5 Tips on How to Be Acne Savvy this Summer

5 Tips on How to Be Acne Savvy this Summer
We all long for Summer to arrive since it's a beautiful, fun time of year. But, summertime can also bring oily skin, blackheads and more acne breakouts. So - while using the right acne treatment, remember also to make some adjustments in your skin care and diet so you can keep your skin healthy on those fantastic summer days and nights. 
 

Moisturizing:   Lighten-up on your moisturizer 

We already know that moisturizing is essential for acne prone skin. In the summer, since you will wash your skin even more often to get rid of sweat and outdoor dirt, moisturizing is very important to prevent dry and sensitive skin. But, make sure that you lighten up on the moisturizer of choice. Chose lotion rather than cream (this applies to both the face and body), and READ the labels to choose non-comedogenic and oil-free products. 
 

Washing:  Control oil, but do NOT abuse your skin

Heat and humidity can cause your sebaceous glands to work overtime. Seeing our skin get oily makes us often want to scrub it more vigorously or wash it more often. As the basic routine is to wash your skin twice a day with a mild cleanser (NO harsh SOAPS or products containing harsh ingredients such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide), if your skin gets exceptionally oily, you can do a midday cleansing too. But - do not rub or use harsh products (ex. salicylic acid) as the glands will respond by producing MORE oil - and rubbing may actually irritate the skin and ultimately worsen breakouts. 
 

Showering:  You may need to take an extra shower 

Sweat and dirt can irritate acne. Shower after working out or after you enjoyed being outdoors. Use a mild, moisturizing, oil-free body wash and DO NOT RUB if you get inflamed pimples. You can also help reduce the severity of breakouts and avoid acne mechanica by wearing breathable cotton instead of synthetic fabrics. 
 

Sun protection:  What to use  

Most acne products actually increase your sun sensitivity, and used without heavy sun protection, may cause severe sun damage (all antibiotics, Retin-A products, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide including products will fall under this category). AcnEase is an exception as it does not interfere with or increase your sun sensitivity to sun. Nevertheless, to prevent sun burns and decrease premature aging or the risk of skin cancer, daily use of sunscreen is highly recommended. Choose a non-comedogenic, oil-free sunscreen of at least SPF 15; SPF 30 is even better. Try to opt for natural based products. Using a tinted sunscreen may be a good option as it provides both protection and eliminates the need for foundation. Less is better in the Summer. 
 

Summer Food:  What to avoid 

Summer is also a time for picnics and barbecues. It's great to get together with friends, but remember that beer, some fruits (ex. grapes, mango, leeches and bananas) and greasy, spicy foods may exasperate your acne. Opt for berries and broiled fish with fresh herbs and garlic, green leaves and nut & seed salad and a glass of wine or sparkling water with lemon, lime and a stem of fresh mint instead. 
 

Special Tip for Sensitive Skin

If you have acne prone sensitive skin, avoid using spray perfumes and body splashes; try evening primrose oil - it smells good and is also good for your skin. 
 
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