Unfortunately, many teenagers and adults can experience dry skin and acne simultaneously, and one condition may impact the severity of the other. For example, harsh acne treatments can worsen naturally dry skin; therefore, your skincare routine must be beneficial for both conditions. Consider why dry skin can cause acne and ways to improve it to increase your skin’s overall health.
Dryness Prompts Oil Production
People with oily skin are more likely to struggle with breakouts, but dry skin can also play a role in developing acne. For instance, dryness prompts your skin to produce more oil to compensate, which can clog your pores and cause acne as a result. Whether the dryness is a result of genetics, acne treatments, or over-cleansing, you may experience unwanted breakouts.
Acne Treatment Causes Dryness
If you struggle with acne-prone skin, you may get stuck in an endless cycle of flakiness, irritation, and breakouts because one causes the other. Many common acne treatments are incredibly harsh and lead to extreme dryness, which is why people give up on them.
You might think a stronger treatment concentration is best when it comes to reducing breakouts, but that’s not always the case. In fact, higher-strength products may worsen dryness and irritation, which can increase acne. On the other hand, a more gentle concentration may be effective at fighting acne with less dryness.
Skincare for Dry, Acne-Prone Skin
Although acne and dry skin are difficult to manage, the proper skincare routine can help you balance your skin. Consider the following steps and products to combat your undesirable skin condition.
Gentle Cleanser
Regardless of skin type, you must use a cleanser to rid your skin of dirt, oil, debris, and makeup. However, a gentle cleanser may be the best option for dry, acne-prone skin. You should use it twice daily to keep your pores clear, but keep in mind that it is possible to over-cleanse. Over-cleansing your face can result in additional dryness and irritation because it strips the skin’s natural barrier.
Non-Comedogenic Moisturizer
Dry skin needs an effective moisturizer, but many heavy formulas can clog pores and cause acne. With that in mind, you need a non-comedogenic moisturizer with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides.
Avoid Harsh Toners and Acne Treatments
Many people with acne try to fight it with drying, alcohol-based products, but that may make it worse. Drying up individual breakouts might help in the short term, but these products also strip your skin’s natural barrier and cause other issues.
Now that you know why dry skin can cause acne and how to improve it, you can make better decisions regarding your skincare routine and product choices. If you’re unsure where to start with your skincare, consider a complete acne kit for dry skin to put you on the path to beautiful, clear, and balanced skin.