Beat the heat: Prevent acne and breakouts from sweaty skin with these skincare tips

Summer is here, and the humidity is affecting skin. The accumulating sweat, if not treated well, can contribute to acne formation. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Noopur Jain, chief consultant dermatologist and founder, Skinzest said, “When the sweat produced from the body’s skin gets mixed with skin sebum, dirt, bacteria etc., it leads to skin pores’ clogging and triggers acne.”

The dermatologist further shared a few skincare tips that can help prevent acne and skin breakouts.

Face cleansing is essential:

Gentle face cleansing is a must, but you need to be mindful to not over cleanse the face to strip off its natural sebum. Over washing can trigger breakouts. For face cleansing, use a gentle sulfate free cleanser and practice twice cleansing, morning as well as evening. If you sweat a lot during the day, rinse your face with water and pat it dry instead of scrubbing harshly. Those possessing acne prone skin can choose cleansers consisting of salicylic acid and tea tree oil.

Moisturizer is a must:

It might seem counterintuitive to moisturize oily, sweaty skin, but skipping it can cause your skin to produce even more oil. Opt for a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or aloe vera to keep your skin hydrated without clogging pores.

Be mindful while picking sunscreen:

Sunscreen is essential, but greasy formulas can contribute to breakouts. Look for an oil-free, gel-based, or mattifying sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Ingredients like zinc oxide and niacinamide help prevent acne while protecting your skin from UV damage.

Try to keep sweat at bay:

After sweating, avoid letting it sit on your skin for too long. Use a clean towel or blotting paper to gently pat your skin dry. Change out of sweaty clothes as soon as possible, especially after workouts, to prevent body acne. If you’re prone to breakouts, shower immediately after exercising and use an antibacterial body wash.

Refraining from heavy and rich makeup products:

Sweat and heavy makeup don’t mix well. If you need coverage, choose non-comedogenic, breathable formulas like mineral-based powders or BB creams. Always remove makeup before bed to prevent clogged pores. Also read | Summer skincare essentials: Must-have products for hot months

Limited exfoliation with mild agents:

Sweat can mix with dead skin cells, leading to congestion. Use a mild exfoliant 2-3 times a week to keep your pores clear. Ingredients like salicylic acid and lactic acid help remove buildup without irritating the skin.