Keep spring acne breakouts at bay in Plano TX
As temperatures in Plano TX rise, so does the number of acne patients we see here at DSA Dermatology. They often comment that they were able to avoid acne breakouts all winter long. Much to their frustration, pimples began to appear just as they were gearing up for summer fun.
Has this ever happened to you? Maybe it seems like it happens every year. If so, it’s not a coincidence, nor is it your imagination. Spring and summer in Plano Texas are characterized by hot days, increasingly warm nights, and frequently high humidity – a combination that can trigger acne. Drs. Achtman and McConnell offer a wide variety of advanced acne treatment options, as well as advice to help patients prevent breakouts.
How warm weather triggers acne
When it gets too hot, you turn on the air conditioner – and your body turns on the sweat glands. Although perspiration serves an important function in regulating body temperature, it can wreak havoc with your skin. Sweat can collect dust, dirt, cosmetic residue, and other skin irritants, causing clogged pores. Skin also produces more sebum (oil) during hot weather, exacerbating the problem. As you probably know, clogged, oily pores create a breeding ground for acne-causing bacteria.
Why your skin care routine should change with the seasons
It might be convenient to have go-to products for year-round skin care, but it rarely works well. In winter, we spend more time indoors, exposing skin to irritants such as house dust. Additionally, cold weather is drying. Spring and summer bring outdoor activities (and allergens), increased sun exposure, and oilier skin. It is important to address your skin’s changing needs throughout the year.
When you feel the need to bring out your warm weather wardrobe, it’s time to begin your spring skin care routine. What needs to change?
- Sun protection – This is important in every season, even on cloudy days. However, we usually spend more hours outdoors in spring and summer, which is also when sun is most intense. Use broad spectrum sunscreen, seek shade, and wear protective clothing. In addition to the well-known cancer risks, UV exposure can increase redness and inflammation in acne-prone skin.
- Lighter moisturizers – Unless you have extremely dry skin, you probably don’t need heavy creams in summer, and they can aggravate oily skin. Choose lightweight cosmetics – Avoid heavy formulas that make you sweat worse, and pore-clogging ingredients.
- Heavier cleansers – Winter skin usually needs a mild, hydrating cleansers. Those products might not be strong enough to cut through summer’s oily buildup.
- Exfoliate carefully – As one of the best ways to remove pore-clogging debris from your skin, exfoliation is important during every season. However, over-exfoliating can abrade skin, actually aggravating acne and other conditions. Choose a gentle product, appropriate for your needs.
- Be aware of sensitizing ingredients – Many of the most effective anti-aging and acne-fighting ingredients are photosensitizing, meaning that they make skin more vulnerable to sun damage. These include glycolic acid, retinol, and hydroquinone. If you use photosensitizing products, then you need enhanced sun protection.
- If you hit the gym, hit the shower – Exercise plus hot weather equals sweat, and lots of it. The longer it remains on your skin, the more irritation it causes.
- Wear breathable clothing – Acne mechanica is a type of acne that usually develops where skin is subjected to friction and sweat. Choose lightweight, loose fitting garments and avoid straps or elastic bands that rub.
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Don’t wait to seek treatments
The best time to stop acne is before it starts. If you have recurring breakouts, talk to us about preventive treatments. Our deep pore-cleansing facial can help remove excess oil, dead skin, impurities, and other debris. We also offer a wide variety of skin rejuvenation procedures such as microdermabrasion and chemical peels specific for acne, as well as offering both “red and blue laser” treatments to kill acne bacteria and reduce redness and help skin heal. Additionally, we can help you choose the right products and adjust your skin care routine not only to the weather but also to your skin type and unique needs such as acne cleansers and oil reducing pads to be used at home or on the go.
For acne treatment or preventive care, just give us a call at (972) 362-9567 and schedule an appointment.
