Why You Need To Try Cycle Syncing Your Skincare Routine

As your period ends, oestrogen levels slowly rise and you’ll start to see a natural glow emit from your skin. It’s feeling cool, calm and balanced – more elastic, too, thanks to an increase in collagen production. Keep this glow going by re-introducing actives – Ren’s Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic is a firm favourite you count on. For your daily dose of vitamin C, look to Natura Bissé’s C+C Vitamin 20% Antiox Solution. And where there are skin-refining formulas, high-protection sunscreens should always follow. Evidens de Beaute’s The Total Shield will do the trick and then some.
 
As for your monthly facials or treatments? Dr Malik advises that “Certain treatments, such as microneedling or skin peels might be best done during the follicular phase as this is when oestrogen levels are higher, potentially aiding in skin healing and regeneration.”

PMS, anyone? Enter hormonal acne, cravings, mood swings – the works. Progesterone increases, oestrogen levels plummet and your body temperature rises. Medical consultant and founder of the Adonia Medical Clinic, Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme says that your skin can become more “oily and congested” during the luteal phase. Keep breakouts at bay by “incorporating or increasing your use of salicylic acid, a retinoid or azelaic acid.” Consider Dr Dennis Gross' Alpha AHA/BHA Daily Cleansing Gel to double up on exfoliating acids in one step. Your skin “is [also] inflamed”, according to Dr Malik, so balance those actives with calming, soothing formulas. Try Perricone MD’s Barrier Repair Nourishing Moisturizer or Kama Ayurveda’s Kumkumadi Soft Cream and your skin will thank you.