The simple answer is no. For many people, breakouts can be caused by someone's menstrual cycle. Unfortunately, along with the taboo of periods comes a lot of misinformation and not enough transparency. We’re here to help you understand and simplify this complex topic!
What Is PMS?
Ahh, the endless PMS symptoms, something the majority of us get which suck and come with our non-voluntary periods! These are what we may experience in the 7-10 days before your period. There are lots of solutions available to manage these symptoms, later in this blog we’ll chat about some specific to breakouts.
Period skin is a key player in the PMS game…
Your hormones fluctuate during your cycle and may be the cause of period skin. According to Healthline, just before your period starts, the levels of oestrogen and progesterone fall, this creates the perfect recipe for breakouts. This can cause your sebaceous glands to secrete more sebum, which is an oily substance that lubricates your skin. Excessive release of sebum can cause clogged pores and breakouts.
But it doesn't stop there…
Period breakouts can last longer than other PMS symptoms, again you can blame those pesky hormones. Testosterone (Yes Women produce small quantities too and no it's not just a male hormone!) affects us differently depending on the levels of our other hormones. When your hormone levels fluctuate near the end of your period, testosterone can cause sebaceous gland sensitivity. Again, this results in increased sebum production and clogged pores.
Finding these monthly breakouts on the lower half of your face? You’re not alone, breakouts that are caused by your period usually pop up on your chin and jawline. Now, we know how tempting it can be but don’t anger the breakout! Picking at them can lead to scarring and can be very painful.
Skincare Secrets For Period Skin
Salicylic acid may be your new BFF. It works beyond the skin surface, breaking down the connection between skin cells to dissolve skin debris that clogged pores. Not sure where to start? The Wǒ Power TonIQ™ Anti Blemish Essence gives immediate, targeted relief to breakouts and blemishes by offering a special skin SOS formulation. When applied before bed, it creates a thin film which can be peeled off in the morning to see the result!
Cleanse your face properly each day, especially after activities that cause you to sweat. Sweating releases sebum oil onto the skin surface which can clog pores if not washed away. Find one that is suitable to your skin needs, it should gently remove the build up of dirt and oil from the day and night. The best place to start is to use a Skin Diagnostic, that takes into consideration your skin concerns such as breakouts and blemishes to recommend you a tailored skincare routine.
Your skin is unique and it's important to know what ingredients work well with your skin. Skincare is never a ‘one size fits all’, so using a Skin Diagnostic will help you understand yourself, this is where your self-love journey will blossom!
Help us spread the word and inspire confidence in others. Share your skincare tips with a friend or simply share this post to explain to them why we may get period breakouts.
