Skin Cycle Care: Syncing Skincare With Your Menstrual Cycle

Gone are the days of a one-size-fits-all skincare regimen; syncing your routine with your menstrual cycle is gaining traction as a revolutionary approach to achieving radiant and balanced skin. Specifically, enter the concept of ‘cycle syncing’ – this method involves tailoring your skincare routine to align with the natural fluctuations in hormones throughout your monthly cycle. While many may not realise it, our skin experiences various changes in oil production, tone, and texture as our hormones ebb and flow.

It may merely sound like another skincare trend at best, but there is actually more to cycle syncing – it’s a science-backed strategy that recognises the hormone-skin connection. For those who experience recurring skin concerns throughout their menstrual cycle, such as hormonal acne or increased oiliness, adjusting skincare routines accordingly can yield favourable results. By strategically incorporating different skincare ingredients and techniques at specific times of the month, you can take advantage of the power of alpha or beta-hydroxy acids to combat pre-menstrual breakouts or indulge in hydrating moisturisers during times when hormones are low, so your skin receives the targeted care it craves.

The menstrual cycle and intra-cycle hormonal changes

To grasp the significance of aligning skincare with the menstrual cycle, it’s essential to understand how hormonal changes affect the skin;

Follicular phase – 1st part (menstruation)

During the menstrual phase, characterised by low oestrogen and progesterone levels, the skin tends to lose its lustre and vitality. With decreased hormonal support, it may appear dull, dry, and fatigued. Elevated levels of prostaglandins during menstruation can further exacerbate sensitivity, making the skin more prone to irritation.

To counter these effects, it’s advisable to adapt your skincare routine accordingly. Opt for richer face oils or creams to replenish lost moisture and nourish your skin deeply. Hydrating facial masks can also provide a much-needed boost of hydration and revitalisation. Steer clear of harsh exfoliating products during this phase, as they may exacerbate dryness and sensitivity. Similarly, avoid products that are known to be sensitising or drying, opting instead for gentle, soothing formulations that support the skin’s natural barrier.

Follicular phase – 2nd part (post-menstruation)

Oestrogen levels begin to rise post-menstruation, marking a period where the skin is at its prime. With oestrogen’s ascent, the skin experiences a natural glow, as this hormone aids in moisture retention and leaves the skin deeply hydrated and supple. Furthermore, the surge in oestrogen during this phase also sparks collagen production, imparting a firmer and more resilient appearance to the skin. This combination of increased hydration and enhanced collagen production creates the ideal environment for radiant, youthful-looking skin, making the follicular phase a favourable time to focus on nourishing and revitalising skincare routines. This is also a good time to try new skincare products and treatments as the skin is less sensitive during this period of time.

Ovulatory phase

The ovulatory phase consists of a peak of oestrogen levels and an accompanying small surge in testosterone levels. This triggers ovulation, marking a significant point in the menstrual cycle. However, the increase in testosterone can also lead to heightened sebum production in some individuals, potentially resulting in breakouts. As such, it’s not uncommon for women to experience acne flare-ups around this time.

To pre-emptively address the possibility of increased oiliness and pore congestion, incorporating exfoliating agents such as alpha-hydroxy and beta-hydroxy acids into the skincare routine can be beneficial. These exfoliants help to slough off dead skin cells, prevent the buildup of debris within the pores, and maintain skin clarity and smoothness – all of these ensure a radiant complexion throughout the ovulatory phase.

Luteal phase – 1st part

During the initial stages of the luteal phase, the rising levels of progesterone play a role in preparing the body for potential pregnancy. However, this increase in progesterone can also have notable effects on the skin. As progesterone levels increase, the skin may experience swelling, leading to the closure of pores and the accumulation of sebum beneath the skin’s surface. This build-up of sebum sets the stage for the development of inflammatory acne lesions, exacerbating skin concerns during this phase. Alongside the rise in progesterone, there may also be further increase in estradiol levels, further influencing the skin’s response.

Luteal phase – 2nd part (pre-menstrual)

The latter stages of the luteal phase (i.e. just before menstruation), oestrogen and progesterone levels decline rapidly, while testosterone levels remain relatively stable. As testosterone becomes the dominant hormone during this time, there is an uptick in sebum production, which can lead to increased pore congestion and breakouts.

To address these concerns effectively, it’s crucial to focus on eliminating excess oil without triggering inflammation. Non-comedogenic and anti-inflammatory products, like Niacinamide, can help rebalance oil production and reduce skin inflammation, promoting clearer and calmer skin. Additionally, stepping up exfoliation to two to three times a week can help counteract congestion, while scheduling facials during this phase can further aid in reducing pore blockages. It’s also advisable to avoid aesthetic treatments that may potentially trigger more acne breakouts during this sensitive time of the month.

