# How Does Your Skin Change With Your Menstrual Cycle?

- Page: https://www.carewithki.com/en/discover/how-does-your-skin-change-with-your-menstrual-cycle
- Published: 18 March 2026
- Topics: Acne, Skin Care
- Topic page: Menstrual Cycle and PMS https://www.carewithki.com/en/discover/topic/periods-and-pms
- Publisher: care with .ki (content principles: https://www.carewithki.com/en/editorial-policy)

![How Does Your Skin Change With Your Menstrual Cycle?](https://www.carewithki.com/blog/menstruel-dongunuze-gore-cildiniz-nasil-degisiyor.jpg)

> Why does your skin behave differently in the 4 phases of the menstrual cycle? Discover the effects of hormonal fluctuations on the skin.

## How does your skin change with your menstrual cycle?

Many of us notice that at certain times of the month our skin suddenly glows, and at other times it battles unexpected spots. This is no coincidence; our skin is really like a living diary of our hormonal cycle. These biological shifts between oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone govern everything from our skin's moisture level to its oil production.

Here are the changes you can expect in your skin in each phase of your cycle, with care tips you can apply both from the outside and from within:

### 1. Period (Days 1–6)

What Happens in the Skin? In this phase, oestrogen and progesterone levels are at their lowest. The skin barrier weakens and moisture loss increases. Your face may feel paler, drier and more sensitive than usual to external factors. Eczema/dermatitis can be triggered.

- Care From the Outside: Be gentle with your skin. Avoid aggressive peels. Saturate the skin with moisture using barrier-repairing products containing hyaluronic acid and ceramides.
- Support From Within: Because body temperature drops, you can soothe both your mind and your skin with herbal teas (fennel, chamomile).

### 2. Follicular Phase (Days 7–12)

What Happens in the Skin? The oestrogen that rises after your period triggers collagen and elastin production. This is your skin's "golden age". Pores tighten, the skin looks plumper and gains a natural glow.

- Care From the Outside: This is when your skin is at its most resilient. It is the best time to try new products, have professional facials or move on to products with active ingredients (such as vitamin C or starting retinol).

### 3. Ovulation (Days 13–16)

What Happens in the Skin? Oestrogen peaks, but it is accompanied by a slight rise in testosterone. Although the skin still looks very good, oil (sebum) production starts to speed up. A "nourishing" environment for bacteria forms. Because blood circulation in the skin increases, there will be a glow effect.

- Care From the Outside: Enjoy the glow, but pay more attention to cleansing your pores. Take care to use lightweight, oil-free moisturisers and sunscreens.

### 4. Luteal Phase (Days 17–28)

What Happens in the Skin? Progesterone rises. As a result of increased sebum, acne can form along the jaw and cheeks. Your skin is more reactive. Painful "PMS spots", especially along the jawline, and puffiness due to water retention are characteristic of this phase.

- Care From the Outside: Cleansers containing salicylic acid (BHA) or niacinamide can be your saviour. By preventing pores from clogging, you can minimise breakouts.
- Support From Within:
- Omega-3: By reducing inflammation, it helps spots come out less painful and less red.
- Zinc: The most powerful mineral for balancing oil production; it fights acne.
- [Magnesium](https://www.carewithki.com/en/discover/is-all-magnesium-the-same-which-magnesium-does-what) & B6: Balances the stress hormone cortisol and helps the body get rid of water retention.
- Nutrition: Stay away from foods with a high glycaemic index (sugary foods), because sugar directly causes spots by increasing androgens.
Listen to Your Skin:

Remember that every cycle is personal. Your skin is a map trying to tell you what is going on inside; instead of getting angry with it, try to understand what it needs. Before using supplements, don't forget to have your blood values checked and consult a specialist.

References

- Farage, M. A., et al. (2009). "Skin barrier and hormonal changes." International Journal of Cosmetic Science.
- Raghunath, R. S., et al. (2015). "The menstrual cycle and the skin." Clinical and Experimental Dermatology.
- Zouboulis, C. C. (2014). "Nutrients and skin: An overview." Clinics in Dermatology.
- American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) - Hormonal Acne Guidelines.

_This article is general information; it is not a diagnosis or treatment recommendation._