How to Manage Breakouts During Holiday Stress

How to Manage Breakouts During Holiday Stress
The holiday season is often filled with joy, celebrations, and gatherings — but it can also bring stress, busy schedules, disrupted sleep, indulgent foods, and changes in routine. All of these factors can contribute to skin flare‑ups and acne breakouts. At MDCS Dermatology, Dr. Gregory S. Phillips, MD helps patients navigate holiday stress with skin‑safe, effective strategies so you can enjoy the season without compromising your skin.

Why Holidays Can Trigger Breakouts
Holiday-related stress — from planning, social commitments, travel, or busy days — can elevate stress hormones like cortisol. High cortisol can increase oil production and inflammation, which may clog pores and trigger acne. Skin & Beauty Center+2MDacne+2

Meanwhile, changes in sleep schedule, late nights, and irregular meals can disrupt your skin’s natural rhythm and barrier function — making skin more prone to breakouts and slower to heal. www.ndtv.com+2US Dermatology Partners+2

Also, holiday routines often involve heavier makeup, richer foods (sweets, rich meals), alcohol, and dehydration — all of which can worsen skin sensitivity, oiliness, or inflammation. Apex Skin+2RosyCheeked+2

Smart Habits to Keep Skin Clear During the Holidays
Here are dermatologist‑recommended tips to help prevent holiday breakouts:

• Stick to a gentle, consistent skincare routine. Use a mild, non‑comedogenic cleanser twice a day, followed by a lightweight moisturizer and sunscreen (yes, even in winter or cold weather). Avoid harsh scrubs or overly strong acne cleansers that strip the skin barrier. Chevy Chase Dermatology, LLC+2US Dermatology Partners+2

• Remove makeup thoroughly before bed. After festive events, don’t skip cleansing — makeup, sweat, and oils can clog pores. Double‑cleansing (first with a gentle, makeup‑dissolving cleanser, then a mild wash) helps reduce risk of post‑holiday breakouts. www.ndtv.com+1

• Moisturize and protect the skin barrier. Even if skin is oily, dehydration and dryness can backfire — leading to more oil production and breakouts. Use non‑comedogenic moisturizers (gel or lightweight cream) to balance hydration without clogging. Himaira+2SLMD Skincare+2

• Watch what you eat and drink. Holiday treats, sugary foods, heavy meals, and alcohol can promote inflammation and trigger acne. Try to balance indulgence with nourishing, whole foods and plenty of water. Skin MD+2US Dermatology Partners+2

• Prioritize stress relief and sleep. Incorporate stress‑busting habits like deep breathing, short walks, light exercise, or quiet time. Quality sleep allows the skin to repair; poor sleep can worsen inflammation and impede healing. MDacne+2Apex Skin+2

• Be gentle on your skin — avoid over‑treating. If you already use acne‑fighting products (like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide), be cautious — holiday stress plus too‑aggressive treatment can disrupt the skin barrier and worsen breakouts, especially in dry or cold weather. US Dermatology Partners+1

When to Get Professional Help
If breakouts are persistent, inflamed, or painful — especially around special events — it might be worth consulting with a professional. At MDCS Dermatology, Dr. Gregory S. Phillips, MD can assess your skin, recommend treatment plans, or suggest in-office options tailored to stress-induced acne.

Holiday skin challenges don’t have to mean bad breakouts. With small, consistent habits — cleaning gently, hydrating, protecting, and managing stress — you can keep skin calm, clear, and glowing even amid the bustle of the season.

Book your appointment online today: MDCS Dermatology Booking