From going to the beach, hiking with friends, enjoying ice cream… and living with acne flare ups—summertime has it all.
Unfortunately, summer humidity tends to exacerbate inflammation, pore blockage, and overactive oil glands. Mix in some sunscreen, plus still wearing masks to protect yourself against COVID-19, and summer acne only gets worse.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD), acne impacts the lives of up to 50 million Americans every year. Luckily, there are effective ways to prevent and treat summer breakouts.
Acne Prevention and Management
The myriad possible combinations of individual acne causes and unique skin types means that no single acne prevention method may be 100% guaranteed for you. However, certain tips and tricks may be able to help you soothe your skin.
Eat a Clean-Skin Diet
Maintaining a healthy diet can lead to long-term benefits for your skin condition, including alleviating acne. If you notice certain foods trigger acne flare ups, consider avoiding them. For example, a Harvard Medical School study discovered that people who consume high-fat and sugary food products are more likely to experience acne.
Use OTC Acne Products
The AAD recommends finding over-the-counter treatments with either of these three ingredients:
- Benzoyl peroxide, which fights facial bacteria
- Retinoids that help unclog pores and reduce oiliness
- Salicylic acid that soothes inflammation
If you’re unsuccessful with mixing and matching on your own with over-the-counter treatments (or if they seem to make your condition worse), consider an acne treatment plan with a dermatologist.
Avoid Cosmetics and Products that Worsen Acne
During the cold winter months, your skin needs more moisture for protection, but using the same products during humid summer conditions can end up worsening breakouts. If you haven’t had a chance to spring clean your skincare or makeup routine, now is the time to do so.
Consider a lightweight moisturizer fueled with SPF protection, for example. As Omer Ibrahim, co-director of clinical research at Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology shared with Allure: “thicker moisturizers can lead to clogged pores, inflammation, and acne; especially if you have acne-prone or oily skin, so losing one skin-care step with a combination moisturizer/SPF can help keep skin clear.”
Sun protection is absolutely essential, especially during the summer months, but regularly applying sunscreen can be a common culprit behind acne breakouts. Work with your dermatologist to find one that will provide enough protection against harmful UV rays, but without heavy ingredients that may clog your pores.
Aesthetic Treatments for Summer
Not all aesthetic treatments are advised for summertime. Though laser treatments may help with problematic acne, for example, this intensive form of skin exfoliation will only leave your skin more sensitively exposed. Consult with your dermatologist about whether dermaplaning or a blown oxygen facial may help de-pimple your summer glow instead.
No matter the season nor your skin condition, our team at Olansky Dermatology & Aesthetics is here to provide you with customized skin treatment solutions. Schedule your appointment with one of our professional dermatologists online or by calling us at (404) 355-5484.
