You may equate pesky pimples, congested pores and blemishes with scorching summer days, but did you know that winter comes with its very own beast of breakouts to deal with?
According to dermatologist Dendy Engelman, dryness can actually cause blemishes. That is why the middle of winter is usually the worst time for many when it comes to maintaining a balanced complexion.
"When the skin is void of oils, moisture leaks out of the skin and causes dryness," Engelman told Allure. "When it's cold, there is less moisture in the environment; when the skin's natural moisture barrier is compromised, it is less able to fight bacteria [like P.acnes] and infection."
Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best products to keep blemishes at bay this winter. Make sure to click on the brand name to learn more and to download hi-res imagery.
A’kin Australian Tea Tree Oil Detoxifying Face Sheet Mask is a sheet mask that is uniquely made with biodegradable, lightweight and soft 100% eucalyptus fibre. The plant-based mask is infused with a detoxifying, clarifying and refreshing blend of Australian tea tree oil and organic green tea that work together to help keep skin clear and blemish free, protect the skin against environmental toxins, control excess oil production and provide a clarifying boost to the complexion.
BOOST LAB Vitamin B3 Blemish Rescue Serum is an oil-free facial serum that works to deliver an intensive Vitamin B3 concentrate to help reduce skin blemishes, acne, enlarged pores, redness and oily skin. It also forms a breathable, transparent shield to protect our skin from nasties.
Medik8 Blemish SOS™ is a rapid action treatment gel that effectively clears blemishes while calming inflamed skin. Infused with maximum strength salicylic acid and soothing niacinamide, the dual-action formula clears pores and calms inflammation to promote a flawless, healthy complexion.
Absolute Essential Blemish Free is a gentle, restorative blend ideal for adolescent or menstrual skin due to its inherent astringent and antiseptic properties. Using a totally natural, pure botanical formulation that effectively nurtures and nourishes healthy skin, you can deep cleanse your pores without damaging or drying delicate facial tissue.
Minenssey Purifying Blemish Clearing Gel quickly combats spots and blemishes whilst preventing post-acne scarring. Acne-fighting botanical complex GranActive ACNE instantly addresses individual blemishes, drying them out without irritation.
tbh Skincare acne hack cream is a topical treatment for acne. XBIO™ technology combines the ingredients in a way that allows them to destroy the extracellular matrix that protects acne causing bacteria. This in turn exposes the individual bacteria, and makes them susceptible to attack.
BIODERMA Sébium Anti-blemish Deep Cleansing Gel Moussant Actif Cleansing Gel is an anti-blemish cleanser that respects acne-prone skin while deep cleansing and treating blemishes. Sébium Gel Moussant Actif effectively deep cleanses the skin without stripping the barrier function.
Sukin Naturals Blemish Control Clearing Facial Wash is a lightweight gel cleanser that combines eucalyptus, tea teee and pomegranate to purify skin while removing dirt, makeup and other environmental impurities. Quince, willowherb and coconut keep skin hydrated and the complexion clear.
SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense Serum is a potent oil-free treatment designed to control acne and correct signs of ageing. It inhibits sebum production, minimises current blemishes, and helps reduce post-acne hyperpigmentation.
Kiehl’s Acne Blemish Control Daily Skin-Clearing Treatment is formulated with a powerful blend of ingredients known to minimise the appearance of acne and blemishes, including Dioic, Salicyclic and Lipo Hydroxy Acids. It is clinically proven to clear acne blemishes and allow skin healing while reducing the appearance of post-acne marks.
