What are solar comedones and how do they differ from regular acne. How can prolonged sun exposure lead to the development of solar comedones. What are the most effective treatments for managing solar comedones and preventing further skin damage.

What Are Solar Comedones and How Do They Differ from Regular Acne?

Solar comedones, often mistaken for regular acne, are a unique skin condition caused by prolonged sun exposure. Unlike typical acne breakouts, solar comedones are non-inflammatory bumps that appear symmetrically on sun-exposed areas of the skin, particularly around the temples and eyes. They can also develop on the neck, earlobes, and forearms.

These skin lesions are also known by several other names:

• Senile comedones
• Sun acne
• Nodular elastosis with cysts and comedones
• Favre-Racouchot syndrome

Solar comedones primarily affect middle-aged and older adults, with approximately 6% of individuals over 50 experiencing this condition. Understanding the key differences between solar comedones and regular acne is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Key Differences Between Solar Comedones and Regular Acne

1. Cause: Solar comedones result from sun damage, while regular acne is typically hormone-driven
2. Appearance: Solar comedones are symmetrical and non-inflammatory, unlike the often inflamed and irregularly distributed regular acne
3. Age group: Solar comedones are more common in older adults, whereas regular acne frequently affects teenagers and young adults
4. Location: Solar comedones appear on sun-exposed areas, while regular acne can occur anywhere on the face and body

The Science Behind Solar Comedones: How Sun Exposure Affects Your Skin

Prolonged sun exposure can have significant effects on the skin, leading to the development of solar comedones. But how exactly does this process occur? The formation of solar comedones is closely linked to the impact of ultraviolet (UV) radiation on the skin’s structure and function.

UV Radiation and Skin Damage

UV radiation from the sun causes various changes in the skin, including:

• Breakdown of collagen and elastin fibers
• Thickening of the stratum corneum (outermost layer of skin)
• Increased production of sebum
• Alterations in skin cell turnover

These changes collectively contribute to the formation of solar comedones. As the skin’s structure is compromised, pores become more susceptible to clogging, leading to the characteristic bumps associated with this condition.

Identifying Solar Comedones: Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of solar comedones is crucial for early detection and treatment. While they may resemble regular acne at first glance, there are several distinguishing features to look out for:

• Small, skin-colored or dark bumps
• Symmetrical distribution on sun-exposed areas
• Non-inflammatory appearance
• Often accompanied by other signs of sun damage, such as wrinkles and discoloration
• Gradual onset over time with continued sun exposure

If you notice these symptoms, especially if you’re over 50 or have a history of significant sun exposure, it’s essential to consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Risk Factors for Developing Solar Comedones: Are You at Risk?

While anyone can develop solar comedones with sufficient sun exposure, certain factors may increase your risk. Understanding these risk factors can help you take preventive measures and seek early treatment if necessary.

Common Risk Factors for Solar Comedones

1. Age: Individuals over 50 are more susceptible
2. Cumulative sun exposure: A history of frequent or prolonged sun exposure increases risk
3. Fair skin: Those with lighter skin tones may be more prone to sun damage
4. Outdoor occupations or hobbies: Jobs or activities that involve significant time outdoors can increase risk
5. Geographic location: Living in areas with high UV index can contribute to increased risk
6. Lack of sun protection: Consistently failing to use sunscreen or protective clothing can lead to higher risk

By identifying your personal risk factors, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin and prevent the development of solar comedones.

Prevention Strategies: Protecting Your Skin from Solar Comedones

Preventing solar comedones is primarily about minimizing sun damage to your skin. By adopting a comprehensive sun protection strategy, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing this condition.

Effective Sun Protection Measures

• Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily
• Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours when outdoors
• Wear protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats and long-sleeved shirts
• Seek shade during peak sun hours (usually 10 am to 4 pm)
• Use UV-blocking sunglasses to protect the delicate skin around your eyes
• Consider using antioxidant-rich skincare products to combat free radical damage

Consistency is key when it comes to sun protection. Make these habits a part of your daily routine to minimize your risk of solar comedones and other forms of sun damage.

