Tips for Acne Relief in the Winter

Posted on: February 2nd, 2018 by Shany Batbold

You probably already know what an impact acne can have on how we feel about ourselves. You may find yourself shying away from attending social events, or feel uncomfortable being in front of others when you’re battling a blemish. However, it’s important to remember that acne is a common condition.

The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that 85% of individuals aged 12-24 are affected by acne.

Dry winter weather may aggravate acne
Breakouts during the winter months are totally normal. Since there is less moisture in the air compared to the spring or summer seasons, your skin may become drier, leading to acne breakouts.

Here are some everyday tips to avoid acne breakouts this winter.

Use a gentle cleanser
The cleanser you use in spring and summer may not be ideal for winter use. In fact, it can dry out your skin even further, which may cause your skin to produce more oil to compensate for the dryness. Oil buildup clogs pores and can lead to breakouts. Instead, opt for a hydrating cleanser.

Use a rich moisturizer
Rich moisturizers aren’t ideal for the hot weather we experience in spring and summer, but they are perfect for keeping skin hydrated during the winter months. There are different types of moisturizers for different skin types. If you are unsure of which is best for your skin type, consult your dermatologist for a recommendation on which moisturizer is best for you.

Stay hydrated
We all know that drinking plenty of water is crucial to maintaining healthy skin. Dehydration can lead to dry skin, which we know causes skin to produce additional oil and clog pores. Challenge yourself to drink 8-10 glasses of water per day.

Avoid over-exfoliation
Exfoliating your skin too much can cause dryness. Pair this with dry winter air and you have a potential recipe for disaster. If you exfoliate your skin regularly, make sure to follow up after with a moisturizer.

Pay attention to benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid
Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid work by drying out acne, which isn’t always great for dry winter skin. You don’t need to avoid these ingredients completely – simply look for products with a lower concentration of benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid.

Not everyone’s skin will react the same to changing weather and temperatures, and when selecting skincare products it’s important to know what works best for your skin type. Our dermatologists are here to help you navigate through these decisions. Book an appointment with your local CSI provider below if you have questions or would like additional consultation on how to beat the acne blues.