Key Takeaways:

  • Winter Acne Triggers: Winter acne is caused by a combination of dry air, weakened skin barriers, and overproduction of oil, which clog pores and lead to breakouts.
  • Accutane and Winter Challenges: Accutane users face unique difficulties in winter, such as extreme dryness, slower healing, and increased sensitivity, requiring extra care and hydration.
  • Natural and Preventative Care: Effective prevention and treatment include using non-comedogenic moisturizers, cold-pressed oils like jojoba or hemp seed, and gentle skincare routines tailored to winter conditions.
 

Winter can be a tough season for our skin. The combination of cold air, low humidity, and indoor heating often leaves skin feeling dry, irritated, and unbalanced. For some people, these harsh conditions trigger a spike in acne—something we call "winter acne." If you're on Accutane, the challenges of winter skin can feel even more intense, as the treatment already makes your skin more sensitive and prone to dryness.

At Sacred Rituel, we know how important it is to care for your skin, especially during harsh weather conditions. With our expertise in natural and organic skincare, we’ve helped countless people navigate seasonal challenges like winter acne with solutions that nurture and protect their skin.

In this article, we’ll explore how winter conditions lead to acne, the impact on different parts of the body, and why it can be especially difficult for Accutane users. We'll also share tips to prevent winter acne and offer natural remedies to keep your skin calm and clear during the colder months.


What Is Winter Acne And Why Does It Happen?

Winter acne is essentially breakouts triggered or worsened by the unique conditions of the colder months. During winter, the air holds less moisture, and the combination of biting winds and indoor heating can severely dehydrate your skin. While you might think dry skin would mean less acne, it actually creates the perfect environment for breakouts. Here’s why:


Overcompensation Of Oil (Sebum)

When your skin becomes too dry, it goes into panic mode and ramps up its oil production to try to restore moisture. This excess oil, or sebum, can mix with dead skin cells and other impurities, clogging your pores and leading to acne. The problem is even worse in winter because the skin can’t find its balance, creating a constant cycle of dryness followed by oil overproduction.


Skin Barrier Damage

Your skin’s barrier is like a shield that keeps moisture in and harmful stuff out, but cold weather and indoor heating break it down. When this barrier is compromised, bacteria and irritants can enter more easily, triggering inflammation and acne. Damaged skin also struggles to heal itself properly, so breakouts last longer and can feel more severe.


Irritation From Layers And Scarves

In winter, we bundle up with scarves, turtlenecks, and heavy coats, which can trap sweat, oil, and bacteria against the skin. This is particularly common on areas like the jawline, neck, and back, where fabric rubs against the skin and causes irritation. If the skin is already dry and fragile, this extra friction can lead to redness and acne flare-ups.


Stress And Winter Blues

The shorter days and colder weather can lead to seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or simply make life feel a bit more stressful. Increased stress levels cause a spike in cortisol, a hormone that can stimulate your oil glands and worsen breakouts. On top of that, people tend to indulge in comfort foods or skip workouts during winter, which can also indirectly impact skin health.

Winter acne can feel like a losing battle, but having the right skincare can make all the difference. Sacred Rituel's Sacred Serum is designed to restore your skin’s balance by deeply hydrating while supporting your skin's natural barrier—exactly what you need during harsh winter months. Try it today and feel the difference!


Parts Of The Body Most Affected By Winter Acne

While winter acne can appear anywhere, certain parts of the body are more prone to breakouts during the colder months. This is often due to a combination of dryness, irritation from clothing, and environmental factors. Here’s a closer look at the areas most affected:

  • Face: The face is the most common site for winter acne, particularly the cheeks, chin, and around the nose. Dry air and indoor heating can lead to flaking skin, while scarves or masks trap sweat and bacteria, exacerbating breakouts.
  • Lips and Surrounding Area: Accutane users often experience extreme dryness around the lips. This delicate skin can crack, flake, and develop acne-like bumps due to irritation and the buildup of dead skin cells. 
  • Jawline and Neck: Heavy scarves and high-neck clothing can trap moisture and bacteria against the skin, leading to clogged pores and irritation along the jawline and neck.
  • Back and Shoulders: Winter layers, especially sweaters and coats made of non-breathable materials, can create friction and trap sweat. This makes the back and shoulders common areas for winter body acne.
  • Hands and Forearms: While less common, dry skin on the hands and arms caused by harsh winter air can sometimes develop acne-like bumps, especially if lotions or creams clog pores.

These areas are particularly vulnerable in winter, but with the right skincare and preventative measures, you can keep breakouts under control.

