As we round the corner on the holiday season, we’re getting excited about all the sweets and treats that come with it. Whether you wait until Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Hanukkah to indulge or you’re baking goodies every weekend, we all know that too many sweets can wreak havoc on our skin’s health. Diet and acne are directly related, so if you’re prone to diet-related breakouts each year, here are a few steps you can take to prevent and treat those holiday-sweet breakout blues.

Practice Portion Control

One of the biggest reasons the holiday season indulgences trigger breakouts is the sheer volume of sweet and savory treats we eat. If you eat a relatively healthy diet throughout most of the year and then go overboard on unhealthy foods during the holiday season, your body will be overwhelmed by the introduction of unexpected foods. Practice portion control with your sweets to help ease your body into eating these types of foods. You can still enjoy all the goodies of the seasons, but you should do so in moderation.

Drink Enough Water

To balance the high amounts of sugar and salt in holiday foods, drinking enough water is essential. In general, getting your daily dose of water is recommended to keep your skin healthy and hydrated; this becomes even more important during the holidays. Winter months breed dry skin, and dry skin coupled with sugary, oily foods can be a deadly combination that triggers an overproduction of oil, leading to pimples and acne. Make sure you’re drinking enough water to keep your breakouts at bay. 

Some Treats Are Worse Than Others 

We’re not telling you to restrict your enjoyment of holiday goodies, but if you are looking to avoid all foods that may put your skin at risk, USAToday has put together a starter list of the holiday foods you may want to skip. If you’re seriously concerned about your skin, any products that are high in dairy, salt, sugar, or any combination of these ingredients may warrant a second thought. There are many recipes out there that offer healthier alternatives to some of the holiday’s hottest treats – these options are good for your skin and your body. 

All in all, enjoy the season! Understanding what causes holiday-sweet breakouts and how to avoid them is all you need to make smart decisions in your seasonal eating choices. If you follow these guidelines and still see breakouts, a customized treatment may be your solution.

Choosing the right skincare routine for your unique needs is the best first step to set you on the path to renewed confidence and empowerment. Acne treatments look different for everyone, but knowing how to protect your skin as you work through stubborn acne can help set you on the path to healthy skin and a clear mind. Ready to get started with an acne-fighting routine that really works? Download the Acne Intelligence app for your free consultation and personalized regimen today.