Why, oh why? tell me, why, oh why? As if the cramps, cravings, and emotional rollercoaster weren’t enough, periods also decide to mess with our hair and skin! One day, you’re glowing; the next, you wake up looking like you washed your face with a slice of pizza.
Personally, I’ve been lucky enough to avoid the dreaded period breakouts, but I know plenty of women – within my own family and close circle who dread their cycle for this very reason.
A few weeks ago, a friend of mine hosted a dinner party at her house, and I had the chance to meet some of her other friends, one of whom turned out to be a dermatologist. After dinner, while indulging in an extra-large serving of dessert (no regrets), I struck up a conversation with her. Naturally, we started talking about skincare—because, well, who would pass up a chance like that?
Our conversation also touched on why women experience changes in their hair and skin during their periods, and here’s what I learned:
Blame It on the Hormones
Turns out, hormones are the real culprits behind period-induced skin and hair struggles. Your skin and hair behave differently during your period because of fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels. These hormones can cause oil production to go haywire, make your skin more sensitive, and even turn your once-voluminous locks into a greasy mess.
Common Skin & Hair Changes
Here’s what might be happening to your face and mane when Aunt Flo comes to town:
· Oily Skin & Breakouts – Your face decides to relive its teenage years - minus the awkward braces phase.
· Dry & Sensitive Skin – It’s like your skin suddenly forgot how to hold onto moisture. Rude.
· Dull & Puffy Skin – You look in the mirror and see a tired marshmallow staring back.
· Greasy Hair & Scalp – Day 1: Fresh and bouncy. Day 3: Looks like you deep-fried something in it.
· Hair Fall – Just when you thought shedding season was for pets, your hair decides to join in.
How to Keep Your Skin & Hair under Control
The good news is that you don’t have to suffer in silence. Here are some ways to keep things under control:
Oily Skin & Breakouts
· Wash your face with a gentle, oil-free cleanser.
· Keep your hands off your face!
· Use lightweight moisturizers so your skin stays hydrated without feeling like a grease pan.
Dry & Sensitive Skin
· Drink water like it’s your job—hydration is key!
· Stick to fragrance-free moisturizers unless you enjoy your face feeling like sandpaper.
· Avoid harsh exfoliants unless you want to look like a tomato.
Dull or Puffy Skin
· Get some sleep. Seriously. No, five hours is not “enough.”
· De-puff with a cold compress—or just stick your face in the freezer (kidding, but not really).
· Eat foods rich in antioxidants, like berries and green tea, because glowing from within is a thing.
Greasy Hair & Scalp
· Shampoo a little more often, but don’t go overboard—you’re not trying to strip paint.
· Dry shampoo is your best friend when you don’t feel like washing your hair (again).
Hair Fall
· Eat iron- and protein-rich foods so your hair has the nutrients it needs to stay put.
· Manage stress, because freaking out about hair loss will only make it worse.
· Lay off the heat styling—your hair has been through enough already!
Should You Panic?
Nope! Most of these changes are temporary and disappear as your cycle evens out. If you experience unusual symptoms, it might be worth checking in with a dermatologist to rule out any underlying issues like PCOS or hormonal imbalances.
The moral of the story? Your skin and hair have mood swings just like you do during your period. Show them a little extra love, and they’ll (hopefully) return the favor!
Bela Sharma
Manager, Communications
Sulabh International