How your hormones affect your skin
We’ve all been up close in the mirror getting a good look at any acne and blemishes on our face, and wondering why they appear and how to fix it, right?
Changes in your skin can be frustrating and hard to deal with. It can affect your mood, confidence and in some cases, your social life.
Understanding the relationship between hormones and skin is crucial for anyone looking to maintain healthy and vibrant skin throughout different life stages.
Today, we’re diving into the world of hormones and how they affect your skin.
Four ways hormone changes can affect your
1. Puberty
The surge in hormonal activity during adolescence, particularly increased oil production, often leads to acne.
2. Menstrual cycle
Menstrual cycles bring about hormonal fluctuations, influencing skin conditions such as period-related acne.
3. Pregnancy
Pregnancy hormones introduce a range of skin changes. While some experience the famed "pregnancy glow," others may have to contend with pigmentation or acne.
4. Stress
Stress hormones can disrupt the skin's balance, contributing to issues like breakouts and dullness.
Your skin during different stages of your menstrual cycle
The menstrual cycle has various hormonal changes that can affect your skin in different ways.
Menstruation (Days 1-5):
In the initial phase of your menstrual cycle, hormone levels, including oestrogen and progesterone, are at a low point. This can result in skin dryness and lacklustre appearance, emphasising the visibility of lines and wrinkles.
Boosting your skin with moisturisation and hydration can help during these early cycle days.
Follicular (Days 6-14):
During the follicular phase, oestrogen levels gradually increase. Your skin tends to be in optimal condition during this period, with reduced likelihood of irritation.
Around the ninth day of the menstrual cycle, as oestrogen levels climb, you may find your skin to have a more radiant glow.
Testosterone levels also start to rise. This results in heightened natural moisture and collagen production, strengthening and enhancing the elasticity of your skin.
Ovulation (Days 15-17):
Around day 14 of your cycle is when ovulation occurs. Your skin is likely to display clarity and radiance during the following five days until a decline in testosterone and oestrogen.
As progesterone levels increase, your skin may also become a little oilier.
Luteal (Days 18-28):
The luteal phase marks the peak in progesterone, causing an increased production of sebum by your oil glands. Hormonal acne commonly emerges during this time, just before your period arrives.
Whether you're in the teen years or beyond, hormones can throw some serious curveballs at your complexion. By learning about your skin and how it changes throughout your cycle and other life events, you can start to tailor your skincare regime to tackle everything your hormones throw at you.