During the winter, many people suffer from dry skin. But for those who suffer from acne or acne-prone skin, and use acne treatment medications, the winter can be especially difficult.
The problem is that acne medications can be drying. Add to that conditions such as very dry, cold air and biting winds, and the dryness can become aggravated. The end result is skin that becomes chapped, flaky and painfully sensitive.
The inclination may be to stop your acne treatment altogether, just to save your skin. The good news is that you don’t have to.
According to North Carolina-based dermatologist, Zoe Diana Draelos, M.D., the key to treating acne during winter is to make changes to your skin cleansing routine. “Many people with oily and acne-prone skin use cleansers with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or Alpha and Beta Hydroxy acids. These types of products can be too harsh during the winter,” comments Dr. Draelos. She advises altering your skin care regimen by adding a soap-free, gentle cleanser designed for sensitive skin. By switching your cleanser, you will be able to maintain your acne treatment regimen.
You can also add an oil-free moisturizer to your routine. “People with extremely oily skin may not need a moisturizer, even during the winter, but others need to compensate for increased dryness,” says Dr. Draelos. “However,” she adds, “this can be accomplished by applying a moisturizer with silicone derivatives to certain dry areas, such as the cheeks and chin, instead of to the entire face. By using a moisturizer on top of an acne medication containing adapalene, for instance, you won’t decrease its efficacy, but you will counteract dryness,” advises Dr. Draelos.
For more information visit www.differin.com.