthly cycle.
Breakouts, oiliness, dryness and textural changes can all occur as a result of the hormones that flood your body during your period, but with so many different things to try and plan for, it can feel like a never ending battle trying to keep your skin looking its best.
Carly Cochrane, beauty expert atCosmetify, has given us the low down on exactly how to synch your skincare routine to each unique phrase of your cycle, and which skincare staples can help banish period skin struggles for good.
Menstruation Phase: Days 1-7
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Starting with the very beginning of your cycle, the menstruation phase is when you actually have your period.
Carly said: “During this time, both estrogen and progesterone levels are low because the egg hasn't been fertilised. When both these hormones are low, your oil production and skin barrier function is also low – meaning heightened sensitivity and dehydration.
“Thicker creams, face oils and hydrating serums really douse the skin in moisture. Cut out, or at least cut down on, harsh actives and exfoliators whilst your skin is more prone to irritation, redness and drying out. You definitely don't want to be stripping it even more!”
That means during your first week you want to be adding as much extra moisture to your skin, and leaving the heavy duty acids and exfoliants for later phases. Carly recommends using:
The Ordinary’s 100% Organic Virgin Chia Seed Oil, £7.92 here
Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference Refining Moisture Cream, £18.64 here (was £37)
Follicular Phase: Days 7-14
The follicular phase of your cycle is when your eggs begin to mature in your ovaries, and you’ll see an increase in hormone levels, which is when your skin is at its best.
During this phase, Carly explains: “More oestrogen is produced and since oestrogen helps with collagen production, you'll see plump, hydrated and calm skin during this phase. The low oil production from the menstrual phase becomes more balanced too, decreasing dryness.
“During this safe haven, you just need to maintain your glowing complexion. We love ingredients like retinol, vitamin C and AHAs. It's also a great time to try out new products since your skin is as balanced and healthy as it's going to get all month.”
This is prime time for sticking to your skincare routine and making sure your skin is getting everything it needs to make the most of your natural glow. Carly recommends:
The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% In Squalane, £7.74 here
La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 Serum, £37 here (was £45)
Ovulation Phase
This is when your body releases an egg from your ovaries, and during this time your skin is prone to producing a lot more excess oil than usual, meaning you need to double down on keeping your skin cleansed whilst tackling additional shine.
Carly explained: “We like to prevent problems during the luteal phase by exfoliating to clear out our pores, thoroughly removing makeup to prevent clogging and using a lightweight moisturiser to stay hydrated without laying it on too thickly.”
Since the goal is smooth, glowing and hydrated without too much additional moisture, Carly suggests using:
Eucerin DermatoClean 3in1 Micellar Cleansing Fluid, £12.50 here
Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant, £13.99 here (was £18)
Luteal Phase: Days 15-28
The luteal phase is the final part of your cycle, and can last up to two weeks before you begin your period again, and this phase is when your skin has to handle the most challenges.
Carly said: “This phase is probably what you think of when you think of 'period skin'. Clogged pores, breakouts, sensitivity and redness, oh my! The increased oil production during this phase means you'll want to ramp up the oil-regulating products in your routine- but also don't over-do it and stress your skin out.”
Despite being the trickiest phase for your skin, you don’t need to give up hopes of a glowing, radiant complexion. Keep skin thoroughly cleansed and exfoliated, and don’t skip your moisturiser. Carly suggests adding these to your routine:
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, £11.46 here
ZOEVA Soft Rose Clay Mask, £12.35 here (was £26.50)
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