“Your skin is the largest organ in your body and is part of the endocrine system. Your skin and hair are affected by hormones. These changes are triggered by fluctuating levels of oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone,” Dr Mpume Zenda aka Dr Gyae, an Obstetrician - Gynaecologist and Sexologist, explains.
Puberty causes a surge of testosterone, which directly affects the health of your skin and hair. More testosterone causes your follicles to ramp up production of sebum, an oily substance that normally helps clear out dead skin and impurities from your pores (i.e., follicles).
“With more and more sebum in the follicle, the dead skin cells can’t easily move to the surface, creating whiteheads and blackheads. Dead skin and sebum provides an environment for the bacteria that live on your skin to proliferate, creating an infectious response in your body that leads to the red, swollen inflammation associated with acne,” says Dr Zenda.
What can you do to keep your skin and hair healthy at different times of your cycle?
1. During menstruation (the first week of your cycle)
Oestrogen and progesterone are low at this time. This causes dry, dull skin and can make lines or wrinkles appear more obvious. This sudden drop in oestrogen can cause your hair to enter the shedding phase too quickly, causing a common, temporary type of hair loss during your period called telogen effluvium (TE). Hair breakage, split ends and loss of shine are common at this stage.
Try these tips from Dr Zenda:
- Be generous with moisturisers and hydrating hair products. They are great skin and hair boosters.
- Wash your face twice a day and regularly wash your hands, as this helps protect your skin from bacteria and possible skin infections.
- Reduce the amount of sugar and carbohydrates in your diet as this will help prevent breakouts.
- Get professional facial treatments – avoid self-treatment and consult with a dermatologist or cosmetician for guidance on menstrual cycle-related skin issues and recommend treatments, masks, massages, or other remedies.
2. During the follicular and ovulation phases
Oestrogen levels rise by the ninth day of the menstrual cycle, peaking by day 15 (ovulation). You may notice a glow on your skin and hair. This is also when testosterone levels will begin to rise. Your skin experiences more natural moisture and collagen production, which will make your skin stronger and more elastic. Continue to nourish your skin and hair with your daily skin and hair care routine.
3. During the luteal or premenstrual phase
This phase is like the winter season of your cycle. Initially, progesterone is at its peak and may lead to or exacerbate acne, or skin conditions like psoriasis, atopic eczema and irritant dermatitis.
Prior to menstruation, hair becomes naturally oilier due to the high levels of circulating male hormones, in particular testosterone. This can cause the hair to look ‘greasier’ in the lead up to your period.
Dr Zenda suggests adopting the following habits during this time, over and above your routine skin and hair care routine:
- Avoid processed and salty foods or snacks, as these will cause more bloating, make your skin and hair feel drier, and worsen breakouts.
- Avoid touching your face and resist picking blackheads, whiteheads, acne, or any other skin irritation that occurs.
- Try to avoid heavy makeup in order to allow your skin to breathe.
- Focus on skincare products made to treat acne.
- Try to minimise sugar and caffeine intake.
“Your menstrual cycle influences your overall mood, energy levels, and the condition of your hair and skin. Learning the rhythm of your cycle and adjusting your diet, skin and hair care routines can keep your skin and hair in great condition, despite intense hormonal changes,” says Dr Zenda.
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