How to Take Care of Acne During the Winter

Changes in season (especially fast changes) can exasperate skin problems, namely acne. In the winter, cold temperatures can be a major cause of breakouts and prompt visits to Pasadena acne dermatologist Dr. Mary Garman of Southeast Dermatology. Learn how to prevent or take care of your acne problems during the winter so that when warmer weather comes you'll have a fresh, healthy face to present to the world.

What Causes Acne?
Acne is a common skin condition that causes blemishes to appear throughout the surface of the skin—namely the face. It is most common in adolescents and teens. Acne shows its symptoms in three ways: as whiteheads, blackheads and red pustules that grow in various places on the skin. It happens when the sebaceous glands produce too much oil, which mixes with bacteria. The combination of bacteria and oil causes those blemishes to become irritated and raise up from the surface.

How Does Winter Weather Affect the Skin?
With winter weather comes cooler temperatures. Pasadena acne dermatologist Dr. Mary Garman often sees patients who have acne flare ups during this season. The colder weather, accompanied by dry air, can activate the sebaceous glands and cause them to produce more oil, which leads to acne breakouts.

Acne Care During the Winter
The best way to avoid acne problems in the winter weather is to keep your face continually moisturized. When your skin sees that you have already plenty of moisture, it won’t try to produce as much oil. If you have frequent problems with acne, make sure you are using a moisturizer that’s prescribed by your dermatologist. Also, keep your face clean with a gentle acne cleanser to reduce the chance that the bacteria that aggravates acne will thrive on your skin.

Get Acne Help from Dr. Garman
If you have a severe problem with acne that isn't responding to over the counter solutions, call Pasadena acne dermatologist Dr. Mary Garman's office to request an appointment at 281-991-5944 or visit http://www.southeastdermatologyonline.com for more information. Recommended treatments may include oral and topical antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide and vitamin A therapy. She may also be able to remove some blemishes, like whiteheads and blackheads.