How Can You Prevent Summer Acne Breakouts?
The most common skin condition in the country is acne. Albuquerque’s team at the Spa @ Western Dermatology Consultants explains that acne is an inflammatory skin condition that happens when bacteria, dead skin, and oils become trapped in pores. Although the condition can occur in any season, many people find that their breakouts become worse in the summer because the extra heat and humidity cause their body to produce more oil and sweat. Since oil glands are working overtime, the pores are more likely to become blocked.
Spots and blemishes on the face and body are the last thing you want to be worried about when you’re having fun outdoors, wearing tank tops, shorts, and swimsuits. Want to prevent annoying acne flare-ups throughout the summer? Preventing acne is always easier than treating it, so it makes sense to put together a plan to help your skin adjust.
The best type of treatment for your acne all depends on what type of acne you have. Considering that we just wrapped Acne Awareness Month, Western Dermatology Consultants has some simple tips to keep your skin clear:
1. Alter Your Skincare Routine
We need to moisturize, even in hot weather, because our skin can become very dry and dehydrated. Now is the time to switch to lighter, water-based moisturizers instead of oil-based creams. Hyaluronic acid lotions may be your best option because they keep the skin hydrated without causing pores to become congested. Foaming cleansers are ideal for hot weather, but generally, you should choose a cleanser that’s suitable for your skin type. Wash your face once or twice a day. Retinoids and exfoliants containing alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids can help to reduce the likelihood of acne flare-ups. Avoid using products with fragrance that can irritate the skin.
2. Shower Anytime You Sweat
Sweat is bad for acne, so whenever you sweat or after a workout or an extended period in the sun, be sure to shower and use a cleanser that contains salicylic acid. If you suffer from acne, lukewarm or cold showers may be your best option because they help to control oil production. Cold water also reduces the appearance of pores. Hot showers open pores and strip oil from the skin, triggering it to produce more oil. Showering also helps to remove the dirt and grime that can contribute to acne. Just remember to avoid showering, washing your face, or exfoliating too often as it can cause plenty of skin irritation that worsens acne.
3. Don’t Make Your Routine Too Complex
Unfortunately, there’s only so much you can do for acne in hot weather. Deviating too much from your usual routine may make things worse. If you’re noticing some pimples and have painful cysts, you might start to panic about it and immediately start using strong acids, exfoliating too much, applying too much retinol, or smearing on other acne products. Your skin likes consistency, and doing too much could cause your breakouts to become worse. While acne can be worrisome, it’s better to just do nothing and wait things out. Maintain your normal routine and sparingly apply gentle spot treatments to pimples or inflamed bumps if you need to.
4. Choose Your Sunscreen Wisely
Regardless of your skin type, you should be using sunblock at all times of the year whenever you go out. If you’re prone to getting zits, switch out your greasy sunscreen for one that’s lightweight, non-comedogenic, and oil-free or powder-based. Ideally, it should be SPF 30. Many of the common acne medications also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so you’ll need to be careful to avoid sunburns or sun damage.
For more information about treating acne, contact Albuquerque, NM’s The Spa @ Western Dermatology Consultants. Call 505-855-9267 or submit a contact form online to schedule a consultation if you would like to learn more about ways to manage skin conditions.