Seasonal Acne
If you've ever suffered from acne, you might be aware that certain seasons can affect its degree of severity. There's been plenty of studies on this, but the jury's out. Some conditions are worse in Winter, and some in Summer. But if you're going through a bit of a Winter jam right now, let's check out why it might be happening, and furthermore how to address it!
Your face is one of the first places to show signs of imbalance in the body, which can't be ignored (e.g. diet, stress, hormones) but often Winter acne is purely and solely environmental. This is where our sunny friend Vitamin D comes in. Vitamin D is known to reduce inflammation in your skin and act as an antioxidant. All you need is around 10-20 minutes of direct sunlight a day in the early morning or evening, without sunscreen. But don't go spending hours in the sun like Cameron Diaz's mum in There's Something About Mary! Too much sun tan can actually block the amount of Vitamin D absorbed.
Vitamin D can also be found in foods such as fatty fish, cheese, egg yolks, mushrooms and soy milk. And of course you can always take a vitamin supplement too. But Osteoporosis Australia says sun exposure is the most effective way to boost it. They also note that over 30% of adults in this country have some level of Vitamin D deficiency - such a large number for such a sunny country!
So what else can cause exascerbated acne in the cooler months?
Nutrition: comfort foods ring a bell? These will only contribute to clogged pores and sluggish digestion, that can easily lead to zits.
SAD: Seasonal Affective Disorder is real, and happens when people start to feel down - usually when it's cold and grey. Take steps to stay positive and energised.
Stress: certainly an all-year-round issue, this little devil creates the hormone Cortisol which compromises your immune system, which can present as acne too.
Dr JW truly is passionate about protecting your skin - after all, our Anti-Wrinkle and Depigmenting creams were created with love for the founder's mother. But with everyone's skin having its unique qualities, we want to make sure you're all looked after...
So is that an exciting new product I hear? Well you'll have to wait dear beauties, but in the meantime, take time to get outdoors and bask in those golden rays - the rewards are plentiful.
Stay beautiful,
- SJ x
Sarah is a qualified journalist and beauty therapist who lives and breathes wellness, and adores Dr JW's philosophy.