)taken center stage in terms of research and innovation.

The average menstrual cycle is 28 days, and each of these days is different hormonally, she says.

Meanwhile, she explains, the male hormonetestosteronestays at a fairly constant level throughout the cycle.

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This means that relatively speaking, testosterone is higher compared to the female hormones before and during menstruation.

So what do all of these fluctuations mean, specifically, for your skin on a week-to-week basis?

Both Dr. Hadley and New York City-based dermatologistJoshua Zeichner, MD, weigh in below.

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functional nutritionist, women’s hormone expert, and founder of FLO Living

In terms of moisturizer, hes fond of thePonds Dry Skin Cream Moisturizer($7).

She also likes to exfoliate with achemical exfoliatorduring the follicular phase of her cycle.

For your moisturizer, he suggestsBliss Drench and Quench Cream to Water Hydrator($22).

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Its an ultra light moisturizer that wont weigh the skin down, he says.

It containshyaluronic acidto bind to water to plump and hydrate the skin.

The result is oily skin, clogged pores, and inflammatory acne, says Dr. Hadley.

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In fact, she notes that about 60 percent of acne-prone women experience peri-menstrual flares.

Different types of hormonal birth control can affect the skin differently, however.

The specific progestin in the formulation will also affect the skin, says Dr. Hadley.

Black hair woman wearing a grey and white bra giving herself a deep cleansing session with a face brush and Gatineau skincare face wash lotion, after her shower. Studio skincare portrait over isolated background.

functional nutritionist, women’s hormone expert, and founder of FLO Living

Another hormonal-based treatment option your dermatologist may recommend is a medication namedspironolactone.

He likes theInn Beauty Project Foam Around Cleanser($18) for this purpose.

Vitti additionally recommends calming products with anti-inflammatory ingredients such asturmeric,blue tansy, andechinacea.

A curvy woman applying cleansing balms and smiling to her reflection in the mirror.

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