Winter Skin Care Routine For Acne Prone Skin

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Winter and acne-prone skin

Those who suffer with acne can experience breakouts when dealing with weather extremes. Summer weather can cause excess oil due to sweat, while winter can cause exercise dryness and irritation. “Acne breakouts are common during winter months,” Pharmacist Stuart Gale from Oxford Online Pharmacy tells Tidylife. “The combination of the cold weather, central heating and lack of sunshine can all lead to skin problems you’d rather avoid.”

Avoiding dry skin is a must for keeping your skin clear, as clogged pores can cause some serious break-outs and irritation.

Finding ways to counteract the effects of winter can help you keep your skin looking clean and clear, with added protection during the colder months.

Your winter skincare routine

Acne-prone skin can benefit from a dedicated winter routine to help it maintain its appearance. Follow the steps below to help you maintain that fresh winter glow.

1. Use a gentle cleanser

A gentle cleanser is a must-have to balance out the harsh effects of winter weather. Cream cleansers or foaming cleansers can help remove excess oil and dirt without causing further irritation. Take a look at the best cleansers to help you find the right product for your needs.

Try to avoid using makeup wipes where possible. They can be very drying for your skin.

2. Apply glycolic acid to exfoliate skin

Glycolic acid has a number of benefits for acne-prone skin. It acts as a chemical exfoliant, which is gentler than using a scrub-based product. Using a glycolic acid toner will help remove dead skin cells, as well as reduce scarring for acne.

If your skin is sensitive, you should try a gentle glycolic acid formula to help your skin get used to the product. You can then increase the volume over time. Some serums also contain glycolic acid, and are best applied before bed to work their magic overnight, leaving you with glowing, hydrated skin in the morning.

3. Moisturise regularly

Keeping your skin moisturised is the most important step for tackling winter skin problems. While you might be reluctant to use moisturiser for your acne-prone skin, there are oil-free varieties that will help to keep your skin hydrated without producing excess oil. Apply your moisturiser after cleansing and toning in the morning and the evening.

4. Apply hydrating serums to lock in moisture

If you find your moisturiser isn’t going the distance, you should consider applying a hydrating serum as part of your skincare routine. Serums can help you lock in your skin’s moisture, and give your moisturiser some staying power too.

5. Remember to stay hydrated

Hydrated skin depends on more than your skincare routine alone. You should aim to drink at least two litres of water a day to keep your skin hydrated from within, and more if you’re exercising or drinking alcohol. Sip regularly throughout the day to help your skin benefit.

6. Change your pillowcases regularly

How often do you change your pillowcase? If you’re not changing it regularly, you could find that it’s a magnet for dirt and dry skin, which transfers to your face while you sleep. Changing your pillowcases around will help you keep them clean, and you should aim to change them every couple of days or use a soft towel to act as a barrier.

There are a lot of benefits of using a silk pillow that could make it a great choice for your winter skin, helping to keep your skin smooth and free from excess oil.

7. Use a face mask to perk up your skin

Using a face mask makes the perfect skincare treat, but it will also bring a lot of benefits to your skin too. You can choose from a range of mask types, including anti-blemish, brightening or hydrating masks to help keep your skin in check. Avoid using anything harsh that might leave your skin drier than before.

Look for a mask that’s suitable for your specific skin concerns to help you experience the full benefit of using a mask.

8. Spend time outside

The winter months are dark and cold, without much sunshine throughout the day. Sunlight can benefit your skin, giving you a vitamin D boost. Spending time outside is also great for your mental health, and it can help regulate your sleeping pattern. Remember, just because it’s winter, doesn’t mean you should forget the SPF, so choose products that provide you with some sun protection.

Adjust your makeup routine

If you want to avoid further irritation during the winter months, consider adjusting your makeup routine. An oil-free primer is a fantastic product to keep your skin hydrated, while also making it easier to apply makeup. Your foundation should be in a lighter formula that won’t irritate your skin further. A matte foundation can help you reduce the appearance of any acne, but don’t apply a heavy layer – it will help you keep your skin clearer.

Remember to clean your makeup brushes too with a specialist brush cleaner, this will help you avoid building up dirt that can clog your pores and cause a breakout.

The effects of winter can have a big impact on acne-prone skin, making it difficult to manage. If you take steps to keep your skin hydrated, your skin will be easier to manage, helping to keep those uncomfortable breakouts at bay. Overhaul your skincare routine and say hello to gorgeous, glowing skin this winter.