Your skin is one of the most visible indicators of what's happening inside your body, and your menstrual cycle plays a huge role. The rise and fall of hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone can directly impact your skin's oil production, hydration, and overall appearance.

During Your Period (Menstrual Phase)

At the start of your cycle, both estrogen and progesterone are low. This can cause your skin to feel dry, dull, and more sensitive. Your body also produces more prostaglandins, which can increase inflammation and make your skin feel more reactive.

Skincare Tip: Focus on hydration and gentle, soothing ingredients. Use a rich moisturizer and avoid harsh exfoliants or new products that could cause irritation.

Leading Up to Ovulation (Follicular Phase)

As your period ends, estrogen starts to rise. Estrogen promotes collagen production, improves skin thickness, and helps your skin retain moisture. This is when your skin is often at its best—plump, hydrated, and clear. You might notice that "ovulation glow."

Skincare Tip: This is a great time for exfoliation to maintain that glow. Your skin is more resilient, so you can incorporate active ingredients like retinoids or vitamin C.

After Ovulation (Luteal Phase)

This is where things can get tricky. After ovulation, progesterone levels rise. Progesterone can cause the skin to swell and compress pores. At the same time, this hormone increases sebum (oil) production. This combination of tight pores and excess oil creates the perfect environment for bacteria to get trapped, leading to those classic premenstrual breakouts, especially around the chin and jawline.

Skincare Tip: Focus on keeping pores clear. Use a gentle cleanser and consider incorporating products with salicylic acid (a BHA) to exfoliate inside the pores and reduce oiliness. Clay masks can also be helpful for absorbing excess sebum.