How Your Skin Changes with Your Cycle (And What to Do About It)

Indulge Beauty
6 days ago
3 min read

If your skin feels like it has a mind of its own each month, you’re not alone. Hormonal fluctuations throughout your menstrual cycle can completely change how your skin looks and behaves. One week you’re glowing, and the next… spots, oil, puffiness, or dryness seem to take over.

It’s frustrating, but it’s also completely normal.

Once you understand the phases of your cycle, you can start working with your skin, rather than battling against it. You might even feel more in tune with your body overall. Here’s how your skin shifts through the month, and how to care for it in each phase.

1. Menstrual Phase (Days 1–5)

What’s happening: Your period arrives, and hormone levels (estrogen and progesterone) are at their lowest. You may feel a bit flat and tired, and your skin might feel drier, more sensitive, or dull.

What your skin needs: Hydration, nourishment, and a break from harsh products.

Skincare tips:

Use a gentle, creamy cleanser
Layer hydrating serums (like our Aspect Hydrating Serum)
Add a facial oil to lock in moisture
Avoid active ingredients like retinols or AHAs during this time

Salon support: A hydrating facial or LED light therapy can boost your glow and support cell turnover without stressing the skin.

Extra support: Warm, iron-rich foods like red meat or leafy greens can support blood loss and energy levels. Think slow-cooked meals, soups, and nourishing broths.

2. Follicular Phase (Days 6–14)

What’s happening: Estrogen begins to rise, helping your skin feel more balanced, fresh, and clear. This is usually the phase where things feel good again- your energy starts to climb too.

What your skin needs: Brightening and light exfoliation to keep your glow going.

Skincare tips:

Try a gentle exfoliant once or twice a week (try the Aspect Exfoliating Cleanser)
Add in a vitamin C serum for brightness
Stick with hydrating moisturisers and always use SPF (The Aspect Sheer Hydration Moisturiser is perfect for this phase)

Salon support: Book in for dermaplaning, brow shaping, or a glow facial to complement your skin’s natural radiance.

Extra support: Fiber-rich foods help clear excess estrogen and support your liver- add flaxseed, lentils, and fresh veg here. Antioxidants from berries and green tea will also keep your skin looking luminous.

3. Ovulation Phase (Around Day 14)

What’s happening: Estrogen peaks, and there’s a rise in luteinizing hormone and testosterone. This is mid-cycle, and when you’re most likely to feel vibrant, confident, and attractive. Your skin often reflects that with a natural glow.

What your skin needs: Maintenance and protection.

Skincare tips:

Keep your routine simple but consistent
Lock in hydration with hyaluronic acid (our Aspect Hydrating Serum is amazing)
Avoid overdoing actives- you don’t need much right now
Don’t skip sunscreen!

Salon support: This is a great time for express glow treatments, brow shaping, or tinting-anything that enhances that natural beauty.

Extra support: Your skin and body are at their peak- enjoy this energy! You might feel more social, creative, and outgoing, so if you’ve got events or photos, this is your best phase for them.

4. Luteal Phase (Days 15–28)

What’s happening: Progesterone rises and then drops, and PMS symptoms may creep in-irritability, fatigue, bloating, sugar cravings… sound familiar? Your skin may break out more, become oilier, puffier, or just feel out of whack.

This is when most people feel their skin is "the worst"- but again, it’s normal. You’re not doing anything wrong, and there’s nothing wrong with your skin. It’s simply responding to internal shifts.

What your skin needs: Calming, detoxifying support and a little extra love.

Skincare tips:

Double cleanse to avoid congestion
Use a purifying mask 1–2x a week (like a gentle clay)
Avoid picking- try spot treatments instead
Lymphatic drainage can help de-puff and move things along

Salon support: This is the perfect time to book in for a decongesting or lymphatic facial to reset your skin and calm inflammation. You can also do at-home Gua Sha, facial cupping, or a jade roller to help move fluid and support your lymphatic system.

Extra support:

Magnesium can help with cramps, mood, and sleep—think leafy greens, almonds, or a high-quality supplement
Iron-rich foods like red meat, lentils, or eggs can support fatigue
If you crave sugar or fats, reach for dark chocolate, nuts, or avocado instead of processed snacks
Drink plenty of water and herbal teas to help your body flush toxins

Your skin is a mirror of what’s happening inside. Learning to understand your cycle gives you power- not just for your skin, but for your energy, mood, and overall wellbeing.

If you're noticing recurring skin struggles around certain phases (like pre-period breakouts), that’s your body trying to tell you something. Start tracking your skin alongside your cycle- you might find it easier to anticipate and manage.

✨ Want to support your skin all cycle long? Book a tailored facial or pop in for skincare advice that works with your body.