Hormone Health: How Your Menstrual Cycle Affects Your Skin
As women we go through so many highs and lows during the month (skin, hair, sleep, mood) you name it - we’re affected. Sadly some are worse than others with severe cases including Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) which have some catastrophic physical symptoms.
We’ve started to learn more about each phase in our menstrual cycle and what it does to our body and we think it’s important that we share it with you! This month we partnered with Fewe and included 1 of 4 serums in our April Wellness Rituals ROCCABOX for you to try and love.
And you loved them so much, we've boxed them all up into a Limited Edition Skin Cycling Set for you. Worth £78!
“We’re here to change the conversation about your menstrual cycle. To demystify what is really going on with your body so you get ahead of your cycle. So you can see how powerful your cycle really is.”
They commissioned a study and the research found that 86% of people couldn’t name the main hormones that are crucial to understanding their cycle. FEWE is here to change that by giving you the education and tools to help you understand your four phases, the key areas of focus around your cycle and creating products to support you, all month long.They’ve broken down your cycle into four stages:
Flow (menstruation): The most commonly talked about phase in the cycle. It's often associated with cramps and mood swings, but let's not forget the silver linings! During this period, your brain kicks into high gear, making you emotionally intuitive. Got a tough decision to make? Now's the time to tap into that inner wisdom. Plus, your focus is on point, now is the time to set some goals and think ahead, as you’ll be able to do so with some clarity.
Of course, we can't ignore those days where we need some TLC… That’s where the Thirst Trap Serum comes in. Thirst Trap is designed to be used mid-flow, when low hormone production leaves your skin out to dry (literally). With anti-inflammatory CBD, soothing Aloe Vera and the super-hydrating molecule Hyaluronic Acid, incorporate it into your routine the moment your period arrives and give your skin the hydration it craves.
Soar (preparation): Physically and emotionally, you're at your peak, ready to tackle any challenge that comes your way. Seriously, you're a force to be reckoned with!
At this phase in your cycle, the levels of FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) are climbing in your body alongside oestrogen. Your skin is thriving, as the rise in oestrogen increases the collagen and hyaluronic acid production in your skin. Focus on maintaining the glow that you’ve already got coming from within with the Get Up & Glow Serum.
Transform (ovulation): Our personal favourite phase (and for very good reason). At this time of the month, you’re feeling superhuman. Even though you’re in the mood, you’re also feeling calm and reflective – this is your most powerful cycle phase, particularly as you’re able to get deeper and more restful sleep than at any other point in the month.
You’re going through a lot of hormonal changes in the phase, with LH (luteinizing hormone) and oestrogen peaking in your body, the release of an egg, and the dip of those hormones afterwards as progesterone rises. As the hormones in your body change, you’ll start to feel more tired as you enter into a time of recovery and rest. This is the perfect time to incorporate The Seeking Clarity Serum for purifying skin benefits.
Reset (pre menstrual): Sadly, this is a more challenging time of the month, as your mood switches to being lower and more anxious as you approach your period. Some people experience PMS symptoms at this point, which can include cramping, mood swings, and all-over aches… Now’s the time to pull out all of the stops with your self-care – run yourself a hot bath, and get some gentle movement in with yoga to support your body with endorphins.
70% of people also experience acne in this phase (hello, period spots), so you might want to bring in some products to manage your skin’s oil production. We’d recommend the Spot the Difference anti-blemish serum to help calm the skin.
So there we have it. Your hormone cycle explained and how to tackle skin concerns throughout. Get the full Skin Cycle Set here for just £30!