Did you know that the summer months are more difficult for those who suffer with acne? According to a study published by The Journal of Dermatology, the majority of patients said their acne is worse when temperatures rise. Why? The summer heat, sweat and humidity all work to increase oil production in the skin. This is probably why June is recognized as Acne Awareness Month.
Acne is the most common skin problem in the country. It often begins in puberty but can also affect adults in their 20s, 30s, 40s and even into the 50s. Most acne appears on the face, but it can also show up on the shoulders, upper arms, chest, neck and back. Untreated acne can be emotionally damaging, especially for teens, and can lead to scarring.
Common Causes of Acne
Nearly 85 percent of all people get acne at some point in their lives; and by the mid-teen years, more than 40 percent of teens have acne or acne scarring. Below are the most common causes of acne:
- Overproduction of oil by enlarged oil glands in the skin
- Blockage of the hair follicles that release oil
- Growth of bacteria called acnes within the hair follicles
- Pores clogged with dead skin cells
- Bacteria causing inflammation within pores
- Environmental factors, such as humidity, that cause skin swelling
- Medications
- Genetic factors
- Hormonal changes
Tips for Managing Acne in the Summer
There are things you can do to help reduce the occurrence of breakouts during the summer months. Here are a few:
- Wear sunscreen. Many acne medications make the skin more sun-sensitive. That’s why it’s important to up your sunscreen game in the summer. Be sure you are using a sunscreen with SPF of at least 30. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before you plan to be in the sun and every 90 minutes while you are out in the sun. Reapply after swimming.
- Eat fresh fruit and stay hydrated. Fruits like berries are rich in antioxidants that help the skin heal and melons like cantaloupe help stimulate collagen growth in your skin. Be sure to drink eight glasses of water daily to keep your body and skin well hydrated.
- Skip heavy makeup foundation. Heavy foundation can block pores. Keep your makeup simple during the hot days of summer.
- Be consistent with your acne treatment program. Even if your acne improves, do not stop your treatment program. This will help prevent future breakouts.
Treatment for Acne
While acne is not curable, your Water’s Edge dermatologist can create a treatment plan that helps control and prevent breakouts. Treatment options include:
- Topical prescriptions
- Acne surgery
- Microdermabrasion
- Oral antibiotics or birth control pills
- Photodynamic therapy
In honor of Acne Awareness Month, Water’s Edge is offering our Teen Clear Skin Treatment for a special price of $90 in June. If you or a teen you know is suffering from acne, purchase them the Teen Clear Skin Treatment today. It is a non-prescription product that promotes clearer skin and helps prevent future breakouts.