Treatment Options for Solar Comedones: From Home Remedies to Professional Interventions

While prevention is ideal, if you’ve already developed solar comedones, there are various treatment options available. The most appropriate approach will depend on the severity of your condition and your individual skin needs.

At-Home Treatments

1. Gentle exfoliation: Use chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid or glycolic acid to help unclog pores
2. Retinoids: Over-the-counter retinol products can help improve skin cell turnover
3. Moisturization: Keep skin hydrated to improve overall skin health
4. Sun protection: Continue using sunscreen and protective measures to prevent further damage

Professional Treatments

• Prescription retinoids: Stronger forms of vitamin A derivatives can be prescribed by a dermatologist
• Chemical peels: Professional-grade peels can help remove damaged skin layers
• Microdermabrasion: This treatment can help exfoliate and improve skin texture
• Laser therapy: Certain laser treatments can target sun damage and improve skin appearance
• Extraction: In some cases, a dermatologist may manually extract stubborn comedones

It’s important to consult with a dermatologist to determine the most effective treatment plan for your specific case of solar comedones.

Long-Term Skin Health: Maintaining Results and Preventing Recurrence

After successfully treating solar comedones, maintaining your results and preventing recurrence is crucial. This involves a combination of ongoing sun protection and a tailored skincare routine.

Tips for Long-Term Skin Health

1. Consistent sun protection: Continue using sunscreen and protective measures daily
2. Regular skin checks: Monitor your skin for any new or changing lesions
3. Healthy lifestyle habits: Maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and avoid smoking
4. Customized skincare routine: Work with a dermatologist to develop a routine that addresses your specific skin needs
5. Professional treatments: Consider periodic professional treatments to maintain skin health

By adopting these long-term strategies, you can help keep your skin healthy and reduce the likelihood of solar comedones recurring.

When to Seek Professional Help: Recognizing the Need for Dermatological Intervention

While many cases of solar comedones can be managed with at-home care and prevention strategies, there are instances where professional help is necessary. Recognizing when to consult a dermatologist is crucial for effective management of this condition.

Signs You Should See a Dermatologist

• Persistent or worsening solar comedones despite at-home treatments
• Development of new or changing skin lesions
• Concerns about other signs of sun damage, such as potential skin cancers
• Desire for more aggressive treatment options
• Need for a comprehensive skin health assessment

A dermatologist can provide expert evaluation, recommend appropriate treatments, and help you develop a personalized plan for long-term skin health. Don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if you’re concerned about solar comedones or any other skin condition.

Understanding solar comedones and their relationship to sun exposure is crucial for maintaining healthy, youthful-looking skin. By implementing effective prevention strategies, seeking appropriate treatment when necessary, and prioritizing long-term skin health, you can minimize the impact of this condition and enjoy clearer, healthier skin at any age. Remember, protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure is not just about preventing solar comedones – it’s an investment in your overall skin health and well-being.

Does Getting More Sun Exposure Help With Acne?

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Chances are you’ve waged war against acne at different times of your life. Although popular wisdom says that acne is only a problem for teenagers, that’s just not the case. Adults also get pimples and sometimes struggle with constant breakouts. While most acne sufferers have tried myriad remedies, using the sun to combat breakouts is not the best way to treat your breakouts. Read on to learn why sun exposure to treat acne is only a temporary solution and how adopting a better skin care routine can help reduce breakouts.

Can the Sun Help with my Acne?

