Cocktailing to Combat Menstrual Breakouts
the perfect formula does exist
I woke up with a giant pimple on the right side of my nose this morning and am certain it's because my period is due next week.
Hormones fluctuate throughout your menstrual cycle and according to a study published in the Archives of Dermatology, 63% of acne-prone women experience premenstrual flares. These breakouts typically strike about seven to 10 days before period onset and then subside once bleeding begins.
Just before your period starts, estrogen and progesterone levels drop, which can trigger your sebaceous glands to secrete more sebum, an oily substance that lubricates your skin. Too much can result in clogged pores and breakouts.
We all know I love using ice to combat angry hormonal inflammation, but it's important to stick to a tried and true, simple skincare regimen because our skin doesn't like being overstressed.
To protect your skin barrier, Natacha Bonjout, a French pharmacist (these women are the end all, be all of skincare specialists btw!) who’s been living and working in New York for over a decade, suggests gently double cleansing at night and then in the morning, rinsing your skin with thermal water or spritzing on a toning mist. It’s “the total opposite of the squeaky clean” American method for a reason: “Every night, your skin reconstitutes its flora to protect itself,” she says.
“Simply rinsing in the morning with thermal water is all you need to do before starting your day.”
Followed up by my beloved Elta MD UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 formula that’s powered by part mineral, rather than chemical sunscreens, which tend to burn, itch, and sting my skin.
Massage is therapeutic for boosting our confidence and reducing stress and anxiety so apply everything with your fingers and let the healing power of touch be an added bonus.
