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Pimples on face due to heat. Effective Strategies to Combat Summer Acne: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention

by alexxlab

What causes summer acne outbreaks. How can you effectively treat and prevent pimples caused by heat. Which home remedies and lifestyle changes can help manage acne-prone skin in summer. What professional treatments are available for severe cases of summer acne.

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Understanding the Root Causes of Summer Acne

Summer acne is a common skin concern that affects many individuals during the warmer months. The primary culprit behind this seasonal outbreak is often the increased heat and humidity. Dr. Navin Taneja of The National Skin Center explains, “Oil-producing sebaceous glands become overactive in summer due to heat triggering blockage of skin pores. This results in the trapping of oil within these pores. Naturally, the body’s immune system tries to get rid itself of this foreign substance, which causes inflammation and redness.”

However, it’s important to note that acne isn’t always solely heat-related. For some individuals, particularly women, acne can be a symptom of underlying hormonal conditions. Dr. Rita Bakshi, a gynecologist at the International Fertility Centre, points out, “The sudden spike in testosterone and progesterone hormone, just before menstruation stimulates the production of sebum. The skin swells and pores are shut, causing further sebum build up. Higher hormonal levels also activate the sebaceous glands, producing more sebum and thereby acne outbreaks occur.”

Tackling Back and Shoulder Acne: Unique Challenges and Solutions

While facial acne is often the primary concern, summer can also bring about stubborn acne on the back and shoulders. Dr. Seema Malik of Eleganza notes, “The skin on the back is tougher and has more oil-producing sebaceous glands, which are larger than similar glands on the face. These glands are hyper active in summer, and hence back and shoulders acne is larger and severe.”

To combat this issue, Dr. Malik suggests several strategies:

  • Use frozen rose water ice cubes to soothe affected areas
  • Thoroughly remove makeup from face and shoulders
  • Avoid scratching or excessive scrubbing
  • Choose makeup products labeled ‘non-comedogenic’

Professional Treatments for Severe Acne Cases

For individuals dealing with severe acne outbreaks, seeking professional help may be necessary. Dr. Taneja outlines several treatment options:

  1. Short course of oral antibiotics to reduce bacteria and fight inflammation
  2. Isotretinoin for deep cysts (under strict medical supervision)
  3. Oral contraceptives to balance hormones (consider potential side effects)
  4. Advanced corrective treatments such as laser and light therapies

Laser treatments work by damaging oil glands, reducing sebum production, while light therapy targets acne-causing bacteria. These options can be particularly effective for those willing to invest in more intensive treatments.

The Role of Exercise in Managing Acne-Prone Skin

Regular physical activity can play a significant role in controlling acne by regulating hormone levels. Dr. Anju Ghei of VLCC Healthcare recommends, “A 30-45 minute long brisk walk or slow jog several times a week may help reduce acne by normalising the hormones that contribute to those ugly bumps and pustules.”

Exercise helps in multiple ways:

  • Tames testosterone levels, which can lead to excess sebum production
  • Reduces cortisol (stress hormone) levels, which are linked to acne