Many people believe sun exposure dries out acne-causing oil, thereby curing breakouts. Additionally, getting a tan can temporarily camouflage the blemishes on your face. While that strategy will work in the short run, exposing your skin to too much sun will eventually backfire, causing more breakouts in the future. Here’s why:

• Flaky skin from a sunburn builds up more dead skin cells that clog pores and cause more breakouts.
• Sun exposure causes unwanted skin inflammation.
• The sun can cause dark spots and scarring to appear after pimples heal.
• Sun exposure puts you at a higher risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging.
• If you’re taking certain medications for acne, your skin can be more sensitive to UV light, making it burn faster.
• Sunbathing leads to sweating, giving bacteria a place to thrive and causing more breakouts.

So, while a little sun exposure can temporarily reduce acne, you should adopt more effective methods to keep your breakouts in check.

Effective Skin Care Routines to Reduce Acne

Acne is usually caused by hormone imbalances. When your hormones are out of balance due to causes such as puberty or pregnancy, your skin’s sebaceous glands overproduce sebum (oil). Excess sebum clogs your pores, giving bacteria a place to thrive causing pimples, and setting off a vicious cycle of breakouts. To learn the root cause of your acne, try the following tips to keep your breakouts under control.

• Wash Your Face: Wash your face at least twice a day with a mild, oil-free foaming cleanser formulated for oily skin. Don’t harshly rub your skin. Pat dry gently with a clean towel. If possible, wash your face immediately after a workout or other athletic activities. Make sure you wash away makeup before bed. Sleeping with makeup clogs pores and makes acne worse.
• Use a Toner: Lightly apply a toner or astringent to your face to remove remaining oil. Don’t overdo it – too much astringent can irritate your skin and cause it to produce even more oil.
• Moisturize: Even acne-prone skin needs a dab of moisturizer to stay in balance. Use only a gentle, oil-free moisturizer and apply sparingly.
• Apply Sunscreen: Your moisturizer might contain sunscreen, but before going outside apply a sunscreen designed for faces that contains at least SPF 30. Reapply every two hours if you’re planning to spend the day outdoors.
• Spot Treat: Experiment with different over-the-counter acne fighting products. The most popular treatments contain benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. Use as directed. Be patient with these products since they can take up to eight weeks to deliver results. If you don’t see any results, see a dermatologist.

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If you have acne that isn’t responding to over-the-counter treatment, make an appointment today with Keys Dermatology. Our office has offered the highest quality of dermatological services delivered with personalized attention for over 25 years.

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Symptoms, Causes, Risks, and Treatment

Comedones are a common type of acne. This term refers to clogged pores, which look like small bumps in the skin.

If the comedones are due to prolonged sun exposure, they’re called solar comedones. But despite the name, these are different from acne.

Solar comedones are noninflammatory and appear symmetrically on your face. They’re typically found along your temple and around your eyes. Sometimes, they can show up on the side of your neck, earlobes, and forearms.

Solar comedones are also known as:

• senile comedones
• sun acne
• nodular elastosis with cysts and comedones
• Favre-Racouchot syndrome

The condition is most common in middle-age and older adults. Approximately 6 percent of adults ages 50 and over have solar comedones.

If you’re curious about solar comedones and what causes them, read on.

Share on PinterestSolar comedones are small skin-colored or dark bumps that appear in areas exposed to sunlight for long periods of time. Dermnet New Zealand.

Though the specific cause of solar comedones is unknown, researchers have determined possible factors.

These include:

Chronic sun exposure

Solar comedones are commonly associated with long-term sun exposure. That’s why they’re often seen in exposed areas of the body, like the sides of your temple.

Chronic sun exposure can happen after many years spent working an outdoor job, like farming. It can also be related to years of frequent sunbathing.

It’s unclear how exactly sunlight causes solar comedones. However, it’s likely due to damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation, a form of energy produced by sunlight.

UV radiation can damage DNA in your skin cells and cause premature skin aging.

The radiation can also damage the elastic tissue in your skin, leading to solar elastosis. This causes thickened, yellowish, and severe wrinkling. It’s often seen with solar comedones.

It’s hypothesized that solar comedones due to sun exposure affect men more frequently than women.

Heavy smoking

Smoking cigarettes for many years can also contribute to solar comedones.

