Acne during summer: Why the heat causes skin issues and how to manage it according to a dermatologist

Acne occurs as a result of excessive release of the fatty substance sebum and blockage of the ducts with superadded infection. If there is only blockage of the sebaceous glands, then it results in the formation of the whiteheads and blackheads. When there is a superadded infection, it results in the formation of papules and pustules and severe cases of nodules and cyst.

Acne is a multifactorial disease and depends on several factors like genetic predisposition, endocrine factors, hormonal factors, age, diet and many other factors including environmental factors. In places where summer is hot and humid, the intense UVR(ultraviolet radiation) can trigger inflammatory acne flare-up. This is one of the major environmental factors that lead to acne especially during summers. Both UVB and UVA have been reported to cause an increase in the size of the sebaceous gland, thickening of the stratum corneum, increase in sebum secretion and in the number of comedones. 

So primarily acne is caused because of several factors which are

This acne is called acne Tropicana, acne Majorca or tropical acne.

It's important to rule out hormonal causes, diet, and genetic predisposition. Treating acne should have a combined treatment approach. A good skincare plan and also some clinic treatments would help to clean the sebaceous glands and prevent acne and acne marks. 

If hormonal causes are ruled out then a good skincare plan in summer can keep the acne at bay. 

A good skincare plan would depend on the skin type

A) Oily skin with acne 

B) Dry skin with Acne 

Sometimes in summer, dry skin could even break out as the clogging up of the skin and excessive moisturizing of the skin could result in acne. 

So the skincare plan for dry skin is quite complex and requires a consultation with a dermatologist as one has to start slow and use gentle face wash and scrubs which would help to clean the oil gland without over-drying the skin. One could shift to a more non-comedogenic barrier repair cream as opposed to a moisturiser with shea butter as it could clog the pores. Also, one can choose active ingredients for acne like azelaic acid which could be liposomal and remember to stay away from benzoyl peroxide as it could be very drying and irritating. Even newer acne patches can be applied only on the affected area and could remain for over 12 hours. These acne patches with hydrocolloid dressing increase the effectiveness of the active ingredient in reducing the active acne effectively without irritating the surrounding skin.

So, treating acne with a good skincare plan is very effective. Sometimes if there is active inflammation and too many whiteheads and blackheads then it is difficult for the creams to penetrate for it to be effective, so consulting with a dermatologist and in-clinic treatments like chemical peels, lasers or micro-needling works well.

About the author: Dr. Batul Patel, medical director, and Dermatologist, The Bombay Skin Clinic

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