Tips for Dealing with Summertime Acne

There’s no better complement to a bikini and a beach towel than glowing, sun-kissed summer skin. Unfortunately, the warmer months of the year also come with an increase in acne for many people. Don’t let unwanted breakouts put a damper on your vacation! Understanding the cause of summer acne can help you combat the problem and keep your skin clear.

What Causes Acne?

Your skin naturally produces oil, called sebum. Together with dead skin cells, sebum can become trapped in your pores, clogging them up and providing an environment for natural bacteria to multiply. This causes the inflammation that shows up on your face and body as acne.

Tips to Clear Up Your Acne this Summer

Many people experience increased acne in the summertime since sweat, heat, and humidity all contribute to clogged pores. Luckily, there are solutions. These tips will help you clear up your acne and enjoy healthy, glowing skin all summer long.

1. Use the Right Products

Between the sun and the heat, summer can be a punishing time for your complexion. Providing your skin with the care it needs can be tricky when you want to avoid adding extra oil, therefore non-greasy products are a must-have for clear summer skin. Start by opting for an oil-free sunscreen. Mineral formulations, like zinc or titanium oxide, are also good choices. You may want to switch out your usual cleanser for a light foaming formulation as well. If your acne is especially persistent, experiment with products that contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. These chemicals help suppress oil production, remove dead skin cells, and clear out clogged pores.

2. Don’t Skimp on Moisturizing or Exfoliating

With sweat and humidity dampening your face, you may be tempted to avoid moisturizing, but don’t be fooled, skin that hasn’t been moisturized can become even oilier, thus worsening acne. Look for a moisturizer containing hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or ceramides to provide lightweight hydration that won’t cause you to break out. Make sure to keep exfoliation treatments in your skin care routine as well. By clearing out pores and removing dead cells, exfoliants help prevent breakouts. They also promote cell turnover, which helps to heal acne scars and leaves you with a smooth, glowing complexion. Look into techniques like glycolic exfoliation, which are gentle enough to be used every day.

3. Take Steps to Manage Sweat

Hot summer days can sometimes feel like a constant battle against that sticky feeling. When allowed to sit on your skin, sweat seeps into your pores, clogging them up and promoting bacterial growth. Natural fibers, such as lightweight cotton, absorb sweat and keep it away from your body. Cotton clothing also breathes, allowing a flow of air that keeps you cooler and drier. Make sure to avoid clothing made of waterproof materials, such as synthetic polyester. Showering or washing your face after sweaty days out in the sun can also help reduce acne. However, be careful not to overdo it because mechanical stress from too much scrubbing can cause you to break out.

4. Develop Good Summer Habits

Many of us enjoy sugary summer treats, greasy barbecue food, and cold alcoholic drinks when the sun comes out. While there’s nothing wrong with a little indulgence, be sure to moderate your consumption of these acne-promoting foods. Build skin-healthy habits when you take a dip in the pool or at the beach as well. Don’t sit around in a wet swimsuit, allowing salt, sweat, and chlorine to seep into your skin. Shower with soap to keep impurities out of your pores.

See a Dermatologist

Having trouble clearing up persistent acne? It may be time to visit a dermatologist. The experts at Windsor Dermatology can provide you treatment and recommendations for this common skin complaint. Schedule an appointment with the experienced staff at Windsor Dermatology in East Windsor, New Jersey. Call the office today at 609-443-4500, or request an appointment online!

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