In fact, it can act synergistically with sun exposure. This means the effects of both factors can interact and increase your risk of solar comedones.

There are some theories on how smoking increases your risk.

Cigarette smoke contains harmful chemicals, some of which may damage your skin. The heat from a lit cigarette might also produce radiation.

However, more research is necessary to understand how smoking specifically contributes to solar comedones.

Radiation therapy

A less common cause is radiation therapy. It uses radiation to treat cancer, but it can also damage the skin. In rare cases, this could lead to comedones and other lesions.

Solar comedones related to radiation therapy can develop during or after the treatment. They can show up between 2 weeks and 6 months after therapy is completed.

The comedones can also show up anywhere on the body, but they typically appear on face, neck, and scalp.

If you have solar comedones, you’ll have different types of bumps.

Closed (whiteheads)

Closed comedones, or whiteheads, are plugged pores that have closed over. They look like small white or skin-colored bumps, depending on your skin tone.

Typically, solar comedones start as whiteheads. They eventually turn into open comedones over time.

Open (blackheads)

Open comedones, or blackheads, are clogged pores that aren’t sealed. The top of the pore is open, revealing a black spot.

The black spot isn’t dirt, though. It’s oil that has been exposed to air.

Solar comedones are not cancerous. For most people, they’re more of a cosmetic concern.

However, the main causes of solar comedones have other risks. Chronic sun exposure and cigarette smoking increase the risk of:

• skin cancer
• premature skin aging
• poor immune system function

Smoking cigarettes also increases the risk of:

• heart disease and stroke
• lung diseases
• cancer almost anywhere in the body
• infertility
• poor bone health

So, while solar comedones aren’t directly harmful, their causes are associated with other health issues.

Treatment for solar comedones typically includes a combination of:

• medication
• surgical techniques
• lifestyle changes

Solar comedones extraction

Comedones can be manually removed. Your health provider uses a device called a comedo extractor to squeeze the bumps and unblock your pores.

Although this treatment is effective, the comedones will likely return.

Other surgical techniques

A doctor might use the following treatments instead of extractions:

• dermabrasion
• curettage
• laser resurfacing
• comedone excision

The best option depends on the severity of your comedones.

Topical retinoids

Topical retinoids are medications designed to unclog pores. They exfoliate your skin and promote collagen formation, which can help reduce comedones.

A dermatologist may suggest over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription retinoids.

Topical retinoids can dry out the skin, so it’s important to avoid using too much too soon. It’s recommended to apply a light moisturizer after using a retinoid.

Decreasing the frequency of retinoid application may make it more tolerable for your skin.

Lifestyle changes

You’ll also be asked to make several lifestyle changes to slow down the formation of solar comedones.

This includes:

• avoiding the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. or wearing a hat if you do need to go outdoors
• applying broad-spectrum sunscreen (at least SPF 30)
• quitting smoking, if you smoke (this is often difficult, but a doctor can help craft a plan that works for you)

Solar comedones are often related to prolonged sun exposure or cigarette smoking. In some people, they’re caused by radiation therapy.

These comedones include whiteheads and blackheads, but they’re not inflamed — unlike the comedones seen in regular acne.

The comedones can be treated with topical retinoids and extraction. However, it’s still important to cut back on sun exposure and cigarette smoking to prevent more comedones from forming.

3 reasons and what to do if sprinkled with acne

Dreamed of smooth and radiant skin, but got a face strewn with pimples? This is not such a rare surprise after peeling. Let’s talk about the reasons for such injustice and how to avoid it.

4 minutes

Updated:
05/25/2022

Alina Kharaz
Author

Maria Nevskaya
Dermatologist

Contents

• Why Pimples Appear After Peeling
• Acne after peeling: what to do
• Pimple Prevention
• Skin care after peeling

Why pimples appear after peeling

Paradoxically, it is true that peeling is one of the most popular methods of fighting acne. Without regular exfoliation, according to cosmetologists, it is quite difficult to cope with the problem of acne. Removal of the upper layers of the epidermis cleanses the pores of sebum and dead cells, which create a breeding ground for opportunistic bacteria.

