The cold winter weather can be particularly painful if you already have dry skin. Winter air lacks moisture, and it can suck the hydration from your skin’s natural barrier as a result. If you prefer to avoid cracking and peeling skin this winter, check out this guide to learn how the dry winter air can affect your acne.
Lack of Moisture in the Air
The crisp, chilly air of winter may be refreshing at times, but this dry air is damaging to the skin. Little hydration in the air’s molecules means the skin’s moisture barrier is often under attack. As a result, the skin loses its natural hydration and moisture and begins to peel, crack, and produce acne. If you struggle with dry skin during the winter, using a humidifier is a simple, effective way to retain moisture without further irritating your skin.
Sebum Overproduction
As we just mentioned, since the air lacks natural moisture in the wintertime, your skin is more likely to lose its natural moisture. This significantly affects a type of natural oil in your pores called sebum, which your skin secretes to keep your pores moist and hydrated. However, it often overproduces when the skin is unnaturally dry. As a result, your skin creates too much oil, and it clogs your pores to develop acne. Sebum overproduction is the most common reason why people experience worse acne during winter.
The most effective way to prevent sebum overproduction is by using acne kits for dry skin. These products moisturize your skin without clogging your pores with additional oils.
Temperature Inflammation
Another common cause of worsening acne symptoms during the winter is temperature inflammation. When your skin is exposed to drastically cold temperatures and dry air, these factors can cause the skin to become inflamed and irritated. Skin irritation often leads to disruptions that cause clogged pores and, ultimately, acne.
UV Sun Damage
Sunscreen is not a seasonal skin-care product. In fact, you should include sunscreen in your daily skin-care regimen year round. If this product isn’t already a part of your everyday routine, then sun damage could be the primary source of your worsening winter acne. Although sunburns are not common in the winter, the sun still emits UV rays that cause damage to unprotected skin. This damage creates issues with oil production and clogged pores, and it can end in painful acne breakouts.
We hope this guide on how the dry winter air can affect your acne has been a beneficial resource. To learn other skin-care tips and more about treating acne, browse Jil Goorman Beauty for more information.