Hormones, ya gotta love 'em. While hormonal fluctuation is one of the unique parts of being a woman, I'm confident that I'm not alone in wishing the accompanying skin care side effects weren't a thing. Whether it's sudden dryness, a shiny oil slick or a way-too-noticeable planet on your chin, there's just something about those hormones that aren't welcome visitors. But what if I told you we're not alone in feeling this way? What if the beauty industry took our hatred of monthly hormones and did something constructive with it? Well, our period-prone skin care prayers have been answered.
Claire Zhao, co-founder and CEO of skin care brand Amareta, says that hormones play a big role in skin health, whether it's the usual 28-day monthly cycle or pregnancy. As such, she and co-founder Jen White created products that "complement the cyclical hormonal changes and for specific skin needs associated with hormonal swings; to support these changes, instead of trying to cover them up."
Since all women go through hormonal phases throughout their 28-day cycle, and life as a whole, Amareta aims to address everything from greasy and acne-prone skin to dry, dull and normal skin that occurs as a result. "Though the length of each cycle varies from one individual to another, everyone goes through Luteal Phase, Follicular Phase and Menstrual Phase," Zhao says. "Our skin undergoes a series of changes over the 28-day cycle, just like the body requires different nutrients during different phases of the cycle; your skin goes through conditions that call for different ingredients and treatment."
To address those different skin care needs, the brand offers products that complement the cyclical hormonal changes women experience in the form of facial cleansers, moisturizers, oils and masks. Read on to learn more about how your skin changes throughout your cycle and which products will help cater to your needs during those times.
Image via @amareta_beautywellness
Claire Zhao, co-founder and CEO of skin care brand Amareta, says that hormones play a big role in skin health, whether it's the usual 28-day monthly cycle or pregnancy. As such, she and co-founder Jen White created products that "complement the cyclical hormonal changes and for specific skin needs associated with hormonal swings; to support these changes, instead of trying to cover them up."
Since all women go through hormonal phases throughout their 28-day cycle, and life as a whole, Amareta aims to address everything from greasy and acne-prone skin to dry, dull and normal skin that occurs as a result. "Though the length of each cycle varies from one individual to another, everyone goes through Luteal Phase, Follicular Phase and Menstrual Phase," Zhao says. "Our skin undergoes a series of changes over the 28-day cycle, just like the body requires different nutrients during different phases of the cycle; your skin goes through conditions that call for different ingredients and treatment."
To address those different skin care needs, the brand offers products that complement the cyclical hormonal changes women experience in the form of facial cleansers, moisturizers, oils and masks. Read on to learn more about how your skin changes throughout your cycle and which products will help cater to your needs during those times.
Image via @amareta_beautywellness
Now that you're obsessing over the idea that there's a skin care line tailored to your hormones, why not take the time to become better acquainted with each of your hormonal phases and how you can help your skin along the way?
THE LUTHEAL PHASE
When: Typically 10 days before your period
What: During this phase, estrogen levels start to decrease while progesterone levels increase, leading to an increase in sebum production causing a higher likelihood of breakouts. To help prevent skin from breaking out, Zhao says to look for ingredients that have antiseptic power to calm inflammation, while preventing against excess build-up.
THE MENSTRUAL PHASE
When: During your period
What: During this phase, estrogen and progesterone levels fall and body temperature and blood circulation will be lower than usual. As a result, skin may appear dull and sebum production may decrease, leading to low moisture retention. To help brighten skin and lessen the appearance of dullness, Zhao recommends products that are high in Vitamin C and antioxidants.
THE FOLLICULAR PHASE
When: The first day of menstruation through ovulation.
What: During post-menstruation to the start of ovulation, skin is generally in its best condition. Zhao encourages using products that contain active ingredients during this time period.
Image via @amareta_beautywellness
THE LUTHEAL PHASE
When: Typically 10 days before your period
What: During this phase, estrogen levels start to decrease while progesterone levels increase, leading to an increase in sebum production causing a higher likelihood of breakouts. To help prevent skin from breaking out, Zhao says to look for ingredients that have antiseptic power to calm inflammation, while preventing against excess build-up.
THE MENSTRUAL PHASE
When: During your period
What: During this phase, estrogen and progesterone levels fall and body temperature and blood circulation will be lower than usual. As a result, skin may appear dull and sebum production may decrease, leading to low moisture retention. To help brighten skin and lessen the appearance of dullness, Zhao recommends products that are high in Vitamin C and antioxidants.
THE FOLLICULAR PHASE
When: The first day of menstruation through ovulation.
What: During post-menstruation to the start of ovulation, skin is generally in its best condition. Zhao encourages using products that contain active ingredients during this time period.
Image via @amareta_beautywellness
Best for: Hormonal acne, dullness, dryness and sensitivity
Best for: Hormonal dryness and dullness
While it's meant for women who are breastfeeding, anyone can benefit from adding this luscious oil to their skin care routine. Since it's made with premium oils and natural vitamin E, free of synthetic preservatives or synthetic fragrances, it makes for a luxurious body massage oil.
Best for: Women who are breastfeeding