Sorry to tell you, but 'summer acne' is a thing.
To be fair, an increase in acne and/or random breakouts brought on by warm and humid weather is super common. It can happen to anyone. This is what I've been telling myself during the summer holidays when my kids point at my breakouts and ask, “what’s that Mummy?”
But what actually causes summer skin breakouts and why do pimples seem to multiply in hot weather and humid climates? Here's everything you need to know about summer acne, and how to manage and treat it.
What Is Summer Acne and Why Do I Get Pimples in Hot Weather?
Summer isn't all doom and gloom for our faces - sweat is basically glow, right?
That said, one of the underlying causes of breakouts in the skin is oil production. And what tends to increase as the weather heats up? Our oil production. Bless.
An increase in oil production can also breed bacteria (another major factor when it comes to acne) and let's face it, we’re all likely to sweat more during the summer months.
Lifestyle changes during this time of year, like going back to the fridge for another bite of leftover pavlova or pouring another wine because why the heck not (?!), also play a role in summer acne because alcohol and sugar will affect the health of your gut, and in turn, your skin.
It's nothing to feel guilty about though, more just something to be mindful of.
How to Prevent and Get Rid of Summer Acne.
The first thing to know about summer acne is, it happens. However, here are four simple things you can do to prevent and treat pimples due to hot weather.
1. A Summer Acne Skincare Routine.
Less is definitely more when it comes to skincare in summer (except, of course, your sun protection). In other words, when it's hot and humid, it's not the best time to do a 10-step skincare routine - especially if you have oily or acne-prone skin.
I know this will sound like marketing speak, but as a dermal clinician, I’d advise you swap thick, heavy creams for lightweight lotions and serums in summer.
My favourite summer moisturiser? Aspect Sheer Hydration Oil Free Moisturiser - it has the most beautiful non-comedogenic (non-pore clogging) formula filled with antioxidants. It also gives a slightly mattifying finish, which is great for sweaty faces. And you can use this morning and night - there's no need to spend money on a separate evening moisturiser.
2. Yep, You Still Need to Wear Sunscreen...
If you're someone who doesn't wear sunscreen on your face in summer because you think it'll break you out, look for a lightweight product formulated with ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
Never mind, I found it for you. Ultra Violette Lean Screen SPF50 Sunscreen is a 'physical' or 'mineral' sunscreen formulated sensitive and/or acne-prone skin. It's mattifying, doesn’t cause irritation, dries down easily and most importantly, offers SPF50+ broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection.
You can read our full Lean Screen recap here. Also remember, SPF is only one part of sun protection! Always seek shade, and wear sunnies, a hat and protective clothing. Use sufficient sunscreen for all unprotected areas and reapply sunscreen as directed. Always read the label. You know the drill.
Want to know the truth about sunscreen? Check out our SPF myth-busting YouTube video with Lab Muffin Beauty Science below!