Why then do acne occur? The reasons are conditionally divided into three large groups.

Violation of the rules for peeling

The procedure violates the integrity of the skin. Therefore, strict adherence to the rules of antiseptics during peeling is necessary. Also:

• careful selection of peels;

• compliance with the procedure protocol;

• compliance with the rules of skin care after peeling.

Preparation for peeling, care after it, the procedure itself – all this requires a very serious attitude from both the patient and the cosmetologist. © Getty Images

Our behavior

Alas, some of us act frivolously.

• They touch the defenseless skin after peeling with their hands – not always clean.

• Self-tear off scales.

• Improper care of the face. For example, they clean it with aggressive lotions or use inappropriate creams.

• Violate post-peel rules of conduct. Under the ban – a bath and a sauna, a pool with its chlorinated water, sports loads “up to a seventh sweat”, going outside without sunscreen.

Touching your face with your hands, especially if they have not just been washed, is in principle a very bad habit. And after peeling, this is a completely right way to such a complication as acne. © Getty Images

Individual characteristics of the organism

Possible force majeure in the form of:

• allergic reactions to drug components;

• 90,004 undiagnosed diseases that, with a decrease in immunity (and peeling is still stressful for the skin and the body), can manifest themselves, for example, problems with the intestines, latent infections;

• hormonal fluctuations, manifested by inflammatory reactions.

“Peeling should not be treated as a simple procedure,” warns Ekaterina Turubara, Vichy brand expert. – It is prohibited for any existing skin damage: abrasions, scratches and cuts, squeezed pimples. The presence of various rashes caused by allergies, eczema, herpes, etc. (with the exception of comedones and acne) is also a reason to refuse the procedure. The exception is already healed and formed scars and scars – they may become less noticeable after a peeling course.

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Acne after peeling: what to do

There is only one answer: do not engage in amateur activities, but make an appointment with a dermatologist.

• The doctor will understand the causes of acne.

• Prescribe appropriate treatment.

• Adjusts skin care rules.

Pimples after peeling may indicate a latent infection, so the doctor may even prescribe an antibiotic. © Getty Images

Even if the face itches and itches, it is strictly forbidden:

All this can increase inflammation, lead to scars and pits, which are difficult to get rid of later.

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Pimple Prevention

Let us remind you that acne formation after the peeling procedure is not a side effect, but the result of non-compliance with the rules during the procedure, as well as incorrect post-peeling care.

To reduce the risk of trouble, follow these simple tips:

• do peeling only in the clinic with a beautician;

• do not touch your face with your hands after the procedure;

• take proper care of your skin: wash your face with thermal water, apply soft soothing, moisturizing and regenerating creams;

• follow the post-peeling regimen: refrain from visiting the bath and pool, excessive physical exertion;

• go outside only “under cover” of sunscreens with SPF 50.

The peeling frequency is determined by the specialist.

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Skin care after peeling

We warn you right away: if acne has already appeared, only a dermatologist or cosmetologist will help you choose the care. And in our review – a list of remedies for those who do not suffer from acne yet.

Moisturizing rich cream for dry and very dry skin Aqualia Thermal, Vichy – This comfortable “isotonic cocktail” includes vegetable sugars from maple, birch and beech wood and hyaluronic acid. The skin is restored, soothed, hydrated for 48 hours. Recommended for use in the morning and evening.

Effaclar H Iso-Biome, La Roche-Posay multi-repairing treatment for skin irritated by overdrying agents, apply morning and evening to cleansed skin. Lipids, vitamins B3 and E work on the restoration and protection of the epidermis, as well as the elimination of inflammation.

Hydrating B5 Masque, SkinCeuticals maintains moisture balance and healthy looking skin thanks to a rich composition that includes hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, components of natural moisturizing factor. Use 1-2 times a week.

