How Your Period Affects Your Skin: The Truth About Hormonal Breakouts

Ann
Jul 4
3 min read

Ever wonder why your skin suddenly turns on you right before your period? You’re not alone. That unwelcome breakout around your chin or jawline isn’t random, it’s hormonal.

At Diva’Me, we’re all about supporting you through every part of your cycle from leakproof protection to helping you understand what’s really going on inside your body. In this post, we’re diving into hormonal breakouts, why they happen, and what you can do to manage them.

What Are Hormonal Breakouts?

Hormonal breakouts are acne flare-ups caused by fluctuations in your hormones, especially during your menstrual cycle. These breakouts are usually deep, cystic, and painful, and most often appear on the lower face, jawline, and neck.

They’re different from your average whitehead or blackhead because they stem from internal changes, not just clogged pores or surface oil.

How Your Period Impacts Your Skin

Your skin is deeply connected to your cycle. Here's a breakdown of what typically happens each month:

1. Follicular Phase (Day 1–13)

Right after your period starts, estrogen levels begin to rise. This can actually improve your skin, making it look clearer and more radiant.

This is the best time to exfoliate and nourish your skin.

2. Ovulation (Around Day 14)

Your estrogen peaks, and your skin may still be glowing but the rise in luteinizing hormone (LH) can trigger increased oil production in some people.

Keep your skincare balanced and hydrated, but not too heavy.

3. Luteal Phase (Days 15–28)

Progesterone spikes, which can increase oiliness and clog pores. Meanwhile, estrogen drops. Cue the hormonal breakouts.

This is when most people experience PMS-related acne.

4. Menstruation (Period Week)

Inflammation may be more common, and skin can feel sensitive, dry, or dull.

Be gentle. Focus on calming products, avoid harsh scrubs, and stay hydrated.

Why Hormonal Breakouts Happen

Here’s what’s going on beneath the surface:

Increased sebum (oil) production
Clogged pores due to hormone fluctuations
Inflammation caused by a drop in estrogen
Bacteria growth in blocked follicles

And no, it’s not because you’re not washing your face enough. It’s hormonal. It’s natural. And it’s manageable.

How to Manage Hormonal Breakouts Naturally

At Diva’Me, we always advocate for solutions that support your body without disrupting it. Here are some ways to manage hormonal acne the healthy way:

Track your cycle: Knowing when breakouts might show up helps you prepare and adjust your routine.
Use gentle, non-comedogenic skincare products: Avoid pore-clogging ingredients, and stick to soothing, plant-based formulas.
Support your hormones naturally: Stay hydrated, reduce sugar intake, manage stress, and consider supplements like zinc or omega-3s (with professional advice).
Change your pillowcases and face towels regularly: It seems simple, but bacteria build-up can make things worse during breakout-prone days.

Periods, Hormones & Empowerment

Hormonal breakouts are frustrating but they’re also a sign that your body is doing what it’s meant to do. Your cycle is powerful, and when you understand how it works, you can work with it, not against it.

At Diva’Me, we’re here to support your full cycle emotionally, physically, and practically. From sustainable period products to honest education on topics like hormonal breakouts, we believe in a world where period care = self-care.