June is Acne Awareness Month, which is coinciding with an increase of patients coming to our practice with concerns about acne. Acne begins with a buildup of dead skin cells and oil (sebum) trapped inside a pore that forms a plug blocking the opening, creating an environment that allows P. acnes bacterial to multiply. Although many consider acne to be a problem for teens, acne occurs in males and females of all ages and can occur on the face as well as back, chest, and other truncal areas of the body.

Summer has officially started, and heat and humidity intensify oil production, which clogs pores with dirt and debris. People tend to sweat more in the summer, and that sweat then sits on your skin, mixing with all the sticky grime to create the perfect environment for acne-causing bacteria to grow. Also, in summer, due primarily to sweating, people tend to touch their faces more and wipe areas of sweat, both of which exacerbate the potential for acne to appear.

We are seeing a new acne occurrence in this time of COVID19, called “maskne,” which is a result of wearing masks causing sweating and irritation of the skin. Maskne affects individuals with or without other areas of breakout. The irritation to your skin barrier from mask-wearing can be remedied through the use of specific products to cleanse, moisturize, and treat the inflamed skin.

Although it may seem counter-intuitive to use a moisturizer when your skin is producing excess oil that can lead to acne, it is essential to maintain a healthy skin barrier with high-quality moisturizers. A lightweight moisturizer that contains ceramides, hyaluronic acid (HA), or niacinamide can be beneficial, especially for those with acne-prone skin.

Sunscreen is also a critical component in summer skincare. To help prevent acne flare-ups, using an oil- free mineral-based sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium oxide is your best protection from the sun.

To learn how to control and treat your summer acne issues, a consultation with a Licensed Medical Aesthetician or Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist is the best way to determine the specific products and routine to address your particular skin condition. Our clinical providers are available for virtual skincare consultations or in-person visits. We have a variety of very effective products and skincare services to help with acne. Your summer does not need to be plagued with uncontrolled acne breakouts!