Skin During Your Menstrual Cycle: How to Care for It at Each Stage

Our menstrual cycle affects our skin in various ways due to the hormonal changes that occur in each phase. These changes can cause skin to become drier, oilier, or more sensitive, and learning to identify how your skin behaves at each stage is key to keeping it balanced and healthy. Below, we'll tell you how to care for your skin in each phase of your menstrual cycle.

1. Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5)

During menstruation, estrogen and progesterone levels are at their lowest, which can make your skin feel drier, duller, and even more sensitive than usual. It's important to focus on hydrating and soothing your skin during these days.

What to do: Use a gentle cleanser and a moisturizer that strengthens the skin barrier. You can add a hydrating or soothing serum, especially if your skin feels sensitive or tight. Nothing beats our AWA cleanser and our KAN soothing cream.

Recommended ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and centella asiatica to keep skin hydrated and reduce any potential irritation.

2. Follicular Phase (Days 6-13)

After menstruation, estrogen levels begin to rise, which promotes collagen and elastin production. Skin usually looks brighter and more balanced during this phase.

What to do: Take advantage of this time to introduce more active skincare products, such as exfoliants or treatment masks, that add radiance and improve skin texture. Don't hesitate to try our MIZU toner.

Recommended ingredients: Gentle exfoliating acids (AHAs and BHAs) to keep pores clean and peptides to strengthen the skin.

3. Ovulation Phase (Days 14-16)

In this phase, estrogen and testosterone reach their peak levels. Skin often looks radiant, and the increase in sebum production can give it a brighter, smoother appearance. However, this excess oil can lead to blackheads or pimples.

What to do: Continue with your cleansing and moisturizing routine, but consider using products that balance sebum production without drying out your skin.

Recommended ingredients: Niacinamide for sebum control and antioxidants to protect your skin from potential free radicals.

4. Luteal Phase (Days 17-28)

In this final phase, progesterone levels increase, which can make skin oilier and more prone to acne breakouts. Many people experience the effects of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which can include breakouts, inflammation, and sensitivity.

What to do: Maintain a calming and antibacterial routine. You can apply products that reduce inflammation and help control breakouts. Recommended ingredients: Salicylic acid to prevent and treat breakouts, plus anti-inflammatory ingredients like aloe vera and green tea.
General Skincare Tips During Your Cycle
Listen to your skin: Adjust your routine according to your skin's needs in each phase.
Avoid touching your face: During the days when you're more prone to breakouts, try not to touch your face to prevent infection.

Maintain a balanced diet: Eating healthily also helps maintain balance in your skin.

Each cycle is unique, and learning to synchronize your Japanese skincare routine with your hormonal phases will allow you to have balanced skin throughout the month.