By Nilo Haq, Professional Make-Up Artist and Founder of SaudiBeautyBlog.com

All the hormonal fluctuations and skin changes during that time of the month are bound to make us feel less than thrilled about our looks. From puffiness to bloating, cramps, dryness and swelling – women tend to experience discomfort, fatigue and even image issues that can affect their self-esteem.

Don’t fret through, we have rounded up some key beauty and skin care tips designed to help enhance both your self-confidence and appearance – especially for those days during the month when you’re not feeling your best.

1. De-Puff Those Puffy Eyes
Fatigue and fluctuating hormone levels can cause puffy eyes. Try to sleep with two pillows under your head slightly propped up to allow fluids to drain more easily from your face. In the morning, take two cold wet tea bags and place them over your eyes while you lie down for 15 minutes. This is a great way to de-puff those puffy eyes!

2. Cool the Cream
Put your eye cream in the fridge. The cooling will help fight puffy eyes and will also refresh tired eyelids.

3. Prime Away
Using make-up to cover up acne or pimples – caused by breakouts – so you can achieve a luminous, flawless complexion is critical during that time of the month. Remember to apply a face primer on top of your moisturizer but under your foundation to make your make-up last longer throughout the day.

4. Conceal Dark Circles
Concealer is a beauty must-have that can brighten up a tired face and give you a ‘fresh’ look even if you are totally exhausted! Make sure to clean under your eyes before applying the concealer.

5. Less is More
When you are feeling down or tired, your skin tends to be dry (inside and out), so try to wear less of your regular foundation. As an alternative, choose a natural coverage BB Cream or tinted moisturizer to even out your complexion without making the skin look dry.

6. Add Colour to your Face
Adding some colour to your skin always makes you look fresh. Highlight the warmth in your skin by dusting a natural looking bronzer along your cheekbones and then lightly dusting it all over your face and neck. Use a peachy blush along the apples of your cheeks and don’t forget to finish off the look with a bit of a natural looking highlighter. You will look as good as ever!

7. Brighten up Your Eyes
Dab pale, shimmery beige or gold creamy eye shadow on your lids and at the inner corners of your eyes to catch the light and to counteract any dullness in the eye area.

8. Avoid Runny Mascara
Smudged mascara can make you look even more tired! To avoid a washout, stick with waterproof mascara.

9. Keep your Lips Shiny
Dry, chapped lips can make you look worse for wear! Rub them gently with a warm, wet washcloth to remove any flakes, and then condition with a rich salve or balm. Stick with tinted lip balm or gloss in a neutral tone for a fresh look.