Women with irregular menstrual cycles have more skin problems.

Many women notice that their skin changes throughout the month—and, according to science, this makes sense. Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle directly affect the health and appearance of the skin, according to a study by researchers from Germany and France, recently published in the British Journal of Dermatology . Those who tend to have irregular periods are at greater risk of acne, blemishes, melasma, rosacea, dryness, and skin sensitivity.

Researchers analyzed 17,000 women from 20 countries, aged between 18 and 55. The goal was to identify the relationship between skin disorders and the phases of the menstrual cycle, also considering the regularity or irregularity of menstruation.

The volunteers completed a digital questionnaire with social and demographic information, as well as information about their menstrual cycles over the past year and their menstrual cycle regularity. A regular cycle was defined as a menstrual cycle occurring every month at approximately the same time. They also reported their skin type and the presence or absence of 12 characteristics, such as oiliness, dryness, sensitivity, paleness, blemishes, wrinkles, dark circles, and enlarged pores.

The results indicate a higher number of diagnoses of skin problems in those with irregular cycles. In the case of acne, researchers point out that the link with estrogen, the female hormone, is not yet fully understood, but it is believed that it influences sebum production.

Regarding dark spots, the study reinforces the already known theory that hormonal imbalances stimulate the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color, favoring the development of melasma. These irregularities may also be linked to a higher risk of rosacea.

In addition to clinical diagnoses, self-perceived changes were also more frequent in those with irregular periods. The most common symptoms were dry skin, with or without flaking and cracking, and increased skin sensitivity.

"The fact that this is a global study, with a significant number of women, further corroborates the results. It reinforces what we already observe in everyday practice: that the phases of the menstrual cycle can alter skin behavior, with a greater propensity for acne, excessive oiliness, sensitivity, and even inflammatory changes, as well as possible hormonal imbalances," says gynecologist and obstetrician Sérgio Podgaec, vice president of Education at Einstein Hospital Israelita.

However, the study didn't specifically analyze women with polycystic ovaries. "This gynecological disorder is extremely common, characterized by irregular menstrual cycles and strongly associated with skin and hair changes, such as acne, oiliness, and even alopecia," notes gynecologist Carolina Fernandes Giacometti, also at Einstein.

Hormonal changes and the phases of the cycle

The menstrual cycle corresponds to the interval between the first day of menstruation and the day before the next bleeding. On average, it lasts 28 days and is divided into three phases, defined by the hormonal fluctuations that occur during this period. Each phase is marked by the predominance of certain hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, which can influence not only the body's functioning but also the health and appearance of the skin.

“In the follicular phase, estrogen levels are higher, leading to better skin hydration, less oiliness and increased collagen production, as well as more luminosity and radiance,” explains dermatologist Paola Pomerantzeff, member of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology (SBD) and the Brazilian Society of Dermatological Surgery (SBCD).

During the ovulatory phase, estrogen levels remain high, and the production of luteinizing hormone (LH), responsible for egg release, begins. During this period, the skin may experience a slight increase in oiliness, favoring the appearance of acne and blemishes. In the luteal phase, progesterone and testosterone levels rise, making the skin oilier, more sensitive, and reactive. Acne, rosacea, melasma, and even seborrheic dermatitis are common.

During menstruation, with the drop in estrogen and progesterone levels, skin tends to become drier, more dehydrated, and more sensitive. "Women can vary their skincare routine according to their cycle. Generally, those most affected by hormonal fluctuations each month feel these changes more," notes Pomerantzeff.

Ideally, consult a dermatologist to find out which skincare routine works best for your skin type and routine. For example, you could include a stronger moisturizer for days when your skin is drier and more sensitive, or an acid for days when your skin is more oily. "The choice of acid depends on the dermatological examination and evaluation of each patient," advises the dermatologist.

Source: Einstein Agency

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