11-07-2025
Tackle acne this winter with these expert-approved skincare hacks
Dry winter air can cause overproduction of oil in the skin, leading to breakouts.
Common skincare mistakes is over-cleansing and not moisturising enough.
Attend to winter acne by knowing your skin type.
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For many, acne doesn't stick to any particular season.
Winter's cold and chilly air can have a major effect on skin. Whether you have oily, normal, dry or combination skin, breakouts can cause discomfort and can leave you feeling sensitive and insecure.
Eucerin dermatologist Dr Mamello Ntsele gives some insight into what causes acne breakouts in winter and how to control it.
How are we more prone to acne flare-ups in winter?
Acne can behave quite differently in winter because the skin is more prone to drying out. When the skin loses moisture, this can prompt the body to create more oil or sebum to compensate, which can cause clogged pores and, thus, breakouts.
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But it's not just the dry winter air that causes breakouts, physical health plays a role too.
Dr Mamello says, 'Dietary shifts in winter, when people tend to eat more comfort foods, can also contribute to breakouts as high-glycaemic foods are linked to more severe acne.'
Common winter skincare mistakes
Summer skincare routines won't cut it during the harsher, colder months. According to Dr Mamello, common skincare mistakes include over-cleansing, which strips the skin of its natural oils, using gel or foaming cleansers during dry seasons and not moisturising enough.
In winter, it's especially important to switch to richer creams with barrier-protecting and hydrating ingredients like ceramides, glycerine and hyaluronic acid. Another frequent oversight is skipping sunscreen, driven by the false belief that UV protection isn't necessary in colder months.
Know your skin type
Oily skin can break out more during the winter months because of dryer air. Combination skin types may also struggle, especially in the T-zone area - which is the forehead, nose and chin.
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Dr Mamello says, 'It's crucial to be aware of your skin requirements. So many factors like age, environment and routine play into the quality of your skin during wintertime. For example, teens generally have oilier skin and lightweight products are usually necessary even in winter.
'Men may also have acne flare-ups thanks to shaving and that may need to be taken into consideration. Hormonal acne can occur in young and perimenopausal women, and they may need hormonal therapy to get flare-ups under control.
'It's not about making your skin adapt, it's about adapting to your skin. Be conscious of your skin needs every day of the year.'
How to prioritise skincare and work with your skin
Maintaining a consistent beauty regimen is key to finding that winter glow. Dr Mamello points out the essential product application steps for effective skincare:
Step 1: Hydrating cleanser
Step 2: Hydrating serum
Step 3: Hydrating moisturiser
Step 4: Non-comedogenic moisturising sunscreen
Dr Mamello also recommends a gentle exfoliant.
'Exfoliation can be a great way to get rid of dead skin cells and prevent pores from getting clogged. However, it's important that this is done in a gentle and safe way.
'Exfoliation can be done once or twice a week depending on skin tolerance and should always be followed by the application of moisturisers,' she shares.
