Why do I break out more in summer?

What changes in summer?

Acne starts in hair follicles, the small channels connected to oil glands. Oil and dead skin cells can block these channels, while inflammation and bacteria contribute to pimples. High humidity can worsen acne, and pressure from headbands or chin straps adds irritation. Breakouts under sports gear or tight clothing can happen in any season, not just summer.134

Thicker moisturizers can add to pore clogging in hot weather, so the cream that suited January does not automatically get a summer contract. Switch to a lighter moisturizer and consider a water based sunscreen rather than abandoning sun protection. Keep moisturizing morning and night, but simplify the other layers when it is especially hot.1

What should I do after sweating?

1. 1Blot sweat with a clean towel or cloth rather than rubbing it away. Wiping can irritate skin and trigger breakouts.
2. 2Change out of sweaty, tight workout clothes and shower after exercising. Shower after extended time outside, too.
3. 3Use a mild cleanser and warm rather than hot water. After swimming, rinse off promptly with fresh water and a mild cleanser.
4. 4Apply a fragrance free moisturizer within five minutes of showering if your skin feels dry or irritated.
5. 5Before going outdoors, apply sunscreen with broad spectrum protection, SPF 30 or higher, and water resistance. Choose products labeled noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores.

Wash sweaty clothes, headbands, towels and hats before using them again, because summer laundry has acquired a skincare department. Wear loose, breathable clothing and change sheets regularly to reduce the buildup of sweat, oil and dirt.12

Are all summer bumps acne?

No. Acne can include blackheads, whiteheads and inflamed pimples. Heat rash comes from blocked sweat ducts and typically feels prickly, burning or itchy. Folliculitis, an infection of hair follicles, can look like pimples but tends to be itchy and tender. These clues cannot diagnose the bumps; persistent or worsening eruptions need a dermatologist's assessment.124

Should I stop acne treatments when summer makes my skin irritated?

Summer irritation does not automatically mean you need to abandon acne treatment. Sun, pool water and air conditioning can leave skin dry despite humid weather. If a prescribed retinoid irritates your skin, ask your dermatologist about using less, applying it less often or putting moisturizer on first. Make those changes with their help. Retinoids are often applied in the evening; follow your own directions and protect skin from the sun.25

For mild acne, benzoyl peroxide reduces bacteria, while salicylic acid helps prevent dead skin cells from clogging follicles. Start benzoyl peroxide at the lowest strength and follow the packet; it is usually used once or twice daily. Dryness or peeling can improve with less frequent use. Ask a pharmacist or doctor about troublesome irritation, and only combine it with other acne treatments with their advice.67

Benzoyl peroxide increases sensitivity to sunlight. Acne antibiotics including doxycycline and minocycline can cause sun reactions; check your medication instructions or ask your pharmacist. If you are pregnant, check before using benzoyl peroxide. Stop using it and seek emergency help for throat or tongue swelling or difficulty breathing.27

How long should improvement take?

Acne treatment generally takes at least six to eight weeks to produce fewer breakouts. Benzoyl peroxide usually starts working within four weeks; seek advice if acne worsens or has not improved after 12 weeks. Do not pop pimples. Get help earlier for deep, painful lumps or scarring, and see a dermatologist if your current routine is not controlling the breakouts.1567