How to Prevent Summer Acne, According to a Skin Doctor
While summer brings longer days, sunshine, and plenty of outdoor time, it also comes with a lot of challenges for your skin. Factors like heat, humidity, and sweat, combined with increased sun exposure, can all contribute to stubborn breakouts. If you find your usual skincare routine isn’t enough during these warmer months, you may need to make a few adjustments. That’s why we spoke to Dr. Kaywaan Khan, Advanced Aesthetics Practitioner and Private GP at Harley Street’s Hannah London Clinic, who shares seven expert tips that can help prevent breakouts and keep your skin balanced throughout the summer season.
1. Choose the right SPF formulation
While sun protection is non-negotiable year-round, it’s even more necessary in the summer when UV exposure is at its peak. High UV levels not only lead to premature ageing but can also trigger acne by increasing skin sensitivity and oxidative stress (a process where unstable molecules damage skin cells). Environmental factors, such as humidity and pollution, can also clog the pores leading to more breakouts. Make sure to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF50+ and PA++++ to ensure maximum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Plus, don’t forget to reapply every 2 hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
2. Keep hair off your face and back
Sweat and excess oil can accumulate on your hair, which may then transfer onto the skin when hair brushes against exposed areas like the forehead, shoulders, and back. This can increase the risk of breakouts on these parts of the body, commonly referred to as ‘bacne’. Heat and humidity can also cause hair products such as styling sprays and conditioners to melt more easily, allowing residue to spread onto the skin and congest pores. I advise tying your hair back when outdoors or during sweaty activities such as working out in the gym.
3. Switch to lightweight, non-comedogenic products
As temperatures rise, start opting for lighter formulations. Swap out thicker creams with oil-free gels and water-based serums that provide hydration without creating an occlusive layer on the skin. Using thicker formulas in summer can trap sweat against the skin’s surface, increasing the risk of clogged pores and breakouts. Meanwhile, lightweight formulations absorb quickly and minimise excess build-up on the skin. Look for products labelled ‘non-comedogenic’, meaning they are specifically formulated not to clog pores and are ideal for oily skin types. This helps reduce the risk of pore congestion and keeps your skin clear while still supporting your skin’s barrier.
4. Double cleanse in the evening
Throughout the day, your skin accumulates a build-up of sweat, sunscreen, and makeup. A single cleanse won’t be enough to fully unclog the pores. Double cleansing is a better approach that involves starting with an oil-based cleanser to break down sunscreen and makeup, followed by a gentle cleanser loaded with humectants to remove any remaining residue without drying the skin. This ensures your skin is deeply cleansed while maintaining its natural balance.
5. Wash your pillowcase every 2–3 days
Due to increased perspiration and excess sebum production during the warmer months, your pillowcase can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria. This is why frequent washing is highly recommended to help minimise the transfer of accumulated sweat, oils, and debris onto your skin while you sleep. As well as this, open acne lesions are particularly vulnerable to infection from dirty pillowcases, which can worsen breakouts. I suggest washing your pillowcases at least every 2–3 days as this timeframe helps prevent the buildup of bacteria that can trigger acne, without being too burdensome.
6. Incorporate supplements containing Zinc and Vitamin A
Certain nutrients can help regulate oil production and support skin health from the inside out. Zinc, for example, has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and irritation from breakouts. Vitamin A supports healthy skin cell turnover, preventing clogged pores by encouraging the natural shedding of dead skin cells that can trap oil and bacteria. These nutrients can be especially helpful in summer, when the skin is more exposed to environmental stressors like heat, humidity, and pollution. Always consult your GP or skin specialist before starting new supplements to ensure they’re safe and suitable for your specific needs.
7. Consider professional treatment
For persistent or severe summer breakouts, it’s important to seek professional help. Your GP can prescribe topical or oral medications to target underlying causes. This can include bacterial infection, inflammation, or even hormonal imbalances like PCOS. Additionally, a skin doctor may recommend injectables, such as Botox, to control excessive sweating caused by hyperhidrosis. Other aesthetic procedures, such as chemical peels, can also help with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) caused by acne, reducing scarring and supporting a more even skin texture. Remember to always discuss treatment options with a qualified professional before starting any new therapy.