Aquasource Moisturizing Face Cream, Biotherm attracts moisture and stores it inside, smoothing the skin. The effect is provided by the extract of thermal plankton. Suitable for normal to combination skin, apply in the morning to protect against environmental aggressors and in the evening to restore.

Ultra Facial Cream, Kiehl’s Moisturizing Face Cream – Squalane, derived from olive oil, and antarcticin, an antioxidant glycoprotein, provide comfort, balance and fullness to the skin. Recommended for use in the morning and evening.

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The Ordinary Blood Peel AHA 30% + BHA 2% full review

The Ordinary Blood Peel AHA 30% + BHA 2% full review

AHA 30% + BHA 2% peeling solution is one of The Ordinary’s most powerful acid peels. It is so popular that it is very difficult to buy it – it is taken apart in 2-3 hours if it appears on large sites.

Even the restrictions “no more than 2 pieces in one hand” do not help to contain demand. At the same time, Ordinari does not spend a single cent on advertising red peeling AHA 30% + BHA 2%. The secret of its popularity is its effectiveness and pleasant price, because of which the Internet is filled with a flurry of positive reviews!

The Ordinary blood peel contains 4 types of acids: salicylic, glycolic, tartaric and lactic, each of which has a different effect.

Glycolic acid is the most concentrated in the product, it belongs to the AHA acids that work on the surface of the skin, even out the relief and tone and exfoliate dead skin cells. BHA-acid (salicylic), on the contrary, is able to penetrate deep into the pores and cleanse them.

ACID ACTION

AHA 30% + BHA 2% peeling solution is suitable not only for the face, but also for the back, forearms and décolleté. It will help get rid of rashes and follicular hyperkeratosis in these areas.

Also contains aloe vera juice, Tasmanian mountain pepper fruit and leaf extract, black carrot extract, hyaluronic acid crosspolymer and provitamin B5 to eliminate acid irritation and speed up skin repair.

Buy peeling

FOR

Great for those with insensitive oily, combination or normal skin that is familiar with acid treatments and responds well to it.

If you have dry/sensitive skin or haven’t tried acids yet, we advise you to pay attention to milk peels Lactic Acid 5% + HA and Lactic Acid 10% + HA and Mandelic Acid almond peel 10% + HA. They gently exfoliate, retaining moisture without damaging the skin.

HOW TO USE

Making a patch test. We apply peeling on the inner bend of the elbow, wait 10 minutes and make sure that there is no allergic reaction

Before peeling, you need to clean the skin, if desired, you can also steam it for a greater effect (with special masks or steam baths)

Apply to dry skin without touching the face with the dropper. It is best to order a professional brush for applying peels and masks. For the first time, it is better to apply a thin pinkish layer. The skin may tingle and tingle a little. If it stings very strongly, it is better to wash it off ahead of time.

Keep exactly 10 minutes, for the first times you can reduce the time to 5-7 minutes

WHERE TO APPLY. SECRET HACKS

A huge plus of peeling is that its area of ​​application is not limited to the face! Happy owners of red peeling apply it on problem areas throughout the body from the neckline to the knees .

WHAT NOT TO DO

Never sunbathe or apply peeling before traveling to equatorial countries!

Blood peeling effectively fights acne and hyperkeratosis (goose bumps) in any areas. Whitens dark spots in the armpits, groin, elbows and knees. Gives a good anti-aging effect on the neck and décolleté. The time and method of application does not differ from the use of the product on the face!

Do not use more than 2 times a week

Do not leave it overnight (yes, they do on TikTok, but peeling is not intended for this)

If possible, use the product before bedtime and refrain from following days from “heavy, aggressive cosmetics

Do not use immediately (before / after) retinol and vitamin C

skin and bypass acne foci (do not apply peeling on them)!If you peel on a pimple, there is a chance to damage the “lid” of the pustule and spread the infection all over your face.