WHEN it comes to times of the year that wreak havoc on your skin, we normally think of the hot, sweaty summer months.
But it’s super common to experience acne flare-ups during the wintertime, experts have shared.
GettyHoliday boozing or your favourite scarf could be causing an acne flare up this winter[/caption]
GP Dr Neel Patel from LloydsPharmacy’s Online Doctor said: “If you have acne and have noticed your skin has worsened in recent weeks, you’re not alone.
“Studies have found that many people with acne report that their symptoms are heightened in the winter.”
The GP said a factors like higher stress levels or gorging on rich foods – not uncommon around Christmas – could be behind your recurring spots at this time of year.
But how you shield yourself from the colder weather might also be to blame.
From your favourite scarf to festive treats, here are five reasons your acne seems worse during the winter.
1. You’re not washing your scarf
As colder weather takes hold, many of us rely on our trusty scarf to keep our neck and face warm.
But chances are, you’re not washing this item as much as you should.
You put your scarf in the same category as your coat or gloves, which you wouldn’t clean unless they had obvious stains.
But Dr Meryn Patterson, skin expert and cosmetic doctor at Woodford Medical, told Femail that you should wash your scarf as often as you do your clothes to prevent breakouts.
Slinging this dirty item around your neck daily could be clogging your pores and leading to unwanted pimples.
But popping your scarf in the wash regularly and washing your neck as well as your face will keep your skin clear of the sweat and bacteria that could be causing your spots, Dr Patterson said.
He recommended a cleanser with salicylic acid if you have acne-prone skin.
2. You’re not getting enough vitamin D
“In the spring and summer months between about April and September, most of us can make enough vitamin D through absorbing sunlight through our skin and eating a balanced diet,” Dr Patel said.
“However, in the winter months, many of us don’t get enough of the vitamin.”
According to the GP, “not getting enough vitamin D has been linked with acne”.
He pointed to a 2016 study that found people with a vitamin D deficiency were more than twice as likely to have acne.
“If you notice your acne gets worse in winter, it’s worth considering a vitamin D supplement to help you get the 10mg daily recommendation,” Dr Patel advised.
But supplements aren’t the only route you can go down.
“You can also try increasing the amount of vitamin D-rich food you eat,” the GP went on.
“Oily fish like salmon and mackerel, red meat, fortified breakfast cereals and egg yolks are all great sources.”
3. You’re stressed
Though Christmas is certainly the season to be jolly, the build-up before the holiday could be quite stressful for some.
Unfortunately, your anxiety could be causing your acne to flare up.
As Dr Patel explained: “It’s generally accepted that people prone to acne see their condition get worse when they’re stressed.
“This is because the stress hormone, cortisol, stimulates the production of testosterone and DHT – two hormones that are known to cause acne.”
In these cases, prioritising self care and trying to lower stress levels could restore the health of your skin, the GP said.
He suggested trying to a few stress-busting techniques to see what works for you.
“You could see improvement from a daily walk outside or from trying breathing exercises for stress anxiety,” he said.
4. You’re having a few too many drinks
The festive season can provide many of us with the excuse to drink more than usual, whether it’s a few beers at your Christmas party or mugs of steaming mulled wine at a winter market.
Dr Patel said the increased boozing at winter festivities could have an impact on your skin.
“This is because drinking alcohol impacts the immune system and hormone levels,” he explained.
“Plus, it can lead to skin dehydration which can trigger the overproduction of oil which results in breakouts.”
The GP said it’s best to stick within NHS drinking guidelines if you indulge in alcohol over the next few weeks – that involves drinking no more than 14 units of alcohol a week.
“Having at least a few drink-free days and choosing lower-strength drinks may be a good idea,” he added.
Staying hydrated while drinking will also help your complexion.
“You should also make sure to drink plenty of water,” Dr Patel added.
“Not only will this keep hangovers at bay but it will also hydrate your body, preventing festive breakouts.”
5. You’re having too many festive treats
The festive season is synonymous with rich sugary treats like mince pies and Christmas cake, as well as a daily dose of chocolate from advent calendars.
Dr Patel observed: “Routine and balanced diets can go out the window over the festive season.
“In particular, you may find you eat more foods that are rich in sugar, carbohydrates and dairy – all of which can trigger acne breakouts by causing rising levels of testosterone and DHT.
“While it’s normal to enjoy a slightly different routine towards the end of the year, try to maintain a healthy lifestyle as much as possible,” the GP advised.
“Unfortunately, if you eat too many sugary treats, ultra-processed snacks and dairy products, it’s likely you’ll notice the results on your skin.”