 

Face Is The Most Common Site For Winter Acne

 

How Accutane Alters Skin During Winter

Accutane is a powerful acne treatment, but it works by significantly reducing the amount of oil your skin produces. This can be a game changer for acne-prone skin, but during the winter, it comes with unique challenges. With less oil, your skin is already more prone to dryness, and winter conditions only amplify this. The dry air and harsh winds strip away what little moisture your skin has left, leaving it feeling tight, flaky, and irritated.

Another key aspect is that Accutane thins the skin slightly, making it more sensitive to external irritants like cold weather and even the fabrics of winter clothing. This sensitivity can lead to redness, inflammation, and even small cracks in the skin’s surface if it’s not properly cared for. Winter's effect on hydration also impacts the healing process, so any acne or irritation that does pop up may take longer to fade.

If you’re on Accutane, winter skincare requires extra attention. Hydration becomes your best friend, and gentle, non-irritating products are a must to avoid worsening dryness or sensitivity.


Natural Remedies To Treat Winter Acne

Treating winter acne naturally can be a gentle yet effective approach to managing breakouts, especially for those with sensitive or Accutane-affected skin. Cold-pressed oils and plant extracts are excellent options to soothe inflammation, restore moisture, and support skin healing. Here are some of the best choices:


Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil is almost identical in structure to the sebum your skin naturally produces, which helps trick your skin into producing less oil. It’s lightweight and won’t clog pores, making it ideal for acne-prone skin during winter. Additionally, jojoba oil locks in moisture, which is essential for soothing dry, flaky patches caused by harsh winter air.


Hemp Seed Oil

Hemp seed oil is rich in omega fatty acids, which deeply nourish and repair the skin barrier damaged by winter dryness. Its anti-inflammatory properties help calm redness and irritation, making it especially useful for inflamed or cystic acne. Unlike heavier oils, it absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue, so it works well as part of a daily routine.


Calendula Extract

Calendula is renowned for its gentle yet powerful healing properties, making it a great choice for sensitive, dry, or acne-prone skin. It reduces redness and irritation while also speeding up the healing of cracked or irritated skin caused by winter conditions. Calendula also has mild antimicrobial effects, which help keep acne-causing bacteria in check.


Chamomile Extract

Chamomile is nature’s anti-inflammatory powerhouse, perfect for soothing redness and calming stressed-out skin. Its antibacterial properties also help prevent infections in broken skin or active acne spots. Regular use can leave your skin feeling less tight and irritated, especially in cold, dry climates.


Sea Buckthorn Fruit Oil

Sea buckthorn fruit oil is packed with antioxidants like vitamins C and E, which help repair damaged skin and fade acne scars. It also contains omega-7 fatty acids that improve skin elasticity and hydration, making it a perfect remedy for winter’s drying effects. The oil’s bright orange color might seem intense at first, but mixing a drop with your moisturizer ensures your skin gets all the benefits without staining.


Tocotrienol Oil (Vitamin E)

Tocotrienol, a potent form of Vitamin E, deeply hydrates and supports skin recovery, making it a lifesaver for skin that’s both acne-prone and dry. Its strong antioxidant properties neutralize free radicals, which can worsen acne and irritation during winter. Additionally, it promotes skin cell regeneration, helping to fade acne scars and repair damage from cracked or dry patches.


Effective Strategies To Prevent Winter Acne

Preventing winter acne requires a proactive approach to protecting your skin from the harsh conditions of the season. By adjusting your skincare routine and daily habits, you can reduce the likelihood of breakouts and keep your skin healthy and comfortable. Here are some effective strategies:


Moisturize Religiously

During winter, your skin’s natural moisture barrier takes a hit, so a deeply hydrating product can work wonders. Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic options like cold-pressed rosehip oil, jojoba oil, or argan oil, which mimic your skin’s natural lipids while delivering intense hydration. Apply a few drops onto damp skin right after washing your face to seal in moisture.


Avoid Overwashing

While it might feel good to wash your face frequently during the winter, overwashing can strip your skin of natural oils, leaving it overly dry and reactive. Stick to washing twice a day with a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser that won’t disrupt your skin barrier. In the morning, a quick rinse with lukewarm water may even be enough, as full cleansing isn’t always necessary if your skin feels balanced.


Use A Humidifier

Indoor heating systems zap the air of moisture, creating an environment where your skin constantly dries out. A humidifier restores this lost moisture, keeping the air in your home or bedroom more balanced and skin-friendly. Aim for a humidity level of about 40–60% for optimal skin hydration—your nose, throat, and even plants will thank you, too!


