It might seem logical that being in the sun might dry up acne on your face and back. However, no amount of sunbathing will help, plus it’s dangerous for your skin. In fact, summertime can increase your breakouts just when you want to pull out your tank tops and bathing suit. It might be time for a summer acne SOS: strategies for clearing up breakouts in the hot summer.
Why Summer Can Be Worse For Acne
What do we all do in summer? We sweat. Mix that with sunscreen, lotions, oils to keep our skin moisturized during the hot months. Think about it; all that does is clog our pores with dirt and oils to make the perfect recipe for acne. We can even make it worse by using thicker products which clog our pores even more. Those are OK in winter, but you want to put them away during hot weather.
Anywhere on your body that manufactures more oil is a breeding ground for summer acne .
What Can You Do?
There are some pragmatic changes to your skincare that can help to tamp down any new breakouts.
- Ask Dr. Goodless at Goodless Dermatology to recommend a summer cleanser like a foaming one.
- Shower after workouts or as often as twice a day if needed to get rid of dirt and oils. Don’t scrub your face or body, just gently wash away the top layer.
- Don’t give in to popping any pimples. It may be tempting, but all that does is make acne worse and may cause scars or even an infection. Leave the pimple popping to experts.
- Use oil-free sunscreens and moisturizers which are less likely to clog pores.
- Try exfoliating. Use a gentle one to prevent disturbing the skin. Try it once a week and see if there is improvement once you remove dead skin cells. There are exfoliators for other parts of the body too.
- Change sweaty clothes as soon as possible to prevent acne on your back or chest..
- Use salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide on your blemishes.
Be Patient
Give any new regimen time to work. Don’t resort to squeezing or popping. If you find nothing is working, time to see our board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Dean Goodless. Contact (407) 566-1616 if all your summer strategies are not helping to clear breakouts in summer.
Sources: Skincare FAQs | Why is acne more common in the summer months? (usdermatologypartners.com)
How To Prevent Summer Acne Breakouts | Kelsey-Seybold Clinic