Hormonal changes around your period can mess with your skin, bringing on what we like to call “period skin.” The good news? With a few simple tweaks, you can keep breakouts in check and keep glowing, even when your hormones have other plans.

At the heart of this issue is an increase in oil production. When estrogen and progesterone drop, your skin compensates by going into oil overdrive - hello, clogged pores and chin breakouts. But no need to panic, just adjust your routine to stay ahead of it.

Tip 1: Keep it Gentle

A gentle cleanser is your best friend right now (we love Go-To Juicy Gel). Go for one that’s non-comedogenic and sulfate-free, so it cleans without drying you out. Make sure you’re washing your face twice a day, especially after sweating, since that can make oily skin worse.

Tip 2: Exfoliate Smarter

Exfoliating a few times a week helps prevent clogged pores. Try chemical exfoliants like glycolic or salicylic acid - they’re great for clearing out dead skin and giving you a fresh-faced glow. Our pick, the O.G. Alpha-H Liquid Gold Exfoliating Treatment.

Tip 3: Watch What You Eat

What you eat can show up on your face. Keeping a food diary can help you spot any triggers. Cutting back on dairy, sugar, and processed foods might reduce breakouts, while loading up on fresh fruits, veggies, and plenty of water can work wonders.

Tip 4: Use Targeted Spot Treatments

When breakouts do happen, reach for spot treatments with benzoyl peroxide or tea tree oil. These can calm the inflammation without drying out the rest of your face. Just dab them on the trouble spots, and you’re good to go.

Tip 5: Sync Your Skincare with Your Cycle

Your skincare should flow with your cycle. During your period, your skin might need a richer moisturiser, while in the lead-up, you might want to switch to something lighter to balance out that extra oil.