Sunscreen Is Still Essential

Don’t let the cold fool you—UV rays are still present, even on cloudy or snowy days, and they can reflect off snow, increasing exposure. For Accutane users especially, winter sun exposure can lead to irritation or even damage, so a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is a must. Apply it every morning, and reapply if you’ll be outside for extended periods, even if it doesn’t feel sunny.


Switch To Gentle Products

Harsh exfoliants and active ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can do more harm than good during the winter, especially if your skin is already dry. Instead, choose calming ingredients that soothe and hydrate without irritation. If you still need exfoliation, try a mild, enzyme-based exfoliator once a week to remove dead skin without overstripping.


Avoid Friction From Clothing

Heavy scarves, hats, or synthetic fabrics can irritate your skin, especially if they trap sweat and bacteria. Opt for breathable, soft materials like cotton or silk that are less likely to cause friction. Wash these items regularly, as buildup from dirt and oils can easily transfer to your skin and trigger breakouts.


Stay Hydrated And Eat Skin-Friendly Foods

Drinking water is essential year-round, but it’s especially important in winter to combat dehydration from cold air and indoor heat. Alongside hydration, focus on eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon or chia seeds) and antioxidants (like berries and spinach) to reduce inflammation and support overall skin health. Zinc-rich foods, such as pumpkin seeds or lentils, can also help regulate oil production and support acne healing.


Spot Treat Sparingly

When breakouts occur, resist the urge to layer on multiple treatments, as this can worsen dryness and irritation. Use targeted spot treatments that reduce inflammation or have natural antibacterial properties. Apply only to affected areas and follow up with a good moisturizer or serum to prevent over-drying the surrounding skin.

 

Spot Treat Winter Acne Sparingly

 

Final Thoughts

Winter acne can feel like a frustrating and unavoidable part of the colder months, but with the right knowledge and care, it’s manageable. Understanding how winter conditions affect your skin—especially if you’re on Accutane—allows you to take proactive steps to protect and heal it. Whether it’s adjusting your skincare routine, investing in a humidifier, or using natural remedies like jojoba oil and calendula extract, small changes can make a big difference.

Remember, your skin is unique, and what works for someone else might not work for you. Be patient and gentle with yourself during this time. If your winter acne persists or becomes difficult to control, don’t hesitate to consult a dermatologist for professional guidance.


Read also:


Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Acne

How can I control my acne in the winter?

Control winter acne by moisturizing regularly, using gentle cleansers, avoiding over-exfoliation, running a humidifier, and wearing soft, breathable fabrics to reduce friction and irritation.


Why does my skin look so bad in winter?

Winter dehydrates your skin, damages its protective barrier, and emphasizes fine lines, dullness, and irritation, making your skin appear less healthy and balanced.


Is acne worse in summer or winter?

This depends on your skin type. Summer acne often arises from sweat, oil, and humidity, while winter acne stems from dryness and barrier damage. Both seasons can trigger breakouts differently.


Is ice or heat better for acne?

Ice is better for acne as it reduces swelling, redness, and inflammation. Heat can worsen acne by increasing blood flow and irritation.


How to get rid of acne permanently?

Acne can be managed long-term with a consistent skincare routine, treatments like retinoids or isotretinoin (Accutane), and addressing underlying factors like hormones, diet, and stress.


What weather causes acne?

Both hot and cold weather can cause acne. Heat and humidity promote sweat and oil production, while cold weather dries out the skin, leading to excess oil and clogged pores.


Why is my skin more oily in the winter?

Your skin compensates for winter dryness by overproducing oil, which can make it appear oilier, especially if your skin barrier is weakened.


What age is acne the worst?

Acne is usually the worst during teenage years (12-18) due to hormonal changes, but adults can also experience severe acne, especially during their 20s and 30s.


Which foods cause acne?

Foods high in sugar, dairy, and processed carbohydrates, along with greasy or fried foods, can exacerbate acne by triggering inflammation and hormonal fluctuations.


Sources:

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  2. Baral, P., Bagul, V., & Gajbhiye, S. (2020). Hemp seed oil for skin care (non-drug cannabis sativa L): A review. World J. Pharm. Res, 9, 2534-2556.
  3. Ferreira, E. B., Vasques, C. I., Jesus, C. A. C., & Reis, P. E. D. (2015). Topical effects of Chamomilla Recutita in skin damage: A literature review. Pharmacologyonline, 3(2015-), 123-130.