When we think of acne, we most often associate it with oily skin. And it’s true - excess oil production is a common contributor to breakouts. But what about those with dry skin? While less common, acne can still affect people with dry skin - but the treatment may require a different approach.
Why Does Acne Occur in Dry Skin?
Acne can be caused due to a number of reasons. One of the most common is excess oil production, which leads to clogged pores and congestion. With dry skin, it is the opposite. The breakouts are most likely forming due to a lack of oil production. Our skin actually needs to produce a healthy amount of oil to keep it balanced. Lack of moisture can weaken the skin barrier, making it more susceptible to inflammation and breakouts.
The Problem with Traditional Acne Treatments and Dry Skin
Most acne products you will find on the market are formulated for those with oily skin. They contain ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and astringents, which can be effective for treating acne but also strip away excess oil. These types of ingredients are great for oily skin, but are generally too harsh for those with already dry skin and can lead to further dryness, flakiness, and irritation. This creates a frustrating cycle where skin becomes even drier, causing more irritation and potentially worsening breakouts.
How to Treat Acne Without Stripping Your Skin
If you have dry skin and acne, your skincare routine should focus on a delicate balance - treating breakouts while maintaining moisture. Here’s how:
1. Use Gentle, Hydrating Cleansers
You know that tight, dry feeling you get after using certain foaming cleansers? These aren’t the cleansers you want to be using on dry skin. Instead, look for a gentle, low-lathering cleanser that contains hydrating and soothing ingredients. If you typically cleanse both morning and night, try switching to just the evening to avoid over-stripping your skin.
2. Incorporate Moisture-Rich Ingredients
Don’t be afraid of oils! It’s tempting to avoid them when most acne products are labelled as “oil free” - but remember - these products were made with oily, not dry skin in mind. Oils can help restore much needed moisture to dry skin. Also look for products with hydrating ingredients like glycerin.
3. Try Non-Traditional Acne-Fighting Ingredients
If you feel like you’ve tried all of the salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide products you can find and still aren’t seeing the results, you may want to try a different approach. Our bi-phase serum, The Solution, contains ingredients like niacinamide, willow bark, and black cumin, which can all help to improve the appearance of breakouts and inflammation, without the dryness or irritation.
If you’ve been struggling to find products to treat your acne and dry skin, it might be time to rethink your approach. With the right balance, you can achieve clearer, healthier skin without the irritation. The Solution was created with dry, acne-prone skin in mind. Shop here.