Cycle Syncing Skincare: How to Glow Max Regardless of Hormones

holistic skincare + beauty
6 minute read

If you're like most women you likely experience moderate skin fluctuations throughout the month. Perhaps you were under the impression that, like our hair, we just have good days and bad days when it comes to our skin's complexion and glow. But did you know that hormonal fluctuations during your menstrual cycle can have a significant impact on your skin's appearance? Yes, you can use cycle syncing for aesthetic purposes.

Cycle Syncing

Introducing: cycle syncing. You may be familiar with the term as it's appeared more frequently in holistic health circles concerning the optimization of your workout routine, diet, and even sex life. The basic premise is that throughout your monthly cycle your hormones are fluctuating as shown in the chart below. Due to these hormonal fluctuations, and their impact on your body, each phases of your cycle may be suitable for different activities.

Quick Disclaimer: At this point in the article we'll mention some broad patterns on the effects cyclical hormone fluctuations have on a woman's body. It goes without saying that these are exactly that: broad patterns. Every body (literally) is different and what's true for the majority may not necessarily be true for you. Your experience may vary based on variables such as skin type, birth control or hormonal therapy, and genetics. It is up to you to listen to your own body to see if these generalizations apply to you.

For example, several studies have shown that a woman's VO₂ max is highest during the postmenstrual period^1,2. This is likely indicates that estrogen has a positive effect on oxygen consumption, and that women may benefit from dialing up cardiovascular exercise intensity during this period compared to other periods.

So, what does this have to do with skincare? As we'll see in the next section, it all comes down to hormones.

Cycle Syncing Skincare

The key idea behind cycle syncing skincare comes down to treating your skin based on what your hormones are throwing at it at any given time. Let's explore the various cycle phases, how they affect your skin, and how you may best treat your skin to maximize it's health and beauty. Please note that the time ranges are approximate and will vary due to the factors mentioned in the disclaimer above.

Early Follicular (aka menstruation): Day 1-6

If you look at the chart above you'll notice that in the beginning of your cycle your hormones are likely at or near their monthly lows. Due to this your skin is probably near most vulnerable, probably feeling very dry and quite dull. Why?

During menstruation your skin has low production of fatty acids, cholesterol, and lipids. These three components are crucial to a healthy skin barrier and strong, hydrated. skin. As such, restoring these levels should be your primary concern.

Rich in fatty acids, cholesterol, and some lipids, high-quality bison tallow is a great place to start. HIBI's restoration balm is a tallow based evening treatment formulated to naturally nurture your skin's natural barrier by restoring fatty acid, cholesterol, and lipid levels.

Be sure to avoid or limit any new products as well as harsh cleansers, exfoliators, or drying ingredients during this period.

Late Follicular through Ovulation: Day 7-16

As you move into the late follicular phase and ovulation your body is going to see a strong spike in estrogen. This is great news for your skin! Estrogen with regards to the skin may be thought of as a "youth hormone" due to it's ability to increase collagen production, skin cell turnover, and hyaluronic acid production, plumping and moisturizing your skin. You're skin will probably look it's best at some point during this period so be sure to take advantage of it and plan something special!

With that increase in estrogen comes an increase in sebum production. This mean that you're skin may be a slightly more oily than usual later in this phase. If you are prone to acne you may wish to avoid any heavier products that may clog pores.

For most women this is a great time to try out new skincare products and ingredients as your skin is at it's most resilient.

Early Luteal: Day 17-24

During the luteal phase estrogen begins to decline and progesterone begins to spike. The increase in skin cell turnover from the recent estrogen spike has likely led to some dead skin cell buildup leading to rougher skin. Also, the progesterone spike is likely causing some excess oil production and congested pores. What better time for a face mask!

Your focus during this phase is likely going to be a) decongesting clogged pores, b) gently exfoliating dead skin cells, and c) soaking up excess oil. HIBI's "milk and honey" radiance mask is a great way to accomplish all three of these at once. Our team finds ourselves using this mask more frequently between late ovulation and the early luteal phase.

Late Luteal: Day 25-28

The late luteal phase is going to be quite similar to the early follicular phase, hormonally speaking. This is likely a good time to reintroduce a good moisturizing and skin barrier repair treatment such as the restoration balm.

Something unique about this phase to point out though is that you're skin will be particularly susceptible to UV damage at this time³. Be sure to be extra diligent in applying a good sunblock during this time and try to avoid excessive sun exposure. Since your skin is extra sensitive to oxidative stress during this time it also may be beneficial to apply a product rich in antioxidants such as HIBI's glow nectar.

Conclusion

As we mentioned above these are general trends and timelines. You will need to figure out for yourself how your skin changes and how to take care of it which takes a little bit of effort but is worth it! Also, remember that you don't need to start with every formulation listed above. Feel free to experiment with one at a time to gauge how your skin responds to it. If it's not a fit for you we will help you find what works for your skin.

References

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