Summer Acne

Warm weather and long days mean summertime is here. However, oily skin, blackheads, and breakouts can come with it, too. Acne prone skin can most problematic during the summer months, when the surplus heat activates the sebaceous glands to produce even more sebum (oil). By slightly adjusting your daily routine, you can help manage summer acne for healthy-looking skin all season long.

Wash Away the Oil that Causes Summer Acne

Heat and humidity can cause oil glands to work overtime, so control oiliness by washing your face with a cleanser twice daily and by using a toner, as well. Two of these products can be found in the Proactiv regimen. If your skin gets exceptionally oily, you can also add midday cleansing. Just be aware not to cleanse too often, since this can break down the skin’s protective barrier and cause excessive dryness and irritation that would ultimately worsen breakouts. A toner helps to remove any oils and dust that were not washed away with your cleanser, can help manage the amount of sebum production, and clears away dead skin cells for a fresher appearance.

Hydrate Less – And More

While in the winter, it is important to boost hydration by moisturizing more frequently, summer is when you should use lighter moisturizers that are non-comedogenic and oil-free. Avoid products that say “moisturizing cream.”

On the other hand, because your body can easily become dehydrated in the heat, you do need to hydrate with more water. Drink at least eight glasses of water (eight ounces each). Drinking water keeps your skin moisturized and helps your body release toxins.

The More Sun, The More Sunscreen

Certain acne medications can make your skin more sensitive to sun exposure, so be sure to apply sunscreen daily when using acne treatments to protect your skin. While many people think that exposure to the summer sun is good for their skin, because it tends to burn off pimples, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation puts skin at risk for cancer and premature aging. What’s more, the sun simply burns the topmost layer of facial skin, rather than targeting the root causes of summer acne. Any positive effects are only temporary. Pimples will reappear as soon as the sebum starts clogging pores again. Dermatologists suggest against tanning and recommend a non-comedogenic, oil-free sunscreen of at least SPF 15 though SPF 30 is ideal.

Summer Sweating Means More Showers

Sweat can irritate acne, so be sure to shower with lukewarm water after working out or anytime you work up a sweat. To help treat summer acne on the body, choose a body wash with salicylic acid to treat blackheads or benzoyl peroxide for inflamed pimples. By thoroughly washing away sweat as soon as possible, you can help reduce the severity of breakouts. If you live in regions where there is both heat and humidity, you may be more prone to a form of acne called acne mechanica. This type of acne develops when skin is subjected to excess heat and friction from clothes, athletic equipment, hats, and other similar products. Wear breathable cotton instead of synthetic materials.

Eat Juicy

Another way to stay hydrated is to consume hydrating foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables. These natural methods replenish your skin with essential nutrients and vitamins and are good for your body overall.

Implement as many of these tips as you can to maintain healthy, glowing skin this summer season!