Acne is a condition that plagues people of all ages. During the summer months, acne tends to get worse for a variety of reasons. You need to know what to do when it’s active and inactive to manage it better and keep breakouts at bay. Let’s learn more about these stages of acne and how to combat it in the summer.
Non-Active Acne
Acne occurs when the pores become clogged with excess oil, bacteria, inflammation, and dead skin cells. This forms bumps at the opening of pores called comedones, inflammatory papules, and pustules. These can be open (blackheads) or closed (whiteheads) and can be flesh-colored, white, or dark. When there are no signs of acne present (pimples or bumps) or is well-controlled, it is in a non-active stage. This is the early stage of acne and is a tricky one since there is no acne present. However, that can change, so keeping up a maintenance routine will help reduce the number of breakouts.
Active Acne
The active stage is when signs or acne are present by the visible bumps that have fluid or do not. These commonly form on the forehead, chin, cheeks, and back. The bumps can become inflamed, red, and painful. Inflammatory acne is the most severe form, often causing scars as it heals. Depending on the severity, routine care at home is sufficient to reduce breakouts. A dermatologist should handle stubborn and more severe cases.
How To Treat Acne in the Summertime
Summer causes our bodies to produce more sweat, heat, and oil, which leads to increased breakouts during this time. Given this, it makes sense that June is Acne Awareness Month. Below are some tips to help beat summer breakouts:
- Oil-Free Sunscreen– Since your skin is producing more oil during the summer, using an oil-free broad-spectrum sunscreen will reduce the amount of oil your skin is exposed to. Instead, use mineral-based sunscreens, such as zinc oxide and titanium oxide.
- Eat Sugary Foods Sparingly– Food and drinks that are high in sugar raise insulin levels, which increase the skin’s oil production. Pureed frozen berries are a great alternative to ice cream and opt for less sugary drink options.
- Acne– Reducing Cleanser- Using an acne-reducing cleanser that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide regularly helps minimize overall bacteria growth that can clog pores.
- Moisturize– Use a moisturizer that is lightweight every day, even if your skin is naturally oily. Not moisturizing can make your acne worse. Choose one that contains ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and/or niacinamide.
If your acne or other skin conditions are concerning you, seeing a dermatologist will help you get the right treatment for you. To book your consultation with Texas Dermatology, call (210) 728-3919, or click here.
References:
https://ada.com/conditions/acne-vulgaris/
https://www.thehealthy.com/skin-health/acne/summer-acne-treatment/
https://www.healthline.com/health/skin/subclinical-acne#treatment
