Acne Awareness Month: Part II

Summer brings more sun exposure and higher levels of physical activity, two things that can ultimately lead to more breakouts. Sun can dry out the skin, causing more oil production that may clog pores and lead to breakouts. Sweaty and tight sports equipment and clothing provide an ideal environment for acne to thrive, causing acne mechanica. But don’t let these things interfere with your activities; instead, try a few of these recommendations.

BEFORE AND DURING YOUR ACTIVITIES:

• Remove your make-up and apply an oil-free sunscreen, with spf 30 or higher, water resistant and broad-spectrum activity

• Wear clean, moisture-wicking clothing. Looser clothing is more suitable for preventing heat and sweat from getting trapped on your skin.

• To prevent your skin from becoming irritated, place clean, soft padding between the equipment and your skin

AFTER YOUR WORKOUT OR ACTIVITY:

• If you can shower immediately afterwards, this is ideal

• Use a mild, oil-free cleanser and avoid rubbing, hot water, or anything else that irritates your skin

• If you aren’t able to shower, consider changing out of your workout clothes

• Wipe skin that tends to break out with an acne treatment that contains salicylic acid. This can prevent clogged pores.

One of my hero products containing salicylic acid is Odacite’s BLUE AURA Turmeric + Holy Basil Micellar Cleansing Water. This no-rinse cleanser is not your standard micellar water, in fact it contains 100% actives, selected for their ability to protect skin from skin-damaging free radicals and the cascade that can cause breakouts, blackheads and contribute to premature signs of aging. I recommend keeping a small spritzer bottle of it in your cooler, ready for a quick and refreshing spray around your hairline after removing your hat or sun visor.