Luteal Phase: Your Body, Mood & Skin

Where We'll Go Next

Thank you for reading. Understanding the luteal phase is another step toward recognising how your body, mood, and skin respond to hormonal changes throughout the menstrual cycle.

In our upcoming Education articles, we'll take a closer look at the science behind hormonal breakouts, how estrogen and progesterone influence your skin, and which skincare ingredients can help support its changing needs.

Your skin has rhythm. Your skincare should too.

References & Further Reading

1. Thiyagarajan, D. K., Basit, H., & Jeanmonod, R. Physiology, Menstrual Cycle. StatPearls, NCBI Bookshelf.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK500020/

2. Reed, B. G., & Carr, B. R. The Normal Menstrual Cycle and the Control of Ovulation. Endotext, NCBI Bookshelf.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279054/

3. Cable, J. K., & Grider, M. H. Physiology, Progesterone. StatPearls, NCBI Bookshelf.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558960/

4. Rapkin, A. J., & Akopians, A. L. (2012). Pathophysiology of Premenstrual Syndrome and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder. Menopause International.
https://doi.org/10.1258/mi.2012.012014

5. Imai, A., Ichigo, S., Matsunami, K., & Takagi, H. (2015). Premenstrual Syndrome: Management and Pathophysiology. Clinical and Experimental Obstetrics & Gynecology.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26054102/

6. Physiological Changes in Women's Skin During the Menstrual Cycle: A Scoping Review (2024). Cureus.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11703644/

7. Stoll, S., Shalita, A. R., Webster, G. F., et al. (2001). The Effect of the Menstrual Cycle on Acne. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11712049/

8. Lucky, A. W. (2004). Quantitative Documentation of a Premenstrual Flare of Facial Acne in Adult Women. Archives of Dermatology.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15096370/

9. Draelos, Z. D., Matsubara, A., & Smiles, K. (2006). The Effect of 2% Niacinamide on Facial Sebum Production. Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16766489/

10. Ratz-Łyko, A., Arct, J., & Pytkowska, K. (2016). Moisturizing and Antiinflammatory Properties of Cosmetic Formulations Containing Centella asiatica Extract. Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4852572/

11. Enshaieh, S., Jooya, A., Siadat, A. H., & Iraji, F. (2007). The Efficacy of 5% Topical Tea Tree Oil Gel in Mild to Moderate Acne Vulgaris: A Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study. Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/

Disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Individual menstrual cycles and skin responses vary. If you have concerns about your cycle or skin health, consult a qualified healthcare professional.