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Although there are many factors that can contribute to acne, little do many know that where you live not only contributes to skin problems, but it requires a personalized skincare regimen.
Depending on where you live, there are some important steps that you can take to greatly improve your skin's health. But in general, no matter where you live, it is imperative to learn how to really clean acne prone skin without chemicals and how to moisturize acne prone skin if you want clear skin for good.
Endless summers seem to be almost everyone's dream, but the truth is that it can take a toll on skin and hair. More sweat, more frequent exposure to outdoor pollutants, extreme humidity or dirt and dust carried by frequent winds may actually increase acne by the fact that more clogged pores provide a more fertile ground for bacteria, and with it, an increased chance for inflammation that presents itself as acne (pimples, "zits", cysts, blackheads, and whiteheads).
Even though acne is a manifestation of an internal imbalance that leads to the overproduction of sebum (skin oil) by the sebaceous glands, and is NOT CAUSED by climate, the above listed environmental factors can add to the clogged pores and with that increase the frequency and/or severity of the symptoms.
Also note that in a hot climate, you usually wash your hair more often. Shampoos and conditioners containing panthenol, an ingredient that nourishes and strengthens the hair, might also worsen the problem. This is because when the product is rinsed out of the hair, it can clog pores contributing to acne.
Last but not least, an "endless summer" means more sun. Most of the products used to control acne including antibiotics, retinoids and all those using salicylic acid or peroxide can increase sun sensitivity. So if you use any of them, you need to avoid sun exposure as much as possible.
The cold and wind outdoors, along with the heat from indoors, dry the skin. Dry, flakey skin may actually exasperate acne as dead skin cells clog the pores and invite bacteria. Additionally, if the skin is too dry, it will produce more oil, which is not good for acne skin. Therefore, moisturizing in this instance is key. Here are some of the most effective ways to moisturize acne prone skin.
A good rule of thumb too is to add moisture to the air indoors. Learn more on How to Care for Your Skin in Colder Climates.
At last - some food for thought. Different regions pride themselves with some signature diets. Unfortunately delicious fried foods of the South and spicy creations of Louisiana or New Mexico, and the red meat focused feast of Texas are not skin friendly and may again exasperate acne.
So remember- as home is always sweet home- it may have a few features that are not skin friendly and while we all want clear skin, we may have to do different things to get it depending on where the home is - but it can happen, and we've helped hundreds of thousands to do just that!