Now that you know how to deal with your skin throughout your cycle, it probably comes as no surprise that you should try to schedule any dermatologist visit during the days leading up to your period -- especially if you're experiencing hormonal acne. "Try and see your provider when your skin is at its worst," says Shamban. "It's not always possible, but if you can get in during a breakout peak it will help the provider get an accurate picture of what's going on with your skin." On the other hand, if you see your dermatologist in the midst your best skin week of the month it may be a complete waste of time.
If you've ever experienced time-of-the-month breakouts, you know all too well about the close relationship between hormones and skin. What you probably didn't realize, however, is that you have your cycle to thank when your skin looks good, too.
"Women are supposed to have a different appearance throughout the month," says Rebecca Booth, MD, a gynecologist and author of "The Venus Week." "Mother Nature designed us to look better when we are more fertile." Therefore, higher estrogen levels generally equate to better-looking skin.
Even if you haven't had a pimple in 10 years, your hormones are constantly affecting your skin -- and how they do it is directly related to your age. "Most women reach peak fertility -- and peak collagen production -- at about age 27," says Booth. "Then it starts a gradual decline that picks up speed around ages 35, 42, and finally menopause." Understanding the relationship between your estrogen levels and your skin can help you deal with both the changes over the course of the month and the changes throughout your life. By making the most of your collagen-producing days, you'll see long-term benefits.
Unfortunately, if you're on The Pill the same rules don't apply. "The birth control pill is often credited with curing acne," explains Booth. "And it works. But it also mutes the good days -- making them harder to detect." And even though fluctuations still exist, those in the know suggest sticking with a regular regimen throughout the month.
To make the most of how your hormones and skin jibe, follow these eight tips and have a vibrant complexion all month long.
