How To Tackle Breakouts As The Seasons Change

As summer draws to a close and we head into cooler months, our skincare routines often need a little adjustment.

Lower temperatures and reduced humidity can leave skin feeling drier and more irritated, while indoor heating can further strip moisture from the skin. For those prone to breakouts, maintaining that balance is key, as overly dry skin can actually encourage the production of more oil, potentially leading to clogged pores.

What To Avoid If You’re Prone to Breakouts

When a breakout appears, it can be tempting to throw every acne-fighting product in your bathroom at it. However, over-washing, harsh scrubs and constantly switching between different acne treatments can irritate the skin barrier, potentially leading to even more breakouts.

Dermatologists recommend washing your face gently twice a day and avoiding anything that leaves your skin feeling tight, sore or excessively dry.

It’s also worth looking at what you’re putting on your skin. Heavy, oily makeup, skincare and even hair products can contribute to clogged pores, particularly around the forehead and hairline.

When shopping for new products, look out for labels such as “non-comedogenic”, “oil-free” or “won’t clog pores”. And, however tempting it might be, resist picking or squeezing spots – doing so can increase inflammation and the risk of scarring and dark marks.

 

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While there’s no single “acne diet” that everyone needs to follow, some research suggests that foods with a high glycaemic index – such as sugary drinks, sweets, white bread and other refined carbohydrates – may be associated with acne.

That doesn’t mean you need to completely cut out your favourite foods, but if you’re noticing regular breakouts, it could be worth paying attention to whether certain foods seem to coincide with flare-ups.

Your lifestyle can play a part too. Stress doesn’t necessarily cause acne, but it can worsen existing breakouts, while getting too little sleep has also been linked with acne. And while summer might be over, SPF shouldn’t be forgotten. Acne-prone skin still needs daily sun protection, and dermatologists recommend opting for a non-comedogenic SPF 30 or higher.

5 Products to Add to Your Routine

The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Cleanser 

A good place to start is with your cleanser. This lightly foaming formula contains 2% salicylic acid to help unclog pores, alongside zinc to help control excess oil.

The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Cleanser – €14.99

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% 

For those dealing with excess oil and congestion, The Ordinary’s bestselling serum combines 10% niacinamide with zinc PCA. The lightweight formula is designed to help regulate oil and reduce the appearance of blemishes and visible pores.

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% – €10.80

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner

For a toner that targets congestion, Glow Recipe’s Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner combines gentle PHA with BHA to exfoliate dead skin cells and help clear clogged pores. The formula also contains watermelon extract and hyaluronic acid to help hydrate and soothe the skin.

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner – €16.10

CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser

Another cleanser worth considering is CeraVe’s Blemish Control formula, which combines 2% salicylic acid and niacinamide with three essential ceramides. It is designed to tackle blemishes and excess oil while helping to maintain the skin’s moisture barrier.

LookFantastic – CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser – €16.68

Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

For a more premium addition, Paula’s Choice’s bestselling BHA exfoliant uses salicylic acid to help clear pores, reduce the appearance of breakouts and smooth the skin. If you’re new to acids, introduce it gradually rather than using it alongside several other exfoliating products.

The key to clearer skin this autumn isn’t necessarily adding more products – it’s finding a simple routine that keeps pores clear without compromising your skin barrier.

Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant – €14 

As we head into autumn, keeping breakouts at bay is all about finding the right balance between treating congestion and protecting your skin barrier.

With a simple routine and the right products, clearer, healthier-looking skin could be just a few skincare swaps away.

Words by Robyn Jane Lawlor