How to adjust your skincare at a glance

Day 1 to 6 (All hormones low): As skin tends to be dry and lacklustre during this phase, it would be best to use a serum or moisturiser rich in hyaluronic acid and incorporating calming agents such as niacinamide.
Day 7 to 11 (Oestrogen production): The surge in oestrogen causes skin cell turnover but skin is also at its best and most radiant. This is the time to try new treatments or skincare as the skin is least sensitive.
Day 12 to 16 (Oestrogen peaks): The skin is typically glowing and radiant at this stage but there can also be a possibility of mid-cycle acne as testosterone also increases during this time of the month; hence, use natural retinol alternatives and peptides to keep the skin plump and also start incorporating more exfoliating agents.
Day 17 to 24 (progesterone peaks): As progesterone levels increase, the skin becomes oily with tight pores. Using a clay mask helps to draw out impurities and soak up excess oil.
Day 25 to 28 (testosterone takes over): With hormonal acne developing at this stage, you may use salicylic acid to kill bacteria, clear pores, and prevent breakouts.

Conclusion

It’s evident that the skin undergoes significant changes driven by the fluctuating levels of testosterone, progesterone, and oestrogen throughout the menstrual cycle. By understanding and adapting your skincare routine to accommodate these hormonal shifts, you can effectively improve overall skill health and maintain a radiant complexion despite intense hormonal changes.

If you’re seeking personalised skincare solutions or assistance with managing hormonal-related skin concerns, Angeline Yong Dermatology, a leading dermatology clinic, offers comprehensive services tailored to your individual needs. With advanced treatments such as PicoWay and PicoSure lasers, as well as various skin health treatments such as hydrafacial and chemical peels in Singapore available, you can trust Dr Angeline Yong’s expertise to help you achieve and maintain healthy, glowing skin throughout your menstrual cycle and beyond. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today for expert guidance!

Use of this website signifies your agreement to The Terms of Use & Privacy Policy

Terms of Use

You are deemed to have entered into an agreement with Angeline Yong Dermatology and to have agreed to be bound by the terms set out below by accessing ayd.com.sg (“the Sites”) or by otherwise accessing any content found on this web site. By accessing or using the Site, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed, without limitation or qualification, to be bound by these Terms & Conditions. The Site is owned and operated by Angeline Yong Dermatology.

Intellectual Property Protection
Use of Angeline Yong Dermatology Content
Changes to the Site
Privacy Policy
No Warranty, Disclaimer of Liability and Indemnity
Force Majeure
Miscellaneous
Governing Law and Jurisdiction

Intellectual Property Protection

The contents and design of the Site and any material e-mailed to you or otherwise supplied to you in conjunction with the Site (such contents, design and materials being collectively referred to as the “Angeline Yong Dermatology Content”, are copyright of Angeline Yong Dermatology. You may not use or reproduce or allow anyone to use or reproduce any trademarks (such as ” Angeline Yong Dermatology” name and logo or other trade names appearing on the Site) for any reason without written permission from Angeline Yong Dermatology. The software, which operates the Site, is proprietary software and you may not use it except as expressly allowed under these Terms. You may not copy, modify, reverse engineer or otherwise interfere with the software.

Use of Angeline Yong Dermatology Content

You may retrieve and display the Angeline Yong Dermatology Content on a computer screen or mobile telephone, print individual pages on paper (but not photocopy them) and store such pages in electronic form for your personal, non-commercial use. You may not save or post any of the Content on blogs, Facebook, and other websites that allows viewing by the general public without written permission from Angeline Yong Dermatology. Except as expressly set out above, you may not reproduce, modify or in any way commercially exploit any of the Angeline Yong Dermatology Content.

Changes to the Site

Angeline Yong Dermatology reserves the right to change, modify, suspend, add or remove portions of the Angeline Yong Dermatology Content available on the Site at any time and to restrict the use and accessibility of the Site in its discretion and without prior notification.

Privacy Policy

The information that you provide about yourself and your company to Angeline Yong Dermatology will only be used in accordance with Angeline Yong Dermatology’s Privacy Policy Statement. We will:

retain your information only for as long as there is a business need
take reasonable steps to ensure that the information is accurate, adequate, relevant and up to date.
update or correct your information held by us whenever necessary
take appropriate measures to prevent and minimize risks of unauthorised access to the information

We may use your personal information, such as your name and contact details, for the following purposes:

to perform the services that you have requested, which may involve contacting you by telephone, mobile phone, fax machine, post or email, including sending you electronic direct mailers.
to allow us to promote our products, events and activities.

