As the temperature drops and winter rolls in, many start to experience more frequent and stubborn acne breakouts. If you’re struggling with winter skin issues, you’re not alone, and the solution isn’t another round of harsh creams or medications.
At Face Five Acne Clinic, we believe in healing acne from the inside out. Winter skincare isn’t just about what they apply to their skin; it’s about understanding the root cause of their breakouts and supporting their body during the colder months.
Here’s how you can help manage and even improve your acne this winter, naturally and effectively.
1. Switch to a Hydrating Skincare Routine
Cold air, wind, and indoor heating can strip the skin of its natural moisture barrier. When the skin gets too dry, it can trigger an overproduction of oil, leading to clogged pores and more breakouts.
What to do:
- Use a gentle, non-stripping cleanser with no sulfates or alcohol (like Face Five’s Creamy Cleanser and Sensitive Skin Cleansing Gel).
- Swap out oil-free moisturizers with lightweight but hydrating creams (like Face Five’s Peptide 17 and Chagarizer).
- Avoid harsh exfoliants that can cause micro-tears and inflammation.
Face Five Tip: Hydration doesn’t mean heavy. Look for products that soothe and support the skin barrier without clogging pores.
2. Watch Out for Hidden Food Triggers
Winter is soup and cocoa season, but some of your favorite seasonal treats could be triggering acne flares.
Common winter acne triggers include:
- Dairy (milk, hot chocolate, cheese)
- Sugar and Refined Carbs (cookies, pastries, pasta)
- Iodized Salt (often found in processed soups and canned foods)
What to do:
- Opt for dairy-free alternatives (like oat or almond milk).
- Encourage whole foods like roasted vegetables, hearty lentil soups, and fresh fruits.
- Support blood sugar balance with protein-rich snacks like boiled eggs, hummus, or nuts.
Face Five Tip: Food is medicine. Everyone has a unique root cause behind their acne; what works for one might not work for another. Pay attention to how your skin responds to certain foods. Want to learn a little more about Holiday Food Triggers? Check out our Blog on How To Keep Your Skin Clear During The Holiday Season.
3. Avoid Over-Moisturizing or Using Occlusive Ingredients
While it’s tempting to slather on rich creams to “protect” the skin from the cold, heavy oils and butters (like coconut oil or shea butter) can clog pores and make acne worse.
What to do:
- Choose non-comedogenic moisturizers designed for acne-prone skin. (Try our Ceramoisture Cream or Aqua Boost).
- Avoid layering multiple thick products. (More isn’t always better)
Face Five Tip: Less is often more. Focus on supporting the skin barrier with the right ingredients, not just heavy ones.
4. Boost Internal Hydration
Dehydration is a silent acne trigger, especially in winter, when we’re less likely to drink water. Dry skin can cause inflammation, making it easier for acne bacteria to spread.
What to do:
- Drink warm lemon water or herbal teas throughout the day.
- Add hydrating foods to meals, such as cucumbers, oranges, soups with bone broth, and leafy greens.
- Reduce caffeinated sodas or energy drinks, which dehydrate the skin.
Face Five Tip: Glowing skin starts from within. Water-rich foods are just as important as what goes on the skin.
5. Don’t Skip SPF! Yes, Even in Winter
Many ditch sunscreen in the winter, thinking it’s only for summer. But UV rays are still active, especially on cloudy daays and in snowy conditions, which can reflect light and worsen post-acne pigmentation.
What to do:
- Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic SPF daily, even when it’s cold. (Like our Tinted and Non-Tinted SPF)
- Choose mineral-based sunscreens (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) that are gentle on sensitive, acne-prone skin. (More Sensitive? Try our Illuminating Lightly Tinted or Illuminating Non-Tinted SPF).
Face Five Tip: Sun protection is a year-round commitment for healthy, clear skin.
6. Winter May Reveal the Root Cause
At Face Five, we believe every acne journey is unique. Winter can reveal underlying imbalances like hormonal changes, food sensitivities, or gut issues that need to be addressed to truly clear the skin.
What to do:
- Keep a food and skin journal to identify possible patterns.
- Consider working with an acne specialist who looks at the whole body, not just the surface.
- Stress is a huge acne trigger, too. Make sure to take some time to relax and breathe.
Final Thoughts
Winter doesn’t have to mean more breakouts. With the right care, support, and a focus on the root causes, not just the symptoms, your skin can thrive all season long.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and unsure where to begin, you’re not alone. At Face Five Acne Clinic, we’re here to guide you with a personalized, holistic approach that heals from the inside out, without harmful medications.
🌿 Ready to help your teen uncover their root cause of acne?
Book a free consultation at Face Five Acne Clinic today and start your journey toward clear, confident skin, naturally.
Yuki Stauffer, is a licensed Colorado Esthetician, Functional Nutrition Coach, Certified Acne Specialist, Preventive Health Instructor, and Medical Interpreter. Her Acne Solution Program offers personalized skincare, diet, and lifestyle guidance to empower clients in overcoming acne.
With expertise in skincare and a dedication to helping others, Yuki provides customized consultations and Face Five Skincare products, both in-office and online.