Skin Freaking Out Before Your Period? Here’s Why & What to Do About It

Ever look in the mirror a few days before your period and think, WHAT IS HAPPENING TO MY FACE?! One day, you’re glowing. The next, your skin is oily, breaking out, and just overall chaotic. Hormonal acne is real, and it’s annoying. But don’t worry—you’re not alone, and there are ways to deal with it.

Why Does Your Skin Go Haywire Before Your Period?

Blame your hormones (again). Right before your period, your estrogen drops and your progesterone rises. This causes:

😒 Increased oil production → leading to clogged pores & breakouts
🔥 Inflammation → making existing acne worse & skin more sensitive
💧 Water retention → puffiness & dull-looking skin

Basically, your skin is going through its own emotional breakdown along with you. Fun, right?

How to Keep Your Skin Under Control

1. Keep Your Skincare Routine SIMPLE

This is NOT the time to try a 10-step routine or new products. Your skin is already stressed—don’t add to the chaos. Stick to:
✔ Gentle cleanser (no harsh scrubs!)
✔ Lightweight, oil-free moisturizer
✔ Spot treatment with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide (but don’t overdo it!)

2. Change Your Pillowcase

Sounds weird, but hear me out—your pillowcase collects oil, sweat, and bacteria, which can make breakouts worse. Try swapping it out every few days leading up to your period.

3. Watch What You Eat (But Don’t Stress)

Certain foods can trigger inflammation and make acne worse. Try limiting:
🚫 Dairy (can increase oil production)
🚫 Sugar & processed foods (cause inflammation & breakouts)
🚫 Salty foods (make you puffy & bloated)

Instead, go for foods that help balance hormones:
🥑 Avocados (healthy fats for skin hydration)
🍫 Dark chocolate (because we need something good)
🥦 Leafy greens (reduce inflammation)

4. Hydrate Like It’s Your Job

Your skin needs water to fight inflammation and flush out toxins. Aim for at least 8 cups a day (or just carry a giant water bottle and sip constantly).

5. Consider Birth Control

If your breakouts are really bad and linked to your cycle, birth control can help regulate hormone levels and reduce acne flare-ups. Not all types work the same, so talk to a doctor about the best option for you.

6. Consult with a dermatoligist

The dermatologist can have a whole host of ideas to help you through this. Check with your parents and see what’s included in their health insurance. Med Spas are also places that can help with skin concerns.

Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone in This

Your skin freaking out before your period is annoying, but normal. It’s a temporary phase, and with the right care, you can minimize the damage and get through it. Be patient, be gentle with yourself, and don’t pick at your face (seriously, don’t do it).

💬 Drop a 🧴 if you deal with hormonal acne too! What’s your go-to skincare hack? Let’s help each other out!

#TheGRLInitiative #HormonalAcneSucks #PeriodBreakouts #SkinCare101 #ListenToYourBody #YoureNotAlone