Why does acne flare up in summer? Causes and solutions

Have you noticed that summer acne Does it appear on your face, décolletage or back during the hottest time of the year?

Warm weather, increased humidity and changes in daily habits significantly affect the skin during the summer period. If you are already predisposed to acne, summer may bring a flare-up.

As an aesthetic medicine nurse, I observe recurring patterns every summer season. Below, I explain why acne is more common in summer, how to prevent it, and what solutions might help you.

What does science say about summer acne?

For example, the 2015 surveyChoi et al., Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and VenereologyIt was confirmed that increased temperature and humidity are associated with the exacerbation of acne. It was also found that UV radiation can cause thickening of the stratum corneum as a protective mechanism of the skin, which increases the risk of comedone formation.

Causes of summer acne:

1. Increased obesity

Warmer air and higher humidity stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum sebum – moisturizing and protective sebum. If sebum production exceeds the skin’s natural needs, it mixes with dead skin cells and makeup residues and can clog pores. This creates an environment conducive to inflammation and can cause both blackheads and inflammatory pimples.

Scientific view:
A study conducted in 2019 found that 40.4% The patients experienced acne in the summer., which was statistically associated with higher temperature and humidity. This is important evidence for the association of summer acne problems. Research reference

2. Sweating and bacterial growth

Sweat alone is not the cause of acne, but when combined with sebum, dead skin cells and bacteria, it creates the perfect environment for acne to develop acne to the bacteria. When sweat dries on the skin, it can promote clogging of the pores, especially when wearing tight-fitting clothes or exercising in a hot environment.

Tip:
After heavy sweating, it is advisable to gently cleanse or rinse the skin with lukewarm water, avoiding harsh and drying products.

3. Sun protection and comedogenic ingredients

I keep repeating that SPF is a must in the summer, but not all sunscreens are suitable for oily skin. Some contain comedogenic oils or thick textures that can exacerbate acne. This does not mean that SPF should be skipped – rather, you should choose a product that is suitable for oily or acne-prone skin. noncomedogenic and oil-free sunscreen. I also provide product recommendations below.

Important fact:
Studies show that regular use of sunscreen does not worsen acne if the right product is chosen. The problem primarily arises due to the wrong composition and insufficient skin cleansing.

4. Effects of the sun on the skin

At first, it may seem that the sun “dries out” pimples and makes the skin clearer. However, this is a short-term effect. UV radiation may temporarily reduce the visibility of inflammation, but in the long term it damages the skin, accelerates aging and thickens the stratum corneum. The thickened stratum corneum makes it difficult for sebum to be released and may lead to an exacerbation of acne a few weeks after intense sunbathing.

5. Changes in lifestyle and nutrition

In the summer, dietary habits often change – there is an increase in the consumption of cold sweet drinks, ice cream, and alcohol. Foods with a high glycemic load and alcohol affect insulin levels and hormonal balance, which in turn can increase sebum production and inflammation.

How to prevent summer acne?

1. Clean your skin gently but consistently

Wash your face in the morning and evening using a gentle cleansing gel or foam suitable for your skin type. Avoid strong alcohol-based toners that can dry out the skin and thus increase sebum production.

2. moisturize the skin also in summer

Even oily skin needs hydration. Light, gel-based or water-based moisturizers that do not clog pores are suitable.

3. Use appropriate sun protection

Select SPF marked with oil-free or non-comedogenicSun protection should be applied every day and reapplied every 2–3 hours when outdoors.

4. Reduce friction and irritation

During exercise or warm weather, wear breathable, looser clothing. Change your clothes and wash your skin after sweating.

5. Watch the diet

Where possible, reduce your intake of excess sugar and processed foods. Support skin health with antioxidant-rich foods and adequate water consumption. A good tip for maintaining stable blood sugar levels is to always eat protein- and fat-rich savory food first on an empty stomach and avoid consuming carbohydrate-rich foods on an empty stomach.

Products to prevent or relieve summer acne:

Here are some product recommendations whose composition I know and feel confident recommending. However, to find a product that is really suitable for you, I recommend consulting with a specialist from our clinic or a professional beautician who can assess the actual condition of your skin and provide the right and appropriate product recommendations. This is not an advertisement but my personal recommendation.

Facial cleaning product for summer acne

Moisturizing cream for summer acne

Good sunscreens for acne skin

The procedures we can offer for summer acne:

I look forward to offering professional solutions for treating summer acne at the aesthetic dermatology clinic NOOR

At our clinic, we use a combination of different procedures for summer acne to reduce inflammation, clear pores, and restore the skin’s balance

• Chemical peelings (the most effective and popular procedure for acne-prone skin) – chemical peeling, or in other words, acid peeling, cleanses pores and reduces inflammation. In chemical peeling, we consider the condition of the skin and choose the appropriate acid based on the skin type.

• LED light therapy – It is very effective to combine with acid treatment: LED light therapy. For example, blue light reduces the activity of acne bacteria, while red light soothes the skin and accelerates recovery.

• Microneedling with iPRF – improves skin structure, fights inflammation and helps reduce post-acne scars. (Microneedling itself makes the skin texture very radiant and even, while iPRF or autologous blood injections act as powerful skin healers and stimulate collagen and elastin production as a significant bonus). Iprf or autologous blood injections are also excellent when the skin has already been exposed to too much sun. Read more.

• Personalised home care plan – (the foundation of everything!) supports the effects of the procedures and maintains the results.

The most important part of all procedures is to use a good amount of sunscreen regularly

Summary on the topic of summer acne

Summer can bring both sunlight and challenges to the skin. Heat, humidity, sweating and improper care can promote or even aggravate acne, but informed choices and the right procedures can help keep your skin under control. If you feel that summer acne is affecting your well-being, it is worth consulting a specialist – together we will definitely find a solution.