Changing seasons brings unpredictable weather, fluctuating humidity levels and unpredictable temperatures, which can be a nightmare for your skin. Fortunately, your skin doesn’t have to suffer the consequences. I'm Dr. Anna Chacon, The Pill Club's Dermatology Medical Advisor and board-certified dermatologist, and I'm here to share best practices for maintaining a healthy complexion, no matter what season it is.
💧 Baseline, wash your face: Use a face wash at least once or twice a day. If you don’t wash your face, debris accumulates, which may clog pores and lead to an oily appearance. It's also important to remove your make-up and any other pollutants or old skincare (like your face moisturizer from earlier in the day). I find the best times to wash your face are typically after waking and right before bedtime before getting into your full skincare routine.
👉 Pro-Tip: It’s important to use a mild cleanser that’s suitable for acne-prone skin that's oil free and non-comedogenic. It doesn't have to be expensive, but it needs to match what your goals are. For instance, if you have oily skin, choosing an oil-free cleanser is paramount. If you have very dry skin, using a gentle and hydrating cleanser, immediately followed by a moisturizer is important. If you have severe acne, you may want to consider a prescription-strength or medicated cleanser.
👊🏽 Choose the right acne fighting ingredients: Salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and even glycolic acid can all be used to counter acne breakouts. I personally also love using sulfur. Of course, these all come in varying strengths, so if you're unsure about which strength your skin can tolerate, it's best to patch-test the area or ask your dermatologist. It's always best to try on a non-sensitive patch of skin prior to applying on your face as the skin is more delicate in this area. Always read the instructions on any skin care treatment, and it never hurts to ask friends and family what they use.
🧴 Moisturize! Opt for a moisturizer that’s oil-free and non-comedogenic. If you have oily skin, it's best to use a light hydrating moisturizer. For those with very dry skin that peels, you'll want to explore a thicker moisturizer like Vaseline or Aquaphor. Drugstore items are often enough to address dry skin—there’s no need to go with something more expensive if that's not in your budget.
💤 Get Good Sleep. It's extremely important to get plenty of rest! I'm guilty of not getting as much sleep as I should. When we experience stress and aren’t getting adequate sleep or rest, it shows up in our skin and hair. Sometimes people exhibit hair loss, while others deal with breakouts. Rest is an essential element to a sustainable skincare routine. The best part? It doesn't cost a thing!
Do you already get your birth control online from Favor (formerly The Pill Club)? Check out our prescription acne treatment program for creams and gels, handpicked by our expert dermatology team for your unique skin goals, and delivered right to your door!