Red Tide Rules

When that time of the month prevails again, every bella knows that it’s also time to take stock of her beauty regimen and refine her beauty basics. Because your hormonal levels are acting up, your usual routine may not agree with your skin (read: pimples, the horror). Not only that, but your skin’s pH balance also changes.

So, one or two weeks before you get your period, apply a new set of beauty basics to keep in tune with your hormones. We’ve got a few tips and tricks to help you get started, and some info that sheds light on “that’s why my kikay habits are like this!” during your period.

Skip the heavy moisturizer. Even the driest of dry skin gets way too oily at the start of your cycle. Use an oil-free moisturizer so that your skin’s moisture level is retained without having to put up with extra grease.

You tend to dress up and be more kikay than usual on your most fertile day. Note the day on your calendar: You just wake up in the mood to prep and primp and spend more time than usual on your appearance. This is just human nature and psychology at work: You are most reproductive, so to speak, and you want to channel that attractiveness to others. If you’re feeling extra bold, why not dab on bright red or pink lipstick? Or, you can add an extra layer of mascara or go for a super defined eyeliner. Either way, if you’ve got it, flaunt it!

Get a massage. Remember what they say about PMS—most women feel insecure and weepy and are especially prone to stress at that time of the month. Counter this by going for a massage; the power of touch will do wonders for your self-esteem. Amp the comfort factor by using scented oils (we recommend lavender or green tea for their soothing effects) and candles.

Having a bad hair day? It may just be your hormones. You have every right to feel bad or unattractive on a particularly hormonal day, but don’t dwell on it; you’ll just feel worse. Instead, counterattack that bout of insecurity by arming yourself with kikay tools such as blush, lipgloss, a leave-in conditioner, and tweezers (for a quick eyebrow fix). A lot of these “I’m so pangit” feelings are psychologically rooted, so don’t take it to heart if you feel that you woke up on the wrong side of bed!

Pay attention to the changes in your body. Some women say that during their cycle, their skin tends to be oilier, while others claim that their normally bouncy hair becomes limp. The next time the red tide visits, take note of the changes so you can alter your beauty routine to suit your hormonal rollercoaster ride. You may want to use a lighter moisturizer (as mentioned above) or use a heavy-duty conditioner. Remember, it’s you who knows your body best.