Luteal Phase Skincare

Have you ever wondered why your skin can appear plump and glowy on some days, and then dull and lackluster a week later, even though you follow the same morning and evening routines? Chances are, these skin fluctuations are tied to the ebb and flow of your monthly hormone cycle.

During the first half of your menstrual cycle the hormone estrogen rises, bestowing you with the glow factor. Estrogen boosts collagen production, improves skin elasticity, and enhances hydration, giving complexions a natural glow-up and youthful firmness. After ovulation (about halfway through the monthly cycle) estrogen begins to wane, and progesterone takes over – marking the beginning of the luteal phase, the second half of your cycle.

The Luteal phase can bring about subtle but noticeable changes to your appearance, with many women experiencing water retention, leading to puffiness in the face and body. Features like the cheeks and jawline may appear softer, and bloating is common during this phase. This is partly due to the body’s increased need for glucose and calories – perhaps about 200 more than the first half of your cycle – to support the thickening of the uterine lining in preparation for a potential pregnancy. Cravings for carbs naturally intensify as the body works hard behind the scenes to complete this vital process.

This can be a great time to do at-home gua sha facials, or facial massage to gently move the lymphatic fluid away from the face. Reducing salt and oil intake, and drinking dandelion tea can also help relieve water retention.

Skin changes are another hallmark of this phase. Progesterone stimulates oil production, which can leave some women with more hydrated skin, while others may deal with clogged pores and hormonal breakouts. This could be a good time to use products that help cleanse the skin of excess oil, like gentle acidic formulas for break-out prone skin. The plump, radiant glow seen earlier in the cycle often fades as estrogen decreases, leaving skin looking duller or less vibrant. Gentle exfoliation can help, as well as peptide serums throughout your cycle to help keep skin looking and feeling plump and hydrated.

Fatigue and lower energy levels during this time can make under-eye circles more noticeable, as the body shifts its focus inward, so you may want to have a good concealer handy that is one shade lighter then your overall skin tone to help with brightening the eye area. 

This phase is a time to slow down, focus on self care and restorative movement, and embrace your body’s natural rhythms. By tuning into its needs and supporting these essential processes, you can feel more balanced and radiant, even during this low key stage of your cycle. Try to avoid cortisol spikes and stress to help with hormone balance.