How Your Hormones Affect Your Skin Before, During and After Your Period

If you’re like most people, your skin probably has good days and not-so-good ones—but why? Sure, factors like stress, the foods you eat and the products in your regimen all make a difference. But your hormones also play a major role. No one knows this better than board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist Rebecca Booth, M.D. An author, expert in hormonal wellness, and co-founder of the anti-aging skin care line VENeffect, Dr. Booth joins us as part of our Doctor’s Office series to demystify how monthly hormone fluctuations show up on your skin.  

Each day of the menstrual cycle is a reflection of different levels of the “big three” hormones: estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. Not only are women designed to have these levels fluctuate, but their relationship varies each day as well, influencing how you look and feel. The key is to understand why they fluctuate and what we can do to take charge of these variations.

Days 1–7: Menstruation, the “Reset” of the Cycle

Cycle day 1 is the first day of the period, and the three major female hormones (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone) are all low on this day. Estrogen and testosterone slowly begin to rise most notably by cycle day three.

How do your hormones affect the way you look and feel this week?

The big three reproductive hormones support mood and metabolism and impact your skin. Estrogen’s low point on days 1–3 of the cycle leads to less stimulation of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid—that dewy substance that gives skin its glow.

How should you adjust your regimen?

• Use a moisturizer rich in phytoestrogens, plant-based estrogens found in the nuts, seeds and bark of the healthiest plants. These ingredients safely and effectively mimic estrogen’s effect on skin, improving elasticity, clarity and luminosity. Don’t skimp on cleansing, exfoliating and moisturizing your skin during this week.
• Increase your consumption of plant protein, especially in the morning, including nuts, nut butters, chickpeas (hummus) or edamame.
• Drink more water. Skin needs water to maintain elasticity, so drink up and avoid excess caffeine, which can dehydrate the body, causing dullness in skin.
• Definitely avoid sugar and simple carbs in this part of the cycle—it will make estrogen-deprived skin even more susceptible to blemishes and acne.

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