Eczema is already challenging to manage, but for many women, the connection between hormonal changes and eczema flare-ups adds another layer of frustration. From menstrual cycles to pregnancy, fluctuating hormones can trigger inflammation, dryness, and itching. Understanding why these flare-ups happen and how to manage them can bring much-needed relief and comfort to those navigating eczema during these critical life stages.
The Link Between Hormones and Eczema Flare-Ups
Hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, play key roles in your skin’s health and immune response. When these hormones fluctuate, particularly during:
- Menstrual Cycles
- Pregnancy
- Postpartum Periods
…it can worsen eczema symptoms or trigger new flare-ups.
Menstrual Cycles and Eczema
During the menstrual cycle, estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate:
- Luteal Phase (Week Before Period): Progesterone levels peak, which can trigger inflammation and weaken the skin barrier. Many women notice eczema worsening 7-10 days before menstruation.
- Estrogen Decline: Just before and during menstruation, falling estrogen levels can reduce the skin’s ability to retain moisture, leading to dryness and irritation.
Studies show that 32% of women with eczema experience worsening symptoms during this phase of their cycle (Cho etal., 2010).
Pregnancy and Eczema
Pregnancy causes a surge in progesterone and estrogen, which can impact the immune system and skin barrier:
- Th2 Immune Shift: During pregnancy, the immune system shifts to a Th2-dominant state to protect the fetus. However, eczema is a Th2-mediated condition, leading to increased inflammation and flare-ups (Nguyen & Ahmed, 2016).
- Progesterone Sensitivity: Some women develop Autoimmune Progesterone Dermatitis (APD), where progesterone triggers eczema-like rashes or other skin conditions.
Approximately 61% of women with eczema report symptom aggravation during pregnancy (Cho et al., 2010).
Managing Hormonal Eczema Flare-Ups
While you can’t always control your hormones, you can take steps to manage eczema during these hormonal shifts:
1. Prioritize Deep Hydration
Keeping your skin hydrated is essential to repair the skin barrier and lock in moisture.
Rejûvaskin’s Skin Recovery Cream is specifically formulated with calendula, aloe vera, and hyaluronic acid to soothe irritation, reduce inflammation, and restore your skin barrier. It’s perfect for premenstrual dryness or sensitive pregnancy skin. Learn more here.
2. Use Gentle, Fragrance-Free Skincare
Fragrances and harsh chemicals can further irritate eczema-prone skin. Choose products that are dermatologist-tested and free from irritants.
3. Protect Your Skin Barrier
Use emollients with ingredients like ceramides, shea butter, and natural oils to reinforce your skin barrier. Apply liberally, especially during hormonal shifts.
4. Consult Your Dermatologist
If flare-ups are severe, consult your dermatologist about:
- Topical Steroids: To reduce inflammation.
- Hormone Management: For progesterone-related eczema like APD.
Why Rejûvaskin Is Your Eczema Solution
Rejûvaskin understands the unique challenges of eczema flare-ups during hormonal changes. Our dermatologist-tested products provide hydration, soothing relief, and skin barrier repair without irritating sensitive skin.
- Rejûvaskin Skin Recovery Cream: Combines calendula, aloe vera, and ceramides to hydrate and calm eczema-prone skin during flare-ups.
- ReVita-D™ Moisturizer: A lightweight, botanical-rich formula that locks in hydration and supports skin recovery during hormonal dryness.
Our products are gentle, effective, and free from fragrances or harsh ingredients, making them safe for pregnancy and sensitive skin.
Conclusion
Hormonal changes during menstrual cycles and pregnancy can wreak havoc on eczema-prone skin. Understanding how these fluctuations impact your skin—and implementing a tailored skincare routine—can help manage flare-ups effectively.
Rejûvaskin’s science-backed solutions offer deep hydration, barrier support, and soothing relief when you need it most. Whether you’re dealing with premenstrual dryness or pregnancy-related flare-ups, we’re here to help you feel confident and comfortable in your skin.
Works Cited
- Cho, S., Kim, H., Oh, S., Park, C., Jung, J., & Lee, K. (2010). The influence of pregnancy and menstruation on the deterioration of atopic dermatitis symptoms. Annals of Dermatology. Link
- Nguyen, T., & Ahmed, A. R. (2016). Autoimmune progesterone dermatitis: Update and insights. Autoimmunity Reviews. Link