Winter acne – is it a real thing? 🌨

Nothing much seems to bloom and grow in winter, but pimples may just be the exception. During the colder months when your skin gets progressively dry, your body will respond by producing more Sebum. Sebum is an oil like substance which is a key factor in acne. Sebum helps keep our skin supple and moist. However, too much sebum will cause the skin cells to stick together which in turn clogs pores. For those already struggling with acne, inflammation can also be a concern during winter. This is because dry, cold air exposure is one of the many driving forces which can seriously harm the skin’s barrier and in turn promote inflammation. 

TIPS ON COMBATTING WINTER ACNE:

Hydrate💦:

A very important tip which many of us tend to forget with our busy schedules and fast-paced lives is to stay hydrated. Proper hydration aids in preventing excess sebum and oil secretion which essentially means fewer clogged pores and breakouts! 🥳

Clean pillowcases:

During the colder months, our hair and skin becomes drier which in turn tends to secrete oil on your pillowcases. Remember to change your pillowcases every 2 days which will help keep your skin crystal clear 😴.

Exfoliate:

There is no harm in exfoliating during the colder months. In fact it should be encouraged even more during these months. Exfoliation helps prevent dead skin formation which can clog your pores and result in many breakouts. PS: too much scrubbing can however make your skin more dry and lead to more breakouts so ensure that you are only exfoliating about 2-3 time a week. 

Moisturise:

Remember to moisturise DAILY! If you tend to have more oily skin, opt for an oil-free moisturiser. The COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturising Lotion is perfect and will be restocked very soon! 

(Available here for R350)

Cleaning ritual:

Opt for lukewarm water as opposed to hot water when cleansing your face. Hot water can strip your skin of many essential oils which in turn dries it out. 

Below are our top 5 essential products which we think are amazing at combatting and preventing winter acne.

LUXE LOFT’S TOP 5 WINTER ACNE ESSENTIALS

1. Benton Goodbye Redness Centella Spot Cream:

Say goodbye to rough and red skin or spots as this spot cream is perfect for stressed out skin. Formulated with centella, tea-tree and calamine, this product is powerful at clearing the skin’s impurities. As a result leaving the skin healthy and clear. We recommend using this product as your final skincare step by applying a desirable amount to the skin and spreading evenly until fully absorbed. As this product contains calamine which is calming, this product would also be suited for sensitive skin. 

(Available here for R275)

2. Mizon Moisture Pore Fresh Peeling Toner Pad:

Perfect for a good exfoliation, these toner pads are enriched with a blend of AHA, BHA and PHA to exfoliate dead skin cells and wipe away excess makeup, sebum and dirt. The toner pads contain 3 types of hyaluronic acid which aid in hydration which ensures that the skin does not dry out. After cleansing, Take a pad and gently wipe your face while avoiding the eye and lip area. 

(Available here for R320)

3. SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Cream:

This magical non-greasy cream is packed with acne-fighting ingredients such as AHA, BHA and PHA. More so the cream also contains 10,000ppm of tea tree extract which has amazing anti-inflammation and antibacterial properties. Not to mention the cream also has 4-Cica Care and Centella Asiatica which promotes the skin’s resilience, radiance and strength. We recommend gently applying the cream using your fingertips.

(Available here for R400)

4. Mizon No.1 Moist King’s Berry Cleansing Oil:

Powered by chokeberries and loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, this magical cleansing oil works to dissolve traces of dirt, excess makeup and impurities while still hydrating the skin. We recommend dispensing a pump of the cleansing oil onto dry, clean hands and then massaging into face and neck. Focus on T-zone and other areas of concern and finish by cleansing away lip and eye makeup residue. Once you add water you will notice the oil emulsify and turn into a milky formula. Wash product off and follow with a water-based cleanser to remove any residual product.

(Available here for R580) 

5. COSRX Low ph PHA Barrier Mist:

Infused with coconut fruit extract and gluconolactone, this gentle mist works to soften, hydrate and regulate the skin’s pH levels for a more smoother appearance. The mist also works as a shield which keeps other skincare formulas from evaporating from the skin. Spray onto the face and gently tap in. It can also be used throughout the day to freshen up. 

(Available here for R480)

We have an extensive range of products that have been carefully curated for all your skincare and beauty needs. Shop our wide array of products here on our website, on Take A Lot and in store at We Are Egg Cavendish!

Our products cater to whatever skin concern you may have but if you can’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to contact us at info@luxeloft.co.za if you would like any guidance in curating and customising your skincare routine! 

All our products have been tested by us to ensure that only the best is available for you to try. Whether you are a skincare newbie or a self proclaimed skincare junkie, we are here to guide and assist you on this journey to glowing skin. 

Salma Cassimjee