Summer Acne: Tips for Preventing Breakouts

Key Takeaway

• Breakouts in the summer are common due to increased heat and humidity, which result in higher sebum production and sweating. 
• Using the wrong skin products or winter-specific products can clog pores and result in breakouts.
• Cleaning frequently, using light creams & lotions, refraining from touching the face, and maintaining hydration, can help prevent acne breakouts during the summer. 
• Persistent, severe, and painful acne requires consultation with a dermatologist. 
• Early treatment of acne can help prevent permanent acne scars and dark spots. 

Why are acne breakouts more common in the summer? 

Taking care of your skin means adapting to the changing seasons. In the winter, when the air is dry, your skin craves deep hydration. On the other hand, summer brings sweat and oiliness, so it’s important to clean the skin regularly and opt for oil-free products. Speaking of summer, skincare becomes more focused and preventive. Additionally, one thing that often accompanies the summer season is acne (acne treatment), and as the temperature rises, pimples on the face tend to appear more frequently. 

It is irritating at times, though, are you aware why summer months bring more breakouts? Did you know? A research study focused on Google searches reported that acne-related searches increase in the summer compared to other times of the year. The primary reason behind acne breakouts in summer is related to increased sebum production and sweat. 

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What causes acne breakouts in the summer?

A combination of factors can lead to acne breakouts in the summer. The increased sweating can lead to clogging of pores and create an environment where acne-causing bacteria thrive. Interestingly, even those who usually don’t struggle with breakouts might find themselves dealing with acne on their faces during the summer, while those who typically do may notice an increase in their usual flare-ups.

• Increased Sebum Production:

  Increased sebum production is the primary cause of acne breakouts during the summer. In warmer temperatures, the body produces more sweat and more oil; these, along with dead cells and dirt, can clog pores. This blockade results in pimples on the face, blackheads, whiteheads, and more. 

• Humidity & Sweat:

  Warmer days bring humidity along as a bundled package. The warm and moist environment encourages acne-causing bacteria to thrive, particularly in sweaty areas that aren’t cleaned properly. 

• Sun Exposure:

  Sun exposure can initially dry out pimples on the face, but prolonged exposure can lead to increased oil production, leading to clogging of pores, ultimately exacerbating acne breakouts. Plus, sunscreen meant for sun exposure can also sometimes worsen acne breakouts due to its ingredients.

• Wrong Skin Care Products:

  Using skin care products in the summers, like heavy sunscreens, greasy moisturizer, waterproof makeup, etc. can block pores. During the summers, choose products suited for humid weather, and focus on light, non-clogging, and soothing ingredients.

• Hormonal Changes:

  Did you know? Exposure to high temperatures can affect the body’s hormonal balance. While hormones fluctuate throughout the year, summer can subtly influence the hormonal balance. This fluctuation in hormonal levels during summers, particularly during puberty, menstruation (all about periods – for teens), pregnancy (discomforts during pregnancy – symptoms & relief tips), etc. can increase sebum production leading to acne. 

• Poor Hygiene:

  Another common factor leading to acne breakouts in the summer is due to poor hygiene. In the summers, we tend to sweat more and inadequate cleansing of the skin can lead to the accumulation of sweat, bacteria, and dead skin cells, clogging pores, resulting in acne. 

• Friction & Tight Clothing:

  Tight clothing during the summer can trap sweat and heat against the skin, particularly in areas where clothing rubs against the skin, resulting in acne. 

• Touching the Face Often:

  We don’t often realise it, but we tend to touch our face or body too much to wipe away sweat in summer. Though using bare hands or used napkins can irritate the skin barrier, leading to clogged pores and acne.

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Tips to prevent summer acne breakouts

While during summers it is almost impossible to avoid sweating, below are some dermatologically recommended tips that can help prevent summer acne breakouts.

• Cleanse Regularly: During the summers, use a gentle oil-free cleanser to wash away sweat, dirt, and excess oil. Ideally, cleaning the skin should be done after heavy sweating, exercising, or exposure to dirt and impurities. 
• Avoid Heavy Lotions or Creams: The creams and lotions we use in the winters are not meant to work during the summers; in fact, they can make things worse for the skin. When the temperature is high, it is recommended to use a light moisturizer and water-based sun-screen to help prevent pores from clogging.
• Refrain from Touching the Face: Avoid touching the face, given hands pick up dirt, bacteria, sweat, and oil from numerous surfaces, touching the face after this allows for the bacteria to get transferred directly onto the skin, resulting in breakouts. 
• Wear Breathable Clothing: Wear breathable clothes and avoid tight, synthetic fabrics as they trap sweat and oil, which may lead to acne breakouts. During the summers, opt for light, cotton clothes to reduce body acne.
• Avoid Popping Pimples: Refrain from popping the pimples; the squeezing and digging may lead to inflammation, scars (know everything about keloid scar), and even infection. Plus, popping can force bacteria, oil, and pus deeper into the skin and spread bacteria to nearby pores. 
• Watch Your Diet & Maintain Hydration: Keep the intake of sugary drinks, fried foods, and dairy to a minimum. Add more fruits, veggies, and water-rich foods to the diet (balanced diet). Also, maintain enough hydration as it helps flush out toxins and keeps the skin balanced and calm.

Also Read: Dermatitis – Types, Causes, Symptoms & Home Remedies for Treatment

When to see a dermatologist?

Occasional breakouts are common; however, some signs may require professional help. Here’s when you should consult a dermatologist,

When to See a Dermatologist	Why?
Persistent or Severe Acne	If breakouts don’t respond to regular skincare or last for months, medical-grade treatment is needed.
Painful, Large, or Cystic Pimples	Deep lesions can scar and require prescription medication or in-clinic procedures.
Signs of Hormonal Acne	Breakouts linked to periods, jawline acne, or adult acne may need hormonal assessment and targeted care.
When there’s Acne Scars or Dark Spots (home remedies for dark spot)	Early treatment can prevent permanent marks and help fade existing scars effectively.

 

Acne isn’t limited to the skin and the face. From heat, sweat, and inappropriate products to hormonal changes and lifestyle routines, it seems like there are a million causes of breakouts all over the body. Stopping summer acne is about taking a conscious, whole-body plan: using light, non-comedogenic skincare, resisting constant face-touching or pimple-squeezing, eating cleanly, and drinking plenty of water. And once acne is painful, persistent, or psychologically stressful, consulting a dermatologist can be the key. With proper treatment, clear skin and a healthy complexion are achievable, no matter what the weather.

Also Read: Uses & Benefits of Castor Oil

FAQs

Does niacinamide help with acne?

Niacinamide, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, can help with acne. 

Does shampoo irritate acne?

Certain types of shampoos can irritate acne, especially the ones containing pore-clogging ingredients or irritants.

Is acne worse in summer or winter?

Acne can be worse in both summer and winter. In the summers, the increased sweating & oil can lead to breakouts, while in winters, given the dry air & humidity, the body overcompensates by producing more oil, which can also lead to acne.