Dry skin can lead to increased flaking of the epidermis, which in turn can clog pores and cause new blackheads. What’s more, a weakened hydrolipid barrier allows harmful substances or microorganisms to penetrate the epidermis, which increases the risk of infection and worsening blackheads. In such conditions, post-acne discoloration can also occur more easily.
One of the main reasons why acne skin becomes dry is dermatological treatment. Many patients use treatments based on ingredients such as retinoids, acids, e.g., AHA/BHA, or benzoyl peroxide. These substances are effective in fighting acne, but at the same time, they can lead to severe skin dryness because they interfere with its natural hydrolipid barrier. In such a case, the care of dry skin with blackheads should look completely different than oily skin with imperfections. A moisturizing cream for acne skin should then be the basis. Acne skin is often also dried out by extremely aggressive skin cleansing products. Paradoxically, dry skin often begins to produce even more sebum, which can exacerbate the symptoms of acne.
Dry acne skin can also be caused by environmental factors, such as cold air, low humidity, frequent stay in air-conditioned rooms, or excessive sunbathing. All of this can weaken the skin’s natural protective barrier, leading to its dehydration and, as a consequence, acne exacerbation. Then moisturizing skin with blackheads becomes crucial. Sometimes an unhealthy lifestyle can also contribute to skin dryness. These include, for example: an not proper diet, insufficient hydration, lack of regenerative sleep, smoking cigarettes, or drinking a lot of alcohol. These are not the main factors of dry acne-prone skin, but they can contribute.
