How To Manage Pre Menstrual Skin

How Hormones Affect Your Skin: Understanding Breakouts, Dryness and Skin Changes Through Every Stage of Life

Our hormones naturally change throughout life. Puberty, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopause and menopause all influence the way our skin looks and feels. These hormonal changes are completely normal, but they can sometimes leave you wondering why your skincare routine suddenly stops working or why your skin behaves differently from one week to the next.

For some people, hormonal fluctuations lead to increased oil production and blemishes. Others notice dryness, dehydration, changes in pigmentation or skin that feels more sensitive than usual. Every person's skin responds differently, which is why understanding what is happening beneath the surface can help you make better skincare choices.

According to John And Ginger's skincare specialist Alexandra Echeverri, one of the most common questions she receives is why breakouts seem to appear at the same time every month. While hormones are not the only cause of blemishes, changes during the menstrual cycle often influence oil production and skin sensitivity, making some people more likely to experience spots around the chin, jawline and neck.

Why Do Hormones Affect Your Skin?

Your skin contains receptors that respond to hormones circulating around your body. As hormone levels rise and fall, they can influence how much oil your skin produces, how quickly skin cells renew themselves, how well your skin retains moisture and how sensitive it becomes.

Several hormones play an important role in skin health.

• Oestrogen helps support skin hydration, elasticity and the skin's natural protective barrier.
• Progesterone may increase oil production in some people, particularly during the second half of the menstrual cycle.
• Androgens, including testosterone, can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil, increasing the likelihood of blocked pores and blemishes.
• Cortisol, often called the stress hormone, may contribute to increased oil production and inflammation during periods of prolonged stress.

These hormonal shifts are a normal part of life and do not always result in skin problems. Genetics, lifestyle, environment and your existing skincare routine all play a part in how your skin responds.

How Your Skin Changes Throughout the Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle consists of four stages, and each stage can affect your skin differently.

Menstruation

At the beginning of your period, oestrogen and progesterone levels are at their lowest. Some people notice that their skin feels slightly drier or more sensitive during this time, making gentle cleansing and regular moisturising particularly important.

Follicular Phase

As oestrogen levels gradually increase after your period, many people find that their skin becomes more balanced. It may feel smoother, more comfortable and less prone to irritation.

Ovulation

Around the middle of the cycle, hormone levels continue to change. Some people begin to notice increased oil production as androgen activity rises. If you are naturally prone to blemishes, this may be the time to pay extra attention to keeping pores clear.

Luteal Phase

The week or so before your next period is when many hormonal breakouts develop. Higher progesterone levels, together with changes in androgen activity, can increase oil production and encourage blocked pores. This is why blemishes often appear around the chin, jawline and neck before menstruation begins.

A helpful habit is to track your menstrual cycle using a calendar or period tracking app. If your skin tends to change at the same time each month, you can adapt your skincare routine before breakouts develop rather than waiting until they appear.

Choosing Ingredients That Support Blemish-Prone Skin

Rather than switching your entire skincare routine every month, introducing targeted ingredients during the stages when your skin needs extra support can be an effective approach.

Salicylic Acid is a beta hydroxy acid that is oil soluble, allowing it to work inside the pores where excess oil and dead skin cells can collect. It helps keep pores clearer and is commonly included in products designed for blemish-prone skin.

Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is a versatile skincare ingredient that helps support the skin barrier, balance excess oil in some skin types and visibly calm redness associated with blemishes. It is also widely used to improve overall skin tone following spots.

Many skincare routines combine these ingredients because they work well together, helping to maintain clearer looking skin while supporting a healthy skin barrier.

Hormonal Skin Changes During Pregnancy, Perimenopause and Menopause

Hormonal skin changes are not limited to the menstrual cycle. Pregnancy can lead to increased sensitivity, pigmentation changes and fluctuations in oil production. During perimenopause and menopause, falling oestrogen levels often contribute to dryness, thinner looking skin and reduced elasticity. A skincare routine that focuses on gentle cleansing, regular moisturising and daily sun protection can help support your skin through these natural life stages.

Lifestyle Habits That Can Support Healthy Skin

Skincare products are only one part of looking after your skin. Everyday habits also play an important role.

• Get enough sleep each night to support your body's natural repair processes.
• Manage stress through activities such as walking, yoga, mindfulness or other forms of relaxation that you enjoy.
• Drink enough water to stay hydrated.
• Eat a balanced diet containing plenty of fruit, vegetables and healthy fats.
• Avoid picking blemishes, as this can increase irritation and the likelihood of marks remaining after the spot has healed.
• Clean items that regularly touch your face, including mobile phones, makeup brushes and pillowcases.

If you are considering magnesium supplements or topical magnesium products to support relaxation or sleep, it is worth discussing this with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns. While some people find them helpful, research into sleep benefits is still ongoing.

Remember That Hormonal Skin Changes Are Normal

Experiencing the occasional breakout or noticing changes in your skin throughout life is completely normal. Understanding the connection between hormones and your skin allows you to make informed decisions about your skincare routine instead of reacting to every new blemish.

If your skin changes are persistent, severe or have developed suddenly, it is always advisable to seek advice from your GP or a dermatologist, as some skin concerns may require medical assessment.

With a consistent skincare routine, suitable ingredients and healthy daily habits, it is possible to keep your skin comfortable and support a clearer, healthier looking complexion throughout every stage of life.