5 Tips for Treating Acne Issues During the Winter Months

Acne can be a frustrating skin condition to deal with, especially in the winter when the dry, cold air can exacerbate it. This is especially the case in New York City where temperatures can often drop into the single digits and the wind can irritate your skin further. According to Dr. Alan Kling, the Best Dermatologist Upper East Side patients trust for their skincare issues, here are a few important tips that can help treat and prevent acne during the harsh winter months in NYC.

Moisturize Regularly

During the winter, one of the worst things that happens to our skin is that it loses vital moisture and doesn’t get access to the hydration it needs. According to Dr. Kling, the best dermatologist Upper West Side patients trust for their skincare issues, keeping your skin moisturized is important for maintaining its barrier function and preventing dryness. Choose a moisturizer that is oil-free and non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog your pores. Finding the right moisturizer for you can be difficult because everyone’s skin is different, so it can help to consult with your dermatologist or to try out different products and see which one works best for you.

Use a Humidifier

Living in New York City, the dry winter air can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to increased oil production and clogged pores. Using a humidifier can help add moisture back into the air and keep your skin hydrated. This added humidity during a time where there isn’t much humidity out there in the streets can make a huge difference for your skin, and give it the freshness, and soft, supple texture it deserves.

Avoid Overly Hot Water

While it might feel good to take a hot shower on a cold winter day, it’s important to understand that hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils and make acne worse. According to Dr. Kling, the best dermatologist who treats HPV NYC has to offer, it may be better to use lukewarm water instead, and try to limit your shower time to no more than 10-15 minutes.

Exfoliate Gently

Exfoliating can help remove dead skin cells that can clog pores and contribute to acne. However, it’s important to be gentle and not over-exfoliate, as this can irritate your skin and make acne worse. As a skin doctor who treats HPV Midtown dermatologist Dr. Kling often advises patients as to the benefits of proper exfoliation. It’s important to look for a product with alpha-hydroxy acids or beta-hydroxy acids, which can help exfoliate your skin without being too harsh.

Cleanse Your Face

One of the biggest mistakes patients make, that might seem obvious when you are suffering from acne issues, is that you aren’t washing your face enough! It’s important to cleanse your skin properly to remove dirt, oil, and makeup that can clog pores and contribute to acne. Use a gentle, oil-free cleanser twice a day to keep your skin clean and healthy.

By following these tips you can help keep your acne under control during the winter months and keep your skin looking and feeling its best. For more information on skincare and acne treatment help, be sure to contact Dr. Alan Kling today.