Winter acne: how to manage imperfection-prone dry skin

Although many people suffering from imperfection-prone skin report a perceived worsening of symptoms in winter, the phenomenon of ‘seasonal’ acne isn’t supported by research.

While there is some evidence to suggest that UV rays have a positive impact on the appearance of imperfections[1] - at least initially - contrary to popular belief, winter doesn’t necessarily lead to worsening acne.

A self-assessment study conducted on 139 participants found a third reported aggravated acne symptoms in winter, a third in summer, and a third reporting no seasonal change whatsoever.[2]
While acne sufferers’ perceptions of their symptoms can vary widely, other studies have found no concrete evidence pointing towards seasonal changes as an aggravating factor in acne severity.[3][4]

In winter as in summer, the key to treating acne symptoms lies in managing skin’s sebum levels and avoiding transmitting bacteria responsible for acne elsewhere on the face.

When it comes to managing acne in winter, it’s important to make sure skin is sufficiently hydrated to combat cold or dry winds and temperatures, without throwing sebum production off-balance.

Going overboard on alcohol-based toners or traditional astringents can lead to skin ‘overcompensating’ by producing even more sebum to counteract this perceived dryness. As a result, you should opt for a richer day cream in winter to respond to dehydrating conditions, while making sure to thoroughly cleanse skin to avoid spreading bacteria.

As well as adapting your skincare routine to take winter conditions into account, it may help to make a couple of lifestyle changes when temperatures start to drop. Avoid non-hypoallergenic products that could irritate skin - not always easy when it comes to Christmas gift sets - and try not to go overboard with hot baths or showers, as extreme temperatures can irritate sensitive skin.

Sources:
[1] http://www.dermagazine.fr/soleil-et-acne-pas-vraiment-amis/
[2] Gfesser, M. et al, ‘Seasonal variations in the severity of acne vulgaris’ in International Journal of Dermatology 35.2 (1996) pp. 116-117
[3] Al-Ameer, A. et al, ‘Demographic features and seasonal variations in patients with acne vulgaris in Saudi Arabia: a hospital-based study’ in International journal of dermatology 41.12 (2002) pp. 870-871
[4] Sardana, K. et al, ‘Seasonal variation in acne vulgaris--myth or reality’ in The Journal of dermatology 29.8 (2002) pp. 484-488