When it’s very warm and humid, skin tends to get clammy and oily. Sweat evaporates more slowly because of the humidity levels in the air, and sebaceous glands work overtime due to the heat.
This combination of conditions leads to pores clogging and pimples forming.
Here are some tips to take good care of your skin during hot spells and avoid aggravating your acne.
Cleanse your skin without irritating it
When your skin feels clammy and oily, you may feel tempted to wash it more often. However, increased cleansings can irritate your skin further. Washing your skin in the morning and at night is sufficient. During the day, you can use a facial tissue or oil blotting sheets to gently pat your skin (never rub the skin). Use a cleanser designed for acne-prone skin.
Hydrate your skin even in humid weather
It may seem counterintuitive, but acne-prone skin must remain hydrated even during warm and humid weather. Look for moisturisers that contain ceramides or silicone oil (e.g. dimethicone), and avoid products that contain mineral oil, petroleum jelly, and other types of oil.Easily identify an appropriate product for you by looking for the words “for acne-prone skin” or “non-comedogenic” on the product label, or ask your pharmacist or beauty consultant for advice.
Protect your skin from the sun
Sun exposure causes more skin damage than benefits, even in the case of acne. If you use medication for your acne (tablets or topical), your skin is even more sensitive to the harmful effects of the sun, so it’s important to protect it from UV rays. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and choose a product appropriate for the needs of acne-prone skin. Don’t hesitate to ask your pharmacist for help and information on the treatment of acne!