The real reason your skin is so spotty now it’s cold and what you can do about it, according to a GP
YOU can probably feel the sting of winter on your face – dry and flaky patches mingling with acne flare-ups.
Many people with acne experience worse symptoms in the winter months, studies have found.
Luckily, if you refuse to let winter run riot on your skin, there’s certain thing you can do to.
“If you have acne and have noticed your skin has worsened in recent weeks, you’re not alone,” Dr Neel Patel, LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, says.
“Winter acne flare-ups are usually caused by four factors: lack of vitamin D; higher stress levels; increased alcohol consumption; and rich foods.”
He warned that these factors can be particularly common around Christmas time – meaning you might have a big shiner ruining those all-important family pictures.
Dr Neel shared the four things you can do to keep winter acne at bay.
Up vitamin D intake
Dr Neel’s first bit of advice was to introduce more vitamin D into your diet, as a deficiency is thought to be a factor in developing acne.
A 2016 study found those with a vitamin D deficiency were more than twice as likely to have acne.
“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 Neel explained.
“However, in the winter months, many of us don’t get enough of the vitamin.
“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.
“You can also try increasing the amount of vitamin D-rich food you eat. Oily fish like salmon and mackerel, red meat, fortified breakfast cereals and egg yolks are all great sources.”
Alleviate stress
The winter months can be particularly stressful – hello, busy build-up to Christmas and cost of living crisis.
And this stress can show up in acne.
“It’s generally accepted that people prone to acne see their condition get worse when they’re stressed,” Dr Neel said.
“This is because the stress hormone, cortisol, stimulates the production of testosterone and DHT – two hormones that are known to cause acne.
“Prioritising self-care may help to restore the health of your skin.
“Different people find different stress-busting techniques work for them. You could see improvement from a daily walk outside or from trying breathing exercises for stress anxiety.”
Plan alcohol consumption
It’s no secret that consuming alcohol regularly can wreak havoc on your health – including your skin.
Winter festivities typically involve more drinking than usual, duly impacting your immune system and hormone levels.
“Drinking can lead to skin dehydration which can trigger the overproduction of oil which results in breakouts,” Dr Neel said.
“Plan your drinking during the festive period to ensure you’re sticking within NHS-recommended guidelines and 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.
“You should also make sure to drink plenty of water. Not only will this keep hangovers at bay but it will also hydrate your body, preventing festive breakouts.”
Balance your diet
We’re all guilty of throwing balanced meals out of the window at Christmas – but this could be the route cause of your winter acne.
“Diets, routine and balanced diets can go out the window over the festive season,” Dr Neel warned.
“In particular, you may find you eat more foods that are rich in sugar, carbohydrates and dairy – all of which can trigger acne breakouts.”
“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.
“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.”