Be Aware of What Is Going on Inside You

Understanding how hormones affect the skin is essential for adjusting a skincare routine accordingly.

Hormones influence the skin differently throughout the month, making it beneficial to align skincare with these changes. Below is a simplified guide to syncing skincare routines with the monthly cycle.

Before diving into the details, here are three key points to consider:

1. Women are cyclical beings and thrive on flexible routines.

2. Changes occur throughout the month based on hormone cycles and natural rhythms.

3. External factors, such as seasons and life phases, further influence hormonal patterns.

Recognizing these factors can help manage the skin’s fluctuating needs and maintain a healthy glow.

Understanding Skin Phases During the Monthly Cycle

Week 1 – Dry Phase: The Cycle’s Winter Season (Period)

The cycle begins during the period, often marked by dry, dull, and sensitive skin due to the lowest levels of estrogen. The body expends energy shedding the uterine wall, which can leave the skin and mood more sensitive.

Key Tips for the Winter Season:

- Be gentle with skincare routines and avoid harsh products.

- Prioritize calming and hydrating products.

- Avoid exfoliation or invasive treatments.

- Incorporate warm, nourishing foods to support overall well-being.

During this phase, focus on rest and rejuvenation while choosing treatments that soothe and hydrate.

Week 2 – Improving Phase: The Cycle’s Spring Season (Follicular Phase)

As estrogen levels rise after the period, the skin begins to improve in color and hydration. This is the perfect time to introduce brightening and exfoliating products.

Key Tips for the Spring Season:

- Introduce gentle exfoliation, retinol, and brightening products.

- Consider treatments like light therapy, chemical peels, or microneedling.

- Focus on light, energizing foods with healthy fats-to support hormone production.

This phase is ideal for upgrading skincare routines to enhance the skin's renewal process.

Week 3 – Glowing Phase: The Cycle’s Summer Season (Ovulation)

Dear Lykkers, during ovulation, estrogen surges, leading to hydrated, glowing skin with smaller pores. Collagen production also peaks, making this a great time for anti-aging treatments.

Key Tips for the Summer Season:

- Use collagen-boosting products and lighter moisturizers.

- Avoid harsh resurfacing treatments like peels or lasers to prevent pigmentation issues.

- Emphasize high-protein and healthy fat-intake for collagen and hormone support.

This is the time to enjoy naturally glowing skin while maintaining a simple, protective routine.

Week 4 – Oily Phase: The Cycle’s Autumn Season (Luteal Phase)

As estrogen declines and testosterone levels rise, the skin tends to produce more oil, leading to breakouts and larger pores. Fluid retention may also cause puffiness.

Key Tips for the Autumn Season:

- Focus on oil control with gentle exfoliation and anti-acne products.

- Avoid picking at the skin to prevent further irritation.

- Choose foods like complex carbohydrates, brassica vegetables, and natural sweeteners.

- Incorporate calming beverages like spearmint tea and celery juice.

Maintaining a balanced routine during this phase can help manage breakouts and keep the skin feeling fresh.

Tracking Skin Changes for a Personalized Routine

Monitor your skin weekly to observe patterns and adjust your routine accordingly. If irregular cycles persist, consider consulting a professional to address possible hormonal imbalances. Syncing skincare with the cycle fosters a deeper connection with your body and promotes healthier, radiant skin throughout the month.