Acne Management during the Summer

Summer brings to us its share of problems, from remembering to stay hydrated, managing sweat, and of course, acne breakouts. This is especially relevant in India, where the heat is more potent. The combination of heat, humidity, increased sweating and outdoor activity with tight occlusive clothing can wreak havoc on our skin, leading to more frequent and stubborn breakouts. This is called tropical acne.  Understanding why acne flares up in the summer and adopting the right skincare habits can help you maintain a clear complexion all season long.

Why Acne Flares Up in Summer:

1. Increased Sweat: Sweating more in the summer can mix with excess oil and dead skin cells, clogging pores and leading to breakouts.
2. Humidity: High humidity can stimulate the skin to produce more oil, which, when combined with dead skin cells and bacteria, can clog pores and lead to breakouts. The skin’s surface also becomes more hydrated in humid conditions, which can cause the outermost layer of the skin to swell, constricting the pore openings and making them more prone to blockages. Humid environments provide a breeding ground for acne-causing bacteria.
3. Sun Exposure: While sunlight can initially improve acne by drying out pimples, overexposure can lead to thicker skin and more oil production, worsening acne in the long run.
4. Outdoor Activity in Tight Clothing: The friction and pressure from tight garments can irritate the skin and hair follicles, leading to acne breakouts. Tight clothing also traps heat and sweat against the skin, which could create an environment for acne-causing bacteria to thrive.
5. Makeup: Makeup can contribute to acne by clogging pores and trapping bacteria, oils, and dead skin cells. Applying heavy or oily makeup products can exacerbate acne by blocking pores and preventing the skin from breathing properly. Additionally, not removing makeup properly, or going to sleep with makeup allows products to build up on the skin along with dirt and bacteria, which increases the risk of acne breakouts.

Skincare Tips for Managing Acne in the Summer:

1. Cleanse Wisely: Use a gentle cleanser twice a day to remove sweat, oil, and impurities without stripping your skin.
2. Use Non-comedogenic Products: A lot of products are comedogenic, which means that they tend to clog pores and cause blackheads. Look for a moisturiser with non-comedogenic products.  Opt for a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to hydrate your skin without clogging pores.
3. Sun Protection: UV damage can exacerbate acne. Use a sunscreen with an SPF above 40 and a PA+++ label to protect your skin. Reapply every four hours. There are acne specific sunscreens available.  For more guidance on choosing a sunscreen, please check out our blog post on the same.
4. Hydration: Drink plenty of water to hydrate your skin from the inside out and flush out toxins that can contribute to acne.
5. Cool Showers: Take cool showers to lower your body temperature and reduce sweating, which can help prevent pore blockage.
6. Avoid tight clothing – Wear lose clothes.

General Tip: Do NOT Pop Your Pimples:

When a pimple is particularly stubborn or itchy, the urge to pop it is understandable. However, you must avoid it as it turns a short-term problem into a long-term one. When you pop a pimple, you exert pressure on the skin, forcing oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells deeper into the skin. This can cause the following:

1. Further Inflammation: Popping a pimple can increase inflammation, making the pimple appear larger, redder, and more painful.
2. Infection: The act of popping can introduce bacteria from your hands into the pimple, increasing the risk of infection. This can lead to the formation of more pimples in the surrounding area.
3. Scarring: Popping pimples can damage the surrounding skin tissue, leading to the formation of acne scars.

Acne Treatments for Breakouts During the Summer:

If you experience a breakout during the summer, consider the following treatments:

• Benzoyl Peroxide: Helps kill bacteria and reduce inflammation. Start with a lower concentration to avoid irritation.
• Salicylic Acid: Helps unclog pores and reduce redness and swelling. Use a spot treatment or a face wash containing salicylic acid. You can also do a Salicylic Acid peel as directed by a dermatologist for increased exposure. Please check out our blog post on the same.
• Topical Retinoids: Help prevent clogged pores and reduce inflammation. Use as directed by a dermatologist, as they can increase dryness and  sensitivity to the sun.

While over-the-counter treatments can be effective for mild acne, persistent or severe acne may require prescription medications or procedures. Dermatologists can provide personalized treatment plans based on your skin type and severity of acne. They may recommend oral medications, such as antibiotics or isotretinoin, or procedures like chemical peels or laser therapy. You can consult with our specialists at the Venkat Center for treatments more suited to your skin type.

Acne breakouts are frustrating but manageable. If you follow these basic skincare tips, you will be fine.