As if the runny nose, head congestion, sore throat, and body aches weren't enough, you might also find that your face starts breaking out when you come down with a cold – something we are familiar with especially during flu and cold season.
If you tend to get zits and pimples when you get sick, this time of year can be especially troublesome. Here is some information to help you understand this unfortunate occurrence and tricks to get you through the next time you are feeling under the weather.
Why now?
Even if you never get zits, you might see a few rearing their ugly heads if you are sick. Technically, acne is a disease that affects the skin's oil glands, according to the National Institutes of Health. When pores are clogged with oil and bacteria, it constitutes a miniature infection. As with any disease and infection, the cure comes by way of the immune system.
If your immune system is busy fighting off another bug in your body, like a cold or flu virus, it might be slacking in the acne-battling department, causing the breakouts to flare up. Additionally, if you are sick in bed and not functioning as you normally do, you might be skipping washing your face or otherwise disrupting your skincare regimen.
What can I do?
Of course, keeping up with your normal cleansing routine is critical to control breakouts during a cold or other illness. If you use a gentle cleansing balm or resurfacing facial wash, to keep your skin clear normally, make sure, make sure you continue washing and treating your skin as usual.
However, you might also want to use a special acne-fighting mask to give your acne defense a boost. Try removing impurities deep in the skin by exfoliating using a gentle exfoliating mask such as the ELEMIS Papaya Enzyme Peel, which uses natural fruit enzymes of Papaya and calming Pineapple to smooth and clarify your skin – allowing it to breathe. Another option is the radiance-boosting ELEMIS Dynamic Resurfacing Peel & Reset - a complexion-clarifying duo that not only gently peels away dull skin but also replenishes it with hydration.
You will also want to use products that control oil and rebalance the skin such as the SOS Emergency Cream, which is specifically relief for stressed skin, hormonal skin, or irritated skin. Amino Acids, Lavender Absolute, Willow, Centella Asiatica, and Myrrh – formulated in the healing cream – work to soothe the skin and rebalance inflamed skin. Make sure to pair these with your preferred acne spot treatment.
Is my skin telling me something about my health?
Getting a cold might be an indicator that you are going to break out, but other times, your pimples can tell you what's going on in your body. According to Women's Health Magazine, chin acne can indicate a hormonal imbalance and redness, or blotchiness can indicate stress, a digestive disorder, or lupus. If you are concerned about your acne, speak with your dermatologist.