No Warranty, Disclaimer of Liability and Indemnity

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the high quality and accuracy of the Site, Angeline Yong Dermatology makes no warranty, express or implied, concerning the Angeline Yong Dermatology Content, the Site, software or products or services available through the Site (the “Site Services”), which are provided “as is”. Angeline Yong Dermatology expressly disclaims all warranties, including but not limited to warranties of fitness for a particular purpose and warranties of merchantability. In no event will Angeline Yong Dermatology, its affiliates or other suppliers be liable for direct, special, incidental, or consequential damages (including, without limitation, damages for loss of business profits, business interruption, loss of business information or other pecuniary loss) arising directly or indirectly from the use of (or failure to use) or reliance on the Site Services, even if Angeline Yong Dermatology and its affiliates has been advised of the possibility that such damages may arise.

Angeline Yong Dermatology does not guarantee the accuracy, content, or timeliness of the Site Services or that they or related systems are free from viruses or other contaminating or destructive properties. Angeline Yong Dermatology accepts no responsibility for the content on any site to which a hypertext link from this site exists. The links are provided “as is” with no warranty, express or implied for the information provided within them.

Upon accessing to this Site, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless Angeline Yong Dermatology and its affiliates from any claims and expenses, including reasonable legal fees, related to any breach of these Terms by you or your use of any Site Services.

Force Majeure

Angeline Yong Dermatology and its affiliates will not be liable or deemed to be in default for any delay or failure in performance or interruption of the delivery of the Angeline Yong Dermatology Content resulting directly or indirectly from any cause or circumstance beyond its or their reasonable control, including but not limited to failure of electronic or mechanical equipment or communication lines, telephone or other interconnect problems, computer viruses, unauthorized access, theft, operator errors, severe weather, earthquakes or natural disasters, strikes or other labour problems, wars, or government restrictions.

Miscellaneous

Changes to these Terms. Angeline Yong Dermatology may, in its discretion, change these Terms (including those relating to your use of Site and/or the Angeline Yong Dermatology Content. When Terms are changed, Angeline Yong Dermatology will notify you by email or by publishing details of those changes by including them in these Terms. If you use the Site after Angeline Yong Dermatology has published or notified you of the changes, you are agreeing now to be bound by those changes. If you do not agree to be bound by those changes, you should not use the Site any further after they are published. Access to certain areas of the Angeline Yong Dermatology Content may be subject to additional terms and conditions.

Advertising, Third Party Content and other Web Sites. Parts of the Site may contain advertising or other third-party content. Advertisers and other content providers are responsible for ensuring that material submitted for inclusion on the Site complies with international and national law. Angeline Yong Dermatology is not responsible for any third-party content or error, omission or inaccuracy in any advertising material. The Site may contain links to other web sites. Angeline Yong Dermatology is not responsible for the availability of these web sites or their contents.

Assignment of Agreement. This agreement is personal to you and your rights and obligations under these Terms may not be assigned, sub-licensed or otherwise transferred. This agreement may be assigned to a third party by Angeline Yong Dermatology and its affiliates.

Non-Waiver. No delay or omission on the part of either party in requiring performance by the other party of its obligations will operate as a waiver of any right.

Notices. Notices to Angeline Yong Dermatology and its affiliates must be given in writing by letter.

Severability/Survival/Statute of Limitations. If any provision of these Terms is invalid or unenforceable, such will not render all the Terms unenforceable or invalid but rather the Terms will be read and construed as if the invalid or unenforceable provision(s) are not contained therein. Any cause of action of yours with respect to these Terms must be filed in a court of competent jurisdiction in Singapore, within one year after the cause of action has arisen, or such cause will be barred, invalid, and void.

Whole Agreement. Save as expressly referred to herein, any representation, warranty, term or condition not expressly set out in these Terms shall not apply.

Headings. Headings in these Terms are for convenience only and have no legal meaning or effect.

Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These Terms shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with the Laws of the Republic of Singapore. The parties irrevocably agree that the courts of Singapore shall (subject to the paragraph below) have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute which may arise out of, under, or in connection with these Terms or the legal relationship established by them, and for those purposes irrevocably submit all disputes to the jurisdiction of Singapore courts. For the exclusive benefit of Angeline Yong Dermatology and its affiliates, Angeline Yong Dermatology and its affiliates shall retain the right to bring proceedings as to the substance of the matter in the courts of the country of your residence or, where these Terms are entered into in the course of your trade or profession, the country of your principal place of business.

Media.

Skin Cycle Care: Syncing Skincare With Your Menstrual Cycle