What blooms most often in winter? This question is part of an old dermatologist joke. The answer: pimples. Unfair, but unfortunately very true. The cold season is the season for spots – so-called winter acne. Along with rosacea and eczema, it's the most common unsightly side effect of low temperatures. Anyone who thinks that age protects against this problem is mistaken. Acne in its frosty form has many faces – from young to old. The 48grams blog explains its causes, treatment, and also debunks the myths surrounding it in this article. Our wish is that we all have fewer skin problems!
From acne vulgaris to acne tarda
To explain winter acne, let's first look at some basic facts about why we get pimples in the first place. Between 80 and 95 (!) percent of all teenagers suffer from it. The severity varies. Some lucky ones are only bothered by a multitude of blackheads, but the majority (sorry, that always sounds gross) have to deal with red pustules filled with pus. Doctors refer to this as "acne vulgaris." Those who are really unlucky live with so-called "acne conglobata": The tissue is partially covered by a crust or shows abscesses and pronounced nodules. Urgent advice: A dermatologist must be consulted here – otherwise, there is a risk of scarring. And that never looks good. The third form is "acne tarda," or late-onset acne. This primarily affects men over 50. The reason: our lifestyle. Too much stress, poor diet, too little exercise.
More and more cases of winter acne
The increase in cases is, incidentally, scientifically proven. A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology revealed an eleven percent rise in the incidence of moderate to severe acne during the colder months. Andrea Schlöbe of the Society for Dermopharmacy in Cologne sums it up perfectly: "Skin diseases often worsen in winter."
Whey proteins from trigger
But why does our skin always go haywire? Why do we stand in front of the mirror, desperately frustrated by the red, shiny breakouts? Even after 100 years of research, science still can't provide a definitive answer. There are many theories – and, of course, myths. Too much chocolate can trigger it. At least, that's what many parents tell their children. Well… there seems to be a grain of truth to it. In laboratories, a link between dairy products and acne has been identified. Whey proteins lead to increased insulin production, which in turn is said to initiate the formation of pimples. Yes, that's still rather vague. Parental advice would therefore have to include banning not only chocolate but also all dairy products.
&Acne vs. Medication & Hormones
The following triggers are definitely established: hormonal changes in the body. This naturally affects mainly young people during their growth phase. But the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline can also be responsible. Medications and improper skincare (!) are also contributing factors.
When sebaceous glands become blocked
Before we get to winter acne, let's briefly explain how pimples develop: Our skin (thankfully) has many glands that secrete an oil called sebum onto the surface of the tissue. This creates a useful film, a protective layer against external influences. However, when the pores become clogged, bacteria accumulate in the sebum; the result is a minor inflammation, essentially the body's defense mechanism. White blood cells take over, fighting the bacteria. The result is visible as a pustule on the skin's surface.Et voilà: the pimple.
Winter reduces skin protection.
What can heal in summer thanks to warm temperatures and especially the sun's UV rays (though not necessarily) becomes a real problem in winter. The skin's protective layer is simply thinner, and the change from cold air to heated rooms leads to dehydration. The tissue is at risk of cracking, and flakes form. Now bacteria can penetrate from the outside and multiply unhindered. But there's also a second reason: During the frost season, sebum production is also in full swing. This significantly increases the risk of the glands becoming clogged and the "normal" formation of pimples, as described above, beginning. It's frustrating that the skin's protective mechanisms can also trigger winter acne.
Expression is (always) forbidden
Now that we know the causes and effects of chilblains… we naturally need to talk about the third A – the remedy. First things first: Squeezing the inflamed bumps is never a good idea. Not in summer, and certainly not in winter. The already damaged skin will be torn open and subsequently scarred. Before that, bacteria can enter even more easily through the wound. The infection will inevitably worsen. So… please, please… keep your fingers away from your face. As hard as that may be.
Using mastic and edelweiss to fight acne
Skincare is crucial in winter. It's about finding the right balance. Particularly dry skin needs rich creams. But overdoing it will clog your pores. The consequence: exactly, see above. Dermatologists advise... Products with a high shea butter content. When it comes to cleansing your skin, you should avoid anything that could lead to further dryness. Harsh scrubs are a no-go during the colder months. We at 48grams recommend mild fruit acid peels. And a subsequent treatment with oil-free creams. Or one serum, Hyaluronic acid allows even more moisture to penetrate the skin. If winter acne is already showing its – pardon the expression – ugly side, then often the only solution is a visit to the dermatologist. Supportive measures include: Creams containing mastic oil or edelweiss extract. Both ingredients promote the (re)healing of the skin.
Nutrition and fluids
And of course, there are general tips for dealing with those sprouting pimples. No, we don't mean eating less chocolate. That can make you happy too, at least when enjoyed in moderation. But generally speaking, a slight change in diet can work wonders. The formula is: less sugar, less fat, and more vitamins and fiber. Also, drinking plenty of water helps a lot. Hydrating your body from the inside out (eight glasses a day are recommended) supports healthy skin.
Finally – as already mentioned: What works wonders against acne in the summer also works in winter: UV light triggers healing processes. We at the 48grams blog even take short walks during our lunch break in the colder months to recharge our skin. Even when it's cold and often overcast outside, the power of the sun and plenty of oxygen ensure a better complexion. And that, in turn, makes us feel better overall.
