Heat, Humidity, and Acne: Why Summer Is a Breakout Season

Sweaty skin, oily pores, and relentless sun can make summer a frustrating time for anyone with acne-prone skin. Hot, humid weather doesn’t just make you uncomfortable — it creates the perfect storm for clogged pores and breakouts.

At Harris Dermatology in Fort Myers, FL, our team of board-certified dermatologists understands the seasonal skin challenges that patients face. With advanced training and years of clinical experience, our specialists offer targeted treatment options for many skin issues, including reducing acne breakouts and inflammation, resulting in smoother, clearer skin.

How Heat and Humidity Affect Acne-Prone Skin

When temperatures rise, your skin produces more sweat and oil. This excess moisture combines with bacteria and dead skin cells, clogging pores and leading to inflammation. Summer also increases sun exposure, which can irritate the skin and worsen breakouts.

Key reasons for breakouts increase in hot weather include:

• Excess sweat production: Sweat mixes with oil and dirt, clogging pores.
• More oil secretion: Humidity triggers the sebaceous glands to become more active.
• Increased sun exposure: UV rays can inflame the skin and exacerbate acne.
• Use of thick sunscreen and cosmetics: Some products trap sweat and oil on the skin.

Together, these factors make summer breakouts more frequent and stubborn. Managing them effectively starts with understanding what your skin is up against.

Summer Habits That Worsen Acne

Sometimes, your daily routine may unintentionally contribute to acne flare-ups. If you notice more breakouts in the summer, it might be time to rethink some common habits, including:

• Wearing tight, non-breathable clothing that traps sweat on the skin.
• Skipping post-sweat cleansing, especially after workouts or outdoor activities.
• Overwashing your face strips your skin of its natural oils, irritating it.
• Sleeping with makeup on prevents your pores from breathing overnight.

Breaking these habits and adjusting your skincare routine can significantly reduce the appearance of summer acne. 

Effective Acne Treatments for Summer Skin

The right acne treatment can help you maintain clearer skin, even during hot, humid weather. The dermatologists at Harris Dermatology may recommend the following options:

• Topical treatments: Prescription-strength creams and ointments with retinoic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or azelaic acid.
• Oral medications: Antibiotics to reduce inflammation and bacteria, or isotretinoin for more severe cases.
• Hormonal treatment: Oral contraceptives may be prescribed to manage acne linked to hormonal fluctuations in women.
• Scar revision procedures: Dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, or laser therapy to improve skin texture and reduce visible acne scars.

These treatments are selected based on your skin condition and acne severity. While it may take up to 8 weeks to see full improvement, many patients experience noticeable results over time.

Clear Your Skin With Summer-Ready Care

Breakouts shouldn’t hold you back from enjoying the sunshine. Call us today at 239-936-3344 to schedule your personalized acne treatment plan.