Summer Skincare Tips to Prevent Acne Breakouts and Irritation

Sweat, sunscreen, saltwater, and sun are all regulars in the summer time that can change our complexion and cause irritation and breakouts to our skin. But it’s hard to avoid the sun in the summer time; is there a way to avoid the acne and irritation that comes with it? Skincare expert and Rescue Spa Estheticians, Simone Butler, answers some of the most commonly asked questions when it comes to maintaining beautiful, breakout-free skin while still being able to soak up all of the summer fun.

What are the causes of acne breakouts during the summer?

There are a lot of reasons as to why our skin is particularly susceptible to breakouts during the summer months. One main reason is sweat. The constant sweating on the face can lead to clogged pores and oily skin which is a huge catalyst for acne and breakouts. Another main reason that Butler brought to the limelight is “wearing too much SPF.” This one can be confusing because we are supposed to be wearing spf all the time, but in the summer months when we continuously layer it on our faces all day everyday, the sediment from the SPF sitting on our face and not being washed off properly can cause sensitivity and potential breakouts.

What to do to protect the skin from breakouts?

Butler had one simple response to this question and that was, “use Cerabalm.” She explained how this cleansing face balm is the best way to cleasne your skin of oils and debris because it is oil based. 

It takes oil to strip oil, making it the best product for cleaning your face of oily summer spf products, sweat buildup, and other debris that may accumulate on the face throughout the day.

What habits should you avoid?

Butler’s colleague and fellow Rescue Spa Esthetician, Greta Ikonomi, couldn’t help but chime in when presented with this prompt, “Picking pimples!” she exclaimed, “this creates scarring, especially when out in the sun.” Butler nodded in agreement. 

She added a few ideas of her own, “not cleansing thoroughly and efficiently enough can lead to clogged pores and breakouts, but she adds ways to combat these issues as well, “balm cleansers act as a magnet for dirt and oil on the face while still protecting the natural good oils that the surface of our skin needs in order to thrive.” 

Another habit that should be avoided was brought to the forefront by Ikonomi, she explained how, “washing your face in the shower with piping hot water strips the natural skin barrier that prevents bacteria and dirt from penetrating your skin.” She notes that washing your face with warm or lukewarm water prevents irritation and inflammation as the water we shower in is often too hot for the skin on our face and can be detrimental to our complexion.

What ingredients are recommended for acne prone skin during summer months?

What should we be using to prevent acne? According to Butler, “AHA and BHA acids help to keep the pores clean and gently exfoliate the skin.” She adds that other acids, such as salicylic and lactic acids, are also good options. “Lactic acid is really gentle and soothes the skin while preventing breakouts. Glycolic acid is another great ingredient that efficiently prevents breakouts and irritation.”

One excellent product to consider is the D22 Exfoliating Toner, which combines these powerful ingredients to help maintain clear and healthy skin.

 

Whether you spend your summers at the beach or in a cubicle, there is no doubt that the change in climate will have major effects on your skin, but do not worry–there are ways to efficiently and effectively prevent breakouts and irritation while still taking the best care of your skin no matter what season!