The cold and dry realities of winter in Utah can contribute to or exacerbate a number of skin issues, and acne is definitely high up on this list. Luckily, even despite the dry climate in Salt Lake City and surrounding areas, there are several basic ways to manage and treat acne in the winter.
At Skintherapy Skincare & Acne Clinic, we're proud to serve as the top skin care clinic in Salt Lake City and nearby parts of Utah, with a wide range of acne treatment services for patients of varying needs. Here are some of the reasons why acne can often be particularly severe during winter months, especially in our dry state, plus some simple tips and approaches for avoiding major winter acne issues.
There's a direct connection between the cold weather and dry air present during winter months, and how acne forms or grows on the skin. In particular, winter can cause dehydration in your skin cells, and this is something to watch out for if you're already prone to acne.
One reason why skin gets more dehydrated during winter is because of humidity levels; when these drop, you get less moisture from the surrounding atmosphere too. Not only that, but as a result of lower temperatures, most people tend to take hot showers and baths more frequently than they would do in warmer conditions. While feeling nice at the time (especially when it's freezing outside!), this heat can also dry out your pores.
Moreover, harsh winds often accompany the cold in some parts of Utah during winter, which can cause dryness and irritation on your skin. This also leads to increased production of sebum (oil) in the skin, causing clogged pores and breakouts.
In terms of vulnerability to winter acne issues, the list is identical to those who are most prone to non-seasonal acne. Anyone can get acne, but certain factors can make some individuals more likely to experience it. These include genetics, hormone levels, and diet.
However, there are also some specific conditions that may worsen during the winter months for a variety of reasons. For example, people who have dry skin or eczema may notice an increase in breakouts due to the already fragile state of their skin being further dried out by the harsh winter conditions.
Our next several sections will go over some basic tips on acne management in the winter, including both at-home and professional approaches.
Moisturizing is always important, but it becomes even more so during winter months when the air is dryer. It's essential to use a moisturizer that is formulated specifically for acne-prone skin, as using the wrong type can clog pores and lead to further breakouts. Look for non-comedogenic (non-pore-clogging) products that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides, which help to hydrate the skin without causing additional oil production.
While cleansing your face twice a day is important for removing dirt and excess oil, over-cleansing can strip your skin of its natural oils and disrupt its moisture barrier. This can actually make acne worse, as the skin will produce even more oil to compensate for the dryness. Stick to gentle cleansers and avoid exfoliating too frequently during the winter months.
While we know it's tempting to take long, hot showers or baths during the cold winter months, this can actually dry out your skin and worsen acne. Stick to lukewarm water when washing your face and body, and try to limit your shower time to 10 minutes or less.
In some cases, certain foods can trigger or exacerbate acne breakouts. Dairy products and high-glycemic foods (such as processed sugars and refined carbohydrates) are known to have this effect. During winter months, when we tend to crave comfort foods and may indulge in heavier, less healthy options, it's important to be mindful of these potential triggers for acne.
In addition to at-home care, seeking professional acne treatment can also be highly beneficial for managing acne during the winter. At Skintherapy Skincare & Acne Clinic, we offer a variety of treatments such as chemical peels, creams and gels, hormonal treatments and more to help combat winter acne. Our experienced estheticians can create a personalized treatment plan to target your specific skin concerns and provide you with lasting results.
At the end of the day, preventing and managing winter acne boils down to keeping your skin hydrated and balanced. By following these tips and incorporating professional acne treatments as needed, you can enjoy clearer, healthier skin all year round in even the harshest Utah winters. Contact us today at Skintherapy Skincare & Acne clinic to learn more or schedule an appointment!
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