Summer is here! At least in Chicago. It's sunny, it's humid, and it's hot! With the changes in temperature, it's normal for your skin to produce excess moisture and oil, leading to clogged pores. For some, this might mean the occasional blackhead or whitehead breakout. For others, their skin might become so clogged, red, and inflamed that it leads to more severe acne.
Acne breakouts are different for everyone. You might have cystic acne or just a really stubborn pimple. If you're prone to acne or if this is the first summer you're really starting to break out, we've got some tips for you.
How to Prevent Summer Acne
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Sunscreen of Choice: Mineral Sunscreen
- Mineral sunscreens are less likely to clog pores and contribute to acne breakouts. They’re a good option for people with oily or acne-prone skin.
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Use a Salicylic Acid Cleanser
- Incorporate a salicylic acid-based cleanser into your daily routine (like our Brightening Cleanser). Salicylic acid works to treat acne by unclogging blocked pores and decreasing the skin’s sebum production, leading to fewer breakouts.
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Vitamin C
- Using a vitamin C serum in the morning, in combination with your mineral sunscreen, can help prevent redness and acne. Additionally, it's an antioxidant that can protect you against harsh environmental air pollution.
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Moisturize
- Using a gentle moisturizer at night aids your skin barrier. Our Real Deal Moisturizer works best as it has Aloe Vera and Hyaluronic acid, plus it doesn't clog your pores.
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Exfoliate (Gently)
- Your skin is bound to be clogged, whether it's from a humid day or a long day at the beach. Whether you're using an over-the-counter face mask or our Arctic Clay Mask, using ingredients like charcoal or a prescribed retinoid at night once to twice weekly can help express any clogged oil or dead skin underneath.
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Remove Makeup
- Always remove your makeup at night. Use a micellar water or your makeup remover of choice to ensure all traces of makeup are gone, preventing clogged pores and breakouts.
Treating Summer Acne
If you find yourself still battling acne despite preventive measures, it’s time to focus on treatment. Here’s what you can do:
- Spot Treatment: Use products with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to target specific breakouts.
- Hydration: Keep your skin hydrated with non-comedogenic products to avoid over-drying, which can worsen acne.
- Consult a Dermatologist: If over-the-counter treatments aren’t working, a board-certified dermatologist can provide personalized treatment options, including prescription medications and professional treatments.
These are our tips! Remember, consistent skincare tailored to your skin’s needs is key. Happy summer, and may your skin be clear and glowing!