Firstly, we must understand the reasoning between the shift in the winter months and the new condition of winter maskne. Dr. Adam Friedman, a professor of dermatology at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences states, “In winter when UV light exposure tends to be low, the resulting bacterial and immune system shifts may make acne breakouts more common. The shock of cold weather can also promote acne.
So, lets break this down. The first thing that stood out to me is when Dr. Friedman talks briefly about the immunity shift.
When the Propionibacterium “P-acne” becomes active, one contributing factor is due to solidified overaccumulation of keratinization that aggravates the follicular wall. This innate immune response activates lymphocytes. Lymphocytes like macrophages, and other B and T cells are summoned to attack and secure the area in question.
So, what in the wintertime may elevate this activity. Well, the most common thing that estheticians and skincare professionals see more is the “Maskne”. Yes, that is a thing.
The occlusive material over the mouth area can trap sweat, moisture, and bacteria. This type of residue becomes a solid within the follicular wall. Thereby creating an overaccumulation of “junk”, basically oil mixed with dead skin cells, like mortar and brick.
When clients have had enough, they generally start with abrasive, stripping, or harsh products to get rid of those nasty blemishes. But as we know this only exacerbates the condition. Clients become stressed, and do not know what to do. So, they choose excoriation, where they will constantly pick to resolve their acne condition.
Estheticians know this does not work. So, what does? Education works every time. The biggest thing I have discovered is to keep their routine simple. It is important to start with balance.
Salicylic Gel Cleanser clarifying solution, not any salicylic cleanser. The balance of a cleanser is the most important product you will ever recommend to clients. The balance of the skin starts with this first step. If there is an imbalance, the skin will be in a defensive state instead of a receptive state. Skin needs balance to receive the next skincare products.
Salicylic Toner eucalyptus oil, toner does not need to consist of alcohol. Toners benefit by providing the second step to balance. Preparing the skin for the next step of correction. It is also important to saturate a dry cotton pad or gauze with the salicylic toner. The pH of this toner is a 5, so it is very good to combat problem skin from the onset of “winter maskne”, but it will not strip or dehydrate the skin. It isolates and targets the concern for a healthier recovery.
Antibac Essentials lysozyme protection + LSS™ delivery is the ultimate in minimizing and reducing acne conditions. Lysozyme is an important enzyme that attaches itself to the bacterial wall. It disintegrates the wall by digestion. This is the most essential formula for troubled skin conditions.
These three simple products are performance-driven for skin immunity balance. Skin immunity is extremely important when correcting and treating all skin concerns. This innate immunity response is a natural response that we are born with to protect us antigens (bad guys) that may want to cause harm to our largest organ, our skin.
Keeping the skin at a natural balance functional state is the best course of action.
