Wintertime can be hard on the skin.
Cold weather, wind, and dry indoor air can suck moisture from your skin.
If you feel tight and dry after cleansing, you probably need to switch to a milder cleanser.
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Try switching out your foaming wash for a non-foaming or cream cleanser.
These are less likely to leave that tight, overly-cleansed feeling.
Also, take into account that any cleanser containing acne-fighting ingredients likesalicylic acidand benzoyl peroxide are particularly drying.
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If you needhelp choosing a cleanser, you’re able to ask your dermatologist for recommendations.
Excessive cleansing can dry out the skin, though.
During times when your skin is feeling dry, even a twice-daily cleansing can be too much.
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If the skin on your body is drying out, considerskipping the daily showertoo.
(No, it’s not gross.
Most people over-wash anyway.)
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Or, at the very least, save the soap for B.O.-prone areas and use plain water everywhere else.
When you’re prone to breakouts, it’s normal to shy away from moisturizing creams and lotions.
But to fight tight, dry, flaking and peeling skin, moisturizer is a must.
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Remember, nearly all acne treatment products dry the skin to some extent.
You don’t have to slather on a thick, greasy product though.
Choose a moisturizing gel or lotion.
These are typically lighter products than moisturizing creams or balms.
Whichever moisturizer you choose, be sure it is markednoncomedogenic.
Noncomedogenic products are less likely to cause pore blockages.
Apply your moisturizer after every cleansing.
Your topical acne medications can be applied right over the top.
For optimum sun protection, wear sunscreen 365 days a year.
Sunscreen isn’t just for preventing sunburn.
Not using a sun protection product?
It’s never too late to start.
Truly, there is a product out there that is perfect for you and one you’re love.
There’s no excuse to not be wearing SPF daily.
Besides, someacne treatments make you more susceptible to sun damage.
If you’re using them, it’s doubly important that you’re protecting your skin from the sun.
Try using your treatment products every other day, or even every third day.
This will give your skin a little break, allowing the dryness and irritation to lessen.
Once your skin is feeling better, slowly work up to using your acne medications every day again.
Of course, never change your usage of yourprescription medicationswithout first talking to your dermatologist.
