Worried that winter season will cause a breakout of big, red pimples on your face? You’re not alone. A study published in in the Journal of American Academy of Dermatology in 2015, found that among acne patients in New England, the percentage who reported clear complexion was highest in summer and spring, as opposed to winter, when there was an 11% rise in those who experience acne breakouts.

One common reason for this is said to be sebum, an oil that the skin produces in order to keep it moist. The dryer the skin (which tends to happen more frequently in winters), the more sebum is produced. As a result of this excess sebum production, the cells in one’s skin tend to stick together, leading to clogged pores and breakouts.

Also Read| Cool sweatshirt trends to kick start your winter wardrobe

There are a few tips, however, that one can keep in mind during this season to prevent breakouts, and keep one’s skin looking clear and fresh. 

1. Wash your face twice a day and after sweating. Perspiration tends to make acne worse, so wash your skin as soon as possible.

2. Apply a gentle, alcohol-free cleaner. Red, irritated and dry skin makes acne worse.

3. Do not pick, pop or squeeze your pimples as your skin will take longer to clear. Let your skin heal naturally.

4. Stay hydrated. Consuming 6-8 glasses of water a day help your skin glow. 

5. Wipe off all kinds of make-up from your face before going to bed.

6. Consume a healthy diet, free of fatty, processed and packaged food. Reducing dairy intake can also help some people reduce acne.