How To Get Rid of Acne In The Winter?

No one likes to see pimples forming on their face, whether it’s summer or winter. It might seem that your acne is worse in the humid, summer months, but that is actually just a myth. Blemishes are common for just about everyone, especially in the winter.

Acne breakouts are primarily caused by an increase in sebum production, a type of small oil gland in the skin that becomes secreted to help the skin retain moisture. When too much of this sebum is produced, skin cells are more likely to stick together, clogging up the pores, which then leads to breakouts.

Even though these types of conditions are common, they still aren’t fun, and can be mentally draining to wait for them to retreat on their own. What can be done in the meantime to leave your skin supple and radiant for those annual holiday photos?

How to get rid of acne in the winter




Why does my acne get worse in the winter?

 

A common trouble area for sebum build-up in winter is the “T-zone,” an area on the face that includes the forehead, nose, and chin. This area contains more sebum-producing glands than nearly any other part of the body and is therefore more prone to pimples. The dryer the season, the more sebum is created, which leaves many of those at risk for breakouts who don’t typically have skincare concerns throughout the year.

Acne breakouts can occur in other parts of the body. Many people who only have winter acne may be more likely to experience breakouts on other parts of their bodies, including the shoulders, chest, back, neck, and arms. Even patients who don’t typically have acne breakouts on other parts of their bodies may experience winter acne flare-ups on their faces and other parts of their bodies.

Since so many fall victim to winter acne breakouts, there are numerous causes as a result that can lead to these annoyances:

 

  1. TOUCHING YOUR FACE:

    Touching your face is perhaps one of the greatest causes of breakouts. Throughout the day, you are touching countless surfaces and objects (your smartphone, doorknobs, handles, etc.) which can contribute to different types of germs, dirt, and bacteria remaining on your hands.



  2. LACK OF MOISTURE:

    A lack of moisture in the skin, as well as dehydration, are common causes of acne and why people tend to break out more in the winter months. Though typically mistaken for the same treatment, it’s essential to focus on moisturizing and hydrating the skin independently from one another.

    In the winter months, our skin is constantly losing moisture. There is naturally less moisture in the air during this time of year, compromising the skin’s natural protective barrier and making the skin feel rougher as a result. This makes for the skin’s barrier to not stand as much of a chance of fighting off bacteria and infections that can be harmful to the skin.

     

  3. STRESS:

    Stress is often a primary factor when it comes to skin-related issues. Those with chronic inflammatory skin conditions, such as acne, rosacea, psoriasis, and eczema, can lead to further inflammation and irritation. Cold exposure during the winter months alone is considered a form of stress, especially if your body is not yet acclimated to the frigid temperatures early in the season.


  4. EXCESSIVE CLEANING:

    Given how your skin feels in the winter and its craving for moisture, let alone the fact that most people are self-conscious when it comes to acne breakouts, it is tempting to cleanse the skin and apply as many products as possible to rid yourself of these occurrences once and for all.

    There is, however, such a thing as     too much cleansing, especially in the winter months. Lukewarm water should always be utilized over hot water, despite the temptation to be warmer in colder climates. Bathing in hot temperatures for too long can further dry and irritate the skin.



How do you prevent breakouts in the winter?​

 

Here are some tips to help prevent acne breakouts in the winter:

  1. Keep your skin moisturized. The cold, dry air can cause your skin to dry out and overproduce oils, leading to more acne. Try an oil-free moisturizer formulated for acne-prone skin and apply it twice daily.
  2. Avoid excessive exfoliation. Regular exfoliation is one thing and it can be tempting to scrub your skin more in winter, but over-exfoliating can cause irritation and worsen breakouts. Use a gentle cleanser and exfoliate just 2-3 times a week.
  3. Wash your face after being outdoors. The cold weather and wind can cause dirt and bacteria to accumulate on your skin, not to mention windburn. Wash with a gentle cleanser as soon as possible once indoors.
  4. Consider using a clarifying treatment. Salicylic acid cleansers, toners, or spot treatments can deeply penetrate the pores and keep them clearer in winter. Use them 2-3 times a week where needed.
  5. Bathe in lukewarm water. Opting for lukewarm temperatures as opposed to hotter temperatures will help retain more moisture in your skin as you bathe and cleanse in the winter months.
  6. Use oil-blotting sheets. Carry them with you to remove excess oil and shine whenever needed to prevent buildup in pores. Be sure to focus on the T-zone in particular.
  7. Adjust your diet if needed. Foods high in sugar may exacerbate acne. Cut back if you notice a correlation and aim for a more balanced, anti-inflammatory diet.


Recommended Winter Acne Solutions: Dermatologist advised

Winter acne can be further exacerbated by using acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and retinoids. These ingredients tend to be drier and more sensitive on the skin, leaving it more vulnerable to skin conditions and unwanted effects. Though every skincare user should adjust their routines for seasonal changes, this can sometimes be even more essential for people who struggle with acne in the winter.

Thankfully, for most people affected, acne breakouts are temporary and there are several resources available in the modern skincare industry to combat these issues, particularly seasonal conditions that may worsen depending on the time of year.

  • Maintain Skin Hydration

Staying hydrated in the winter is of utmost importance, as your skin is constantly losing moisture and dehydration can cause other symptoms, such as aging signs. Make sure you are drinking enough water in the drier months to ensure your skin is retaining as much moisture as possible.

  • Keep Up With a Skincare Routine

In terms of skincare products, gentle cleansers and exfoliators, as well as oil-free moisturizers, are all great additions to any medicine cabinet. Mild products with humectant ingredients (hyaluronic acid, glycerin) and even certain retinol products can help with clearing up the skin during breakouts.

Hyaluronic acid and glycerin, in particular, naturally attract water, further assisting in keeping the skin balanced and healthy. By utilizing these types of products on your skin daily, you will leave your skin better equipped to fight against the dry air and other external factors that can damage the skin during our daily lives.

Ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide are often found in cleansers and other skin care products that are formulated to fight acne. While these ingredients help break down oils that clog pores, they can also strip away moisture. During the wintertime, use these products sparingly. If you have an active breakout, switch to spot treatments and apply a small amount directly to blemishes rather than treating the entire face or areas where you are not experiencing a breakout.

Given that our skin is naturally stressed while battling the colder temperatures, focusing on mental health and stress intake could not be more important in the winter. Consider incorporating more physical activity and exercise into your daily routine, even if for twenty to thirty minutes. Other practices, such as yoga and meditation, have also been found to help those with chronic skin conditions. It may not seem like it, but your body will be thanking you for any amount of stress hormones you are ridding the body of acting upon.

  • Protect Your Skin in Adverse Conditions

When venturing outside, layering up is an extra step you can take not only to stay warm but to keep your skin protected as well. If your skin isn’t able to react to the cold weather by being covered by a hat, scarf, or other winter accessories, this will keep more moisture locked in throughout the day.


Skincare Ingredients that helps with Winter Acne

let's talk about these skincare ingredients in a more relatable way, especially for those chilly winter months when your skin might be throwing a bit of a tantrum with acne.
Here are some of the best skincare ingredients to consider include:

  1. Hyaluronic Acid: Think of this as a big drink of water for your skin. When it's cold and dry outside, your skin can get dehydrated, leading to all sorts of issues, including acne. Hyaluronic acid helps keep your skin hydrated and happy.

  2. Ceramides: These are like the armor for your skin, keeping the good stuff in and the bad stuff out. They help your skin stay strong and moisturized, which is super important when dealing with harsh winter weather.

  3. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): This is like a chill pill for your skin. It calms down redness and irritation, helps keep your skin's oil production in check, and can even make your skin texture look smoother. It's a real multitasker.

  4. Salicylic Acid: This is your go-to for keeping pores clear. It's like a tiny Pac-Man, munching away at dead skin cells and gunk that can clog your pores. Just use it carefully in winter, as it can be a bit drying.

  5. Squalane: If your skin is the Goldilocks type – not too oily, not too dry – squalane is perfect. It's a lightweight oil that won't clog your pores but will give you that extra bit of moisture you need.

  6. Glycerin: This is like a magnet for moisture. It pulls water into your skin, helping to keep it plump and moisturized, which is super important when you're trying to keep acne at bay.

  7. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): These are your gentle exfoliators. They help get rid of dead skin cells that can hang around and cause breakouts, and they give your skin a more radiant look.

  8. Tea Tree Oil: Think of this as nature's antiseptic. It's great for targeting those pesky pimples without being too harsh. Just remember to dilute it because it's pretty strong.

  9. Sulfur: This might not sound glamorous, but it's great for drying out those annoying zits. It's like a mini-detox for your pores.

  10. Zinc: This is the undercover agent in the fight against acne. It's anti-inflammatory, so it helps calm down any angry breakouts, and it's also thought to help reduce oil production.

Remember, skincare is all about finding what works for you. What's a hero product for one person might not work for another, so always listen to your skin and maybe even have a chat with a dermatologist if you're unsure. And don't forget, a little TLC for your skin, especially in winter, goes a long way!

Recommended Hydrating Serums for the winter season


Our carefully-formulated peptide serum is a must for anti-aging treatment in the drier months. Paired synergistically with our Matrixyl® 3000 serum , they work in conjunction to halt aging signs, hydrate and retain moisture in the skin, further providing your skin with a protective barrier for the colder climates. It is most effective when applied two times per day, after using cleanser and toner.


 

Relaxation and de-stressing are vital for skin health, and our Cica Calm & Repair Serum is no exception to that rule. Crafted to calm, repair, and soothe the skin, in that order, hyaluronic acid is a powerful ingredient in this serum that works to absorb water, bind it to collagen, and retain that moisture for a plumper appearance. Your secret to smoother, nourished skin in the winter has arrived.

 

 

Meet the guardian of your complexion: the N.A.T. Hyperpigmentation Defense Serum. This serum is all about giving you back that even, spot-free skin you love. Just a few drops on areas like your cheeks, and you're on your way to saying goodbye to age spots. And when the winter chill brings along unwanted acne, this serum steps up to defend your skin. To really round out your skincare routine, add our Under Eye patches for that extra sparkle.



Recommended moisturizers for the winter season


Meet our game-changing multi-purpose balm stick, now perfectly sized for your every winter seasonal needs. Infused with the opulence of black caviar and a powerhouse of hydrating ingredients, this little wonder is your secret weapon against those sneaky fine lines and dry patches.

Imagine stepping out with skin that's not just hydrated but positively glowing – that's the magic of our balm stick. It's like having a mini spa treatment at your fingertips, ready to pamper your skin anytime, anywhere. Whether you're rushing between meetings or freshening up for a night out, this serum-infused stick fits effortlessly into your lifestyle, keeping your skin looking and feeling its best.

And there's more! Our balm stick isn't just about radiant skin; it's also your ally in keeping your makeup looking flawless all day. Say goodbye to caking and drying, and hello to makeup that stays fresh and vibrant, just like you. Tap into the power of caviar and see the transformation for yourself. Your skin deserves the best – give it the gift of glow and hydration with our balm stick. Grab yours today and let your skin do the talking!"

 

 

Our Matriplex™ Cream, formerly known as Tri-Active Complex Cream, is here to revolutionize your skincare game. Infused with the powerhouse trio of Matrixyl® 3000, Matrixyl® SYNTHE’6®, and Matrixyl® Morphomics®, it's more than just a moisturizer – it's your skin's key in the fighting against aging.

Imagine a cream that doesn’t just sit on your skin but dives deep into its layers during dry winter skin, targeting every type of wrinkle, nourishing your complexion, and breathing new life into every pore. This luxurious formula is your daily ticket to a more youthful, vibrant you. It's not just about looking younger; it's about feeling rejuvenated and confident in your skin.

Whether you're battling dryness, fine lines, or just the everyday toll of life, our Matriplex™ Cream is tailored for all skin types, especially for those who yearn for that extra hydration and revival. Rich with ingredients like Matrixyl® Complex, Soybean Extract, Niacinamide, and Sodium PCA, each application is a promise of improved texture and reduced appearance of fine lines.

Ready to turn back the clock and reveal the best version of your skin? Let the Matriplex™ Cream be your daily ritual for radiance and rejuvenation.

 

 

Winter can be tough on your skin, but our Retinol Night Cream is your perfect ally. Enriched with 0.5% pure retinol, it combats dryness and the visible signs of aging that come with cold weather. This cream goes beyond typical hydration - it rejuvenates and refines skin texture, fighting off fine lines and winter dullness.

If winter breakouts are your concern, our cream's blend of retinol, niacinamide, and vitamin E works effectively to regulate oil production and keep pores clear, offering a clear, refreshed complexion. Plus, for those new to retinol, our gentle formula is ideal for easing into its benefits, especially during the challenging winter months.

Embrace our Retinol Night Cream as your winter skincare essential. It's more than just a night cream; it's a daily promise for a radiant, youthful complexion, even in the harshest of winters. Get ready to wake up to smoother, brighter skin every day!"

 



How to remove pimples naturally in the winter season?

These are some common tips other users have found useful to help with removing pimples naturally and permanently in the winter:

  1. Use a honey mask. Honey has antimicrobial properties that can eliminate bacteria and reduce inflammation. Mix a small dab of raw honey with a splash of water and apply to clean skin for 10-15 minutes before rinsing.

  2. Turn to tea tree oil. Tea tree oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Dilute 2-3 drops with a tablespoon of carrier oil like jojoba and dab onto individual pimples 1-2 times per day. Aloe vera and other essential oils, such as lavender and rosemary, have also been shown to produce similar anti-inflammatory effects.

  3. Apply a cold compress. Icing pimples can reduce pain, swelling, and redness. Wrap some ice cubes in a soft cloth and hold them against pimples for 5-10 minutes at a time, twice daily.Drink turmeric tea and green tea. Their anti-inflammatory compounds can help clear pimples from the inside out. Consider having one cup of each daily and watch the results.

  4. Consistency is key for preventing winter acne long-term. Stick with natural methods 2-3 times per week all season to reap the benefits.


Conclusion : acne breakouts during winter

Acne breakouts are always a burden no matter the occasion, but they shouldn’t be feared or dreaded. There are numerous resolutions available to users nowadays that ensure you won’t be suffering for long, assuming you know where to look or which professionals to reach out to for consultations.

Certain skincare ingredients, lifestyle changes, and remaining hydrated are all incredible lengths you can go to in order to prevent breakouts in the winter months. Depending on your condition or skin type, you should always seek out a medical professional if your case is severe or not going away so that you can enjoy the winter season with loved ones and pose confidently in group pictures.

Written by Adam Letavish