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Skin Care Through the Seasons: An Evergreen Guide

By Erika Luceri-Johnson

Do you have a skincare regimen that you stick to religiously? If so, you might be doing your complexion more harm than good. As important as it is to find the right face wash for your skin type, trying to treat acne the same way year round might actually be contributing to your breakouts. Here’s how you should change your cleansing habits with the changing seasons.

How to Wash In Winter

Just like you protect yourself from the chill of winter with hats and coats, you should protect your face with extra moisturizer during these skin-drying months. As the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) reminds us, “cold weather and lack of moisture can cause cracking, chapping and irritation”. Since most acne medications work by drying out skin and preventing excess oil, it’s important to be extra cautious of overdoing it; when skin gets too dry, acne-causing oil glands react by producing extra sebum, making skin oilier and more acne-prone than ever.

So how can you tweak your routine for cool weather? If you feel your skin getting too dry, consider cutting back on products containing harsh ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Instead, use a gentle cleanser that will help your skin retain moisture. Whether your skin is oily or dry, winter is a good time to invest in a quality, non-comedogenic moisturizer.

Skin Care In The Summer

In the summer, however, extra moisture is often the last thing your skin wants (or needs!). As the weather gets hotter and humidity sets in, your skin will find ways to combat the heat, particularly by upping production of oil and sweat. According to InStyle, to avoid breakouts on your beach days, it’s essential to use a cleanser that will really clear away all those excess oils.

Avoid Sweating It — No Matter The Season

As dermatologists have discovered, it’s not just the heat of summer or the harsh winter winds that exacerbate acne. The truth is, no matter what season, if you’re working up a sweat, you’re increasing your chances of breaking out. Football season, for instance, is a popular time for pimples — after all, between the airtight helmets and snug chinstraps, there are plenty of places for sweat to pool and settle, clogging pores and causing acne. The solution? Consult a dermatologist for advice on different prescription and over-the-counter options until you find something that helps you retain moisture during dry weather, and wash away excess oil during sweatier seasons.

Looking for help with your acne? Join ClearlyDerm’s Virtual Acne Program for personalized treatments without the hassle of an in-office visit.