Cycle Syncing Skincare: How Your Skin and Hair Change Throughout Your Menstrual Cycle

Our skin and hair aren’t static - they shift and respond to hormonal fluctuations across the menstrual cycle. Understanding these changes allows you to support your body with the right products and routines, instead of fighting against it. Here's how your skin and hair might behave across each phase, and what your beauty routine can do to help.

Menstrual Phase

Hormones: Estrogen and progesterone are at their lowest.
Skin + Hair: You may notice that your skin feels dry, dull, or more sensitive than usual. Breakouts may appear as inflammation peaks. Hair may also feel more fragile.
What May Help: Focus on barrier repair and hydration. Use gentle, non-stripping cleansers, nourishing creams, and supportive oils. Avoid harsh actives. Look for ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and squalane. Limit heat styling and opt for hydrating hair masks.

Follicular Phase

Hormones: Estrogen begins to rise.
Skin + Hair: Skin may appear brighter and more balanced; hair often feels stronger and more voluminous. You may notice a natural glow.
What May Help: This is a good time to introduce gentle exfoliation and active ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide to boost brightness. Scalp care and lightweight styling products can enhance hair’s renewed volume.

Ovulatory Phase

Hormones: Estrogen peaks, followed by a surge of luteinizing hormone (LH).
Skin + Hair: Your skin may be at its most radiant - pores may appear smaller, and oil production is usually balanced. Hair is typically shinier and stronger.
What May Help: Maintain your glow with antioxidants and hydration. Consider adding a mild clay mask or exfoliant if you’re prone to mid-cycle congestion. This is also a great phase to try styling or protective treatments - your hair is at its strongest.

Luteal Phase

Hormones: Progesterone rises, estrogen drops.
Skin + Hair: PMS-related breakouts and oiliness may show up, alongside increased sensitivity or redness. Hair may become more prone to dryness or frizz.
What Helps: Focus on calming and balancing. Try using anti-inflammatory ingredients like niacinamide, green tea extract, or azelaic acid. Avoid aggressive treatments. For hair, switch to moisture-rich products, reduce heat exposure, and consider a scalp massage to boost circulation and relaxation.

As your beauty needs shift throughout your cycle - your skincare and haircare should too.
Ahlya is here to help you understand what’s happening beneath the surface and support your body through every phase.

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