Ever wondered why your skin goes to pot around that time of the month? Basically, it's because we become more manly when we're due on our period. True story.
Between seven to 14 days before the start of our period, levels of the sex hormone estradiol in our body fall, while our testosterone remains high.
According to Bethanee J Schlosser, an assistant professor in dermatology and obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, it's the shift towards more male-prevalent hormones that lead to acne.
"It's that shift of balance that can lead to increased activity of sebaceous glands and can manifest as oily skin," Dr Schlosser told Refinery 29. "With an increase in developing acne lesions and oily hair and scalp as well." It all sounds pretty gross, but at least now we know why our face erupts the same week every single month.
Is there a solution to the problem? Yes! Dermatologists suggest using a glycolic or salicylic-acid cleanser or scrub to keep pores clean during the second half of your cycle, or two weeks before your period.
And there's more! It's not just what you put on your face which can make a difference. The week before your period it's advised you modify your diet by cutting out dairy, sugar and refined carbs because they can all lead to increased oil production AKA shiny face.
But after all that spot agony you can rest assured your skin will probably look incredible the week after Aunt Flo gets the eff out of town. So it's not all bad news.
MORE! Eat your way to glowing skin. Yes, it is really possible...