Can Holiday Binging Affect Your Acne Condition?
Why the Holidays Seem to Usher in Acne Outbreaks
It seems that many of us experience acne outbreaks at the worst possible moments - and that includes the holiday season. When everyone's cameras are out and rearing to go, our blemishes race to the forefront in all their infamous glory. Why does it happen? Is it a cruel trick of fate? Here's some info to help you understand and avoid acne breakouts this time of year...
Diet Changes
While some "experts" will insist that diet has nothing to do with acne, you and I know that's not really the case. Reactions to certain foods can cause serious acne flare-ups, and if you've been watching what you eat all year and suddenly introduce more than your fair share of sugar, fat and chocolate, your skin may pay the consequences.
We all know that the holidays are a time to indulge. Just make sure you do it in moderation. If you see a box of Godiva truffles, take just one. It's less likely to cause an acne outbreak than if you downed the whole entire box.
Sweat and Oil
As gross as it sounds, sweat and oil do play a role in acne breakouts. When you're in a hot crowded room filled with family and friends, it's bound create an environment for clogged pores.
You really can't expect to wash your face midway through each social event you attend. Instead, when you go to holiday parties, bring along oil strips. These handy little strips soak up excess oil in a flash and they're relatively inexpensive.
And remember, if you do experience an outbreak right before it's time for holiday pictures, some acne-friendly concealer and an anti-inflammatory mask can work wonders in a pinch.