The Summer Breakout: Why Heat and Sweat Cause Acne and How We Can Help
Is there anything more frustrating than feeling the sun on your skin, only to be met with a new constellation of breakouts in the mirror? If you find your acne flares up the moment the weather gets warmer, you are not alone. It’s a common complaint we see here at Hough Green Clinic.
The combination of heat, humidity, and higher UV levels can create the perfect storm for pimples, pustules, and congestion. But don’t despair—understanding the cause is the first step to finding a solution. Let’s dive into why summer can be tough on acne-prone skin and, more importantly, what we can do to help you manage it.
Why Does My Skin Break Out More in the Summer?
Several factors contribute to this seasonal skin struggle. Your skin is trying to adapt to a new environment, and the results aren’t always ideal.
Increased Oil and Sweat
When your body gets hot, it produces sweat to cool you down. At the same time, the heat and humidity can signal your sebaceous glands to produce more oil (sebum). This mixture of excess oil and sweat can easily trap dirt and dead skin cells, leading to clogged pores—the primary cause of acne breakouts.
The Wrong Sunscreen
While sunscreen is the single most important part of your summer skincare routine, the wrong formula can be a major problem. Thick, heavy, and comedogenic (pore-clogging) sunscreens can create an occlusive layer on the skin, trapping heat and oil and leading to congestion and spots.
Dehydration and Your Skin Barrier
It might sound counterintuitive when you feel sweaty, but your skin can easily become dehydrated in the summer from sun exposure and air conditioning. When your skin lacks water, it can sometimes overcompensate by producing even more oil to protect itself, further fueling the breakout cycle.
How We Can Help You Manage Summer Acne
Fighting summer breakouts requires a strategic approach that calms inflammation and controls bacteria without stripping the skin or making it dangerously sensitive to the sun.
Professional Treatments for Active Breakouts
The temptation to pick or squeeze spots can be overwhelming, but this often leads to more inflammation and potential scarring. Professional intervention is a safer and far more effective route. Our targeted acne, scarring and rosacea treatments are designed to deeply cleanse pores, reduce the bacteria responsible for acne, and calm angry inflammation. We can tailor our professional facial treatments to provide exactly what your skin needs, whether it’s gentle exfoliation or deep hydration, ensuring we don’t compromise your skin’s barrier.
A Note on Treating Acne Scarring in Summer
For many, the end of a breakout is only half the battle—the marks and scars left behind are the next concern. While we can manage active acne effectively in the sunnier months, it’s crucial to time your treatments for scarring carefully.
Procedures that work to resurface the skin, such as deep chemical peels or certain laser therapies, make your skin highly sensitive to sunlight. Exposing newly treated skin to strong UV rays can lead to hyperpigmentation and damage, undoing the benefits of the treatment. For this reason, we often advise planning treatments specifically for scarring for the autumn and winter months. This ensures you can heal properly without the high risk of sun exposure.
Your Summer Acne Action Plan
Alongside professional treatments, a solid at-home routine is key.
- Choose Wisely: Opt for an oil-free, non-comedogenic sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Gel or fluid textures are often better for acne-prone skin.
- Cleanse Thoroughly: Be sure to cleanse your face every morning and evening, and especially after sweating heavily. A gentle cleanser with an ingredient like salicylic acid can be beneficial.
- Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Don’t Let Breakouts Ruin Your Summer
You don’t have to spend the season battling your skin. With expert guidance and a personalised treatment plan, you can control summer breakouts and enjoy clear, healthy skin.
If you are struggling with acne and want a plan tailored specifically for you, we invite you to book a consultation at Hough Green Clinic here in Chester. Our team is ready to help you achieve your skin goals.
