PMS and skin: Why your hormones might be wreaking havoc on your face
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What to expect from this article: Breakouts, oiliness, and skin sensitivity before your period are common and often related to hormones. PMS affects the skin through changes in oil production, inflammation, and immune response. This article explores what’s happening beneath the surface as well as potential remedies.
The luteal phase and your skin
You’re a week away from your period and suddenly your skin feels different. It’s oilier, irritated and more reactive to products or environmental triggers. Maybe that one spot on your chin reappears like clockwork.
This is no coincidence. During the luteal phase of your menstrual cycle, progesterone rises – increasing sebum (oil) production – while oestrogen begins to fall. These shifts can cause blocked pores, increased inflammation, and reduced skin barrier resilience.
Dr Nina Ellis-Hervey, clinical health psychologist (PubMed) says that “hormones directly influence the sebaceous glands and skin microbiome. A sudden surge or drop can visibly show up on the face”.
PMS, acne and inflammation
Hormonal acne isn’t the same as teenage acne. It tends to show up along the jawline and chin, is often cystic or painful, and may resist standard treatments.
Progesterone can cause the skin to swell slightly, tightening pores and trapping oil. Combine that with inflammation and an increase in male sex hormones, and you have the perfect storm for PMS-related breakouts.
If your skin flares consistently before your period – and especially if it pairs with mood swings, fatigue, or digestive issues – it could be part of a broader hormonal pattern.
See the full PMDD symptom checklist.
Skin sensitivity and barrier function
In addition to acne,many people experience increased skin sensitivity before their period. Products that usually work may suddenly sting, itch, or cause rashes. This is due to hormonal effects on the skin’s moisture retention and immune response.
The drop in oestrogen reduces collagen production and weakens the skin barrier, making it more prone to irritation. You might notice flakiness, tightness, or flare-ups of underlying conditions like eczema.
Learn how PMS and anxiety intersect.
What might help?
If PMS is showing up on your skin, consider:
- Simplifying your skincare
Avoid harsh actives in the premenstrual phase. Prioritise barrier-repairing ingredients like ceramides and niacinamide.
- Supporting hormonal balance
Take nutrients like zinc, magnesium, and B6 to help regulate sebum and reduce inflammation.
- Tracking your cycle
Note when breakouts occur to help pre-empt flare-ups.
- Trying Evelyn's Supplement Routine
Formulated with skin-supportive nutrients, Evelyn's three-step PMDD Supplement Routine can help calm the hormonal storm.
Explore how Evelyn's Routine supports skin, mood and hormones.
Final thoughts
Skin symptoms can be especially frustrating – they’re visible, hard to hide, and often dismissed as vanity. But the frustration is valid. Your skin is often seen as a reflection of your internal health, and skin complaints deserve compassion, not criticism.
If your skin shifts predictably with your cycle, it’s not random – it’s hormonal – and it means that you can take proactive, personalised steps to support improvements.
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References:
- NHS: Premenstrual syndrome
- PubMed: Hormonal impact on skin health
- IAPMD: Understanding PMDD
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional about any health concerns.