•• DermaDoctor
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There are essentially three types of skin: dry skin, oily skin, and normal skin. Each of these skin types is susceptible to acne breakouts under the right set of circumstances. Although oily skin is typically associated with acne and is still the most acne prone skin type, there is the possibility that under the right circumstances almost anyone can have an acne outbreak. Dry skin is more prone to an acne outbreak during the winter months, which is why it is important that your daily skin care regiment changes with the seasons.
Moisture is scarce in winter due to a drop in not only temperature but also humidity. Together with the fact that people leave the elements and walk into homes, offices, and buildings that are heated, the skin becomes even drier and more prone to irritation than in summer months. A common occurrence is flaking of the skin around the shoulders, buttocks, mouth, and nose. In some really severe cases, the skin actually cracks which provides an open invitation for bacteria to move right in. This also happens to increase the intensity of an acne outbreak. Diligent application of moisturizers to dry skin will do a lot more than you realize in curtailing and curbing these acne outbreaks.
You should also minimize hot baths and showers during these months as they serve to remove that oh so precious moisture from your skin. The dryer your skin is, the more often you are required to apply and reapply moisturizers. Applying one within five minutes of leaving the shower is always advisable, as this will help lock in the moisture that has been brought to the skins surface.
Summer, requires different skin care methods all together. The skin is able to absorb moisture from the atmosphere in the summer on most days as a result of increased humidity and moisture in the air. Pores are softer and more bacteria and liquids are pulled to the skin's surface. It is advisable to use Retinoids as part of your skin care routine during summer months and avoiding direct sunlight whenever possible. You also want to make sure you are following up with adequate moisturizers and sunscreen.
While retinoids may dry the skin, they will also work to reduce bacteria and oil that is present in the skin. An added benefit is that this drug also works well in the reduction of wrinkles (if you're beginning to worry about those). There are rumors that have neither been proven or disproven at this point that people with typically dry skin are more prone to acne scarring but it is a fact that allowing the blemishes to heal on their own without popping or mashing them is a great way to prevent some scars from happening.
The two common types of acne scarring are ice-pick scars that are deep, jagged, holes in the surface of the skn and the other is a pigmented scar. This scar will later become a small lighter toned scar that is raised (on the surface of the skin). If you find that you have either of these and are bothered by them, it is recommended that you contact your dermatologist in order to discuss your options.