Cold winter weather can easily harm sensitive acne prone skin. Plus with the use of acne fighting products, the skin tends to become dry, flaky, irritated and more prone to breakouts.
Here is the reason why:
As the weather gets cooler and humidity levels decrease, the skin tends to dry out and become dehydrated. While the oil production is still at float, the dehydration causes extra dry, – dead skin cells to build up on the surface of the skin. Theses skin cells mix with the oil in the pores and from tiny micro-comedones. The result is trapped oil and bacteria underneath the surface of the skin resulting in increased breakouts.
So what should you do to prevent winter break-outs?
1., Change your Cleanser
Put your exfoliating cleanser or acne scrub on the side and switch to a Gentle Gel Cleanser. Using a gentle cleanser will still help remove any unwanted residue from the surface of the skin, but it won’t leave you feeling dry or tight after washing your face.
2., Use A Hydrating Toner
While using toners with exfoliating and antibacterial ingredients (such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid) are beneficial for acne prone skin, you want to give them a rest during the dry and cold winter months. It is important to avoid any alcohol or acid that could over dry the skin and could cause more breakouts. Look for a Moisture Balance Toner or Hydrating Toner with heavy water and calming chamomile to soothe dry, dehydrated skin.
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3., Boost hydration with a water based Hydrating Gel
Hydration is very important in the fall when the temperatures are cooler. The exfoliating products you use to reduce oil in your skin and to prevent acne from forming usually depletes a lot of water. The dehydrated skin has trouble healing; it flakes more and is more prone to breakouts.
We recommend adding a water-based serum or gel including hyaluronic acid in your daily routine. Hyaluronic acid is a natural humectant, which means it takes water from the air and locks it into your skin. It is extremely hydrating and helps prevent dryness, dehydration. Drinking enough water can also help to give your skin the moisture it needs. It also helps to maintain elasticity and prevent dryness.
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4., Change the frequency of using your active serums and acne med
If your skin is feeling very dry, start to sting or turns red, you may want to scale back on using your acne fighting lotions and serums. Try skipping your actives for 3 days (just cleanse, tone and moisturize) until the dryness and flaking lessen. You can also switch to a lower strength of Acne Gel or Mandelic Serum to prevent any uncomfortable dryness.
Of course, never change the usage of your home care products without first talking to your Acne Specialist.
5., Schedule A Hydrating LED Light Treatment
It is more important now than any other time of the year to receive your monthly or biweekly customized treatment. The cold weather, harsh winds and lack of humidity can cause a variety of skin problems. That is why it is important to receive a professional treatment to rehydrate and rebuild damaged skin. The best treatment for dry acne prone skin is the Hydrating Acne treatment with LED light. The LED light has fantastic benefits to reduce acne, fade scarring and to rebuild the lost collagen in the skin.
Click here to book an Acne Treatment with LED light
If you are suffering from acne and still could not find a solution to clear up your skin, Envision Acne and Skin Care Center has a proven Acne Free Skin Program ™ that will clear up your skin in 90 days.
Do you need expert skin care advice from a licensed esthetician/acne specialist? Schedule your appointment for a consultation to get the personalized advice on products and treatments that are right for you.
© 2015 Nikolett Ivanyi, Envision Acne Center; For more information go to www.envisionacnecenter.com