Your skin may feel more sensitive so we suggest sticking to your normal skin care routine and keeping things simple. I personally love using a gentle cleanser and a non-comedogenic face oil like Hemp of Jojoba oil as a moisturiser.
Other symptoms? Every woman is different and while some may suffer intense cramps, lower back pain, headaches, bloating, flu-like symptoms and spasms during the first couple of days their period; others will feel completely rejuvenated and even a sense of peace and calm. The good news is that as your oestrogen begins to rise on day three of your cycle, you will begin to feel like your usual self and regain some much needed energy.
The Follicular Phase. As its name suggests, FSH stimulates the growth of a follicle containing an egg in the ovaries. It takes 13 days for an egg to reach maturity, hence the length of this phase.
As the egg matures, the follicle grows and starts to produce oestrogen. At around day seven, estrogen begins to rise causing your uterine lining to thicken and a lining of blood vessels and soft tissue known as the endometrium to develop in preparation for a fertilised egg. Escalating oestrogen levels can reduce sebum secretions and stimulate collagen production making you less prone to breakouts and more likely to glow!
This is the best time to maintain your good skin, try new skin care products, exfoliate or put on a mask as your skin will be less sensitive.
Due to a decrease in sebum secretions, it is also important to moisturise your skin during this period and promote oil balance. As your oestrogen levels take a steady climb upwards, so will your mood, energy and concentration levels.
Studies have even shown links between the follicular phase and women experiencing higher amounts of pleasure due to increased dopamine released by the brain. Various studies have found that oestrogen has similar characteristics to the satiety hormone leptin, acting as an appetite suppressant and regulating energy balance and body fat by inhibiting hunger. Unfavorable metabolism of estrogen and higher levels of circulating free estrogens in our bodies can negatively contribute to pro-inflammatory metabolic changes and potential concerns with our body's natural elimination pathways, contributing to acne flare-ups as well.
This is where the health of our liver, gut and gut microbiome come into play for the health of our skin. Estrogen metabolism is influenced by conversion pathways and enzymes in our liver and gut lining, as well as by certain types of gut flora. While estrogen can be great for skin health in moderation, too much of a good thing can lead to long-term health consequences.
Two overlooked factors include insulin and cortisol regulation. Both of these hormones can impact the health and regulation of estrogen, testosterone and progesterone. Insulin is a hormone that helps our bodies regulate and utilize glucose for energy production.
It also happens to be capable of stimulating testosterone production, while at the same time inhibiting sex hormone binding globulin SHBG , an important glycoprotein that binds estrogens and androgens in our bodies that controls the amount of free circulating levels of these hormones. When insulin is high or not being properly regulated, it will tell our ovaries to produce more testosterone, leading to an increased likelihood of hormonal-related acne flares.
Cortisol is necessary in our bodies but too much or too little of this hormone can also negatively impact insulin levels, testosterone levels and testosterone metabolism, thus leading to breakouts. This may include testing as well as targeted nutritional, lifestyle and supplement recommendations.
Jillian Cole is a naturopathic doctor that focuses on functional skincare. With her practice, she is bridging the gap between having an appreciation for mind and body health and the outward appearance of our skin. What is insulin resistance, and what health implications does this have? The true "cause" of PCOS has been studied and debated for years. How do genetics play a role? Blog FAQ. PCOS Program. Your Cart. Product is not available in this quantity.
In order to remedy acne breakouts relating to hormonal fluctuations, we need to understand what exactly is happening with our hormones during our monthly cycles. Can acne be caused by hormones? How does estrogen dominance cause acne? As well as feeling great, your skin is likely to appear stronger and healthier as collagen levels remain high. While some women may glow, others may get some pimples at this point as skin is prone to become a little oilier.
Enjoy the natural glow, and keep your face cleansed to avoid early breakouts. After ovulation , your body starts to produce the hormone progesterone. This causes a few changes to happen, including a rise in basal body temperature.
Progesterone also causes the production of sebum, a thick oily substance that acts as a natural skin lubricant. This can cause our pores to clog and makes us more prone to breakouts during the luteal phase. Cleanse regularly and soak up any excess oil on the skin with your favorite face mask.
Retaining water in the lead up to your period is fairly common. For many of us, our skin looks puffier during this time.
The cravings that come with PMS can also mean we tend to indulge in less healthy options, which in turn can have an impact on our complexion. Be kind to yourself and drink plenty of water during this time to help keep skin clear.
Keeping track of the changes in your body is just one part of using Natural Cycles. As well as teaching us about our unique cycle, the app can also be used as a hormone-free birth control option or to plan a pregnancy. Want to learn more about a hormone-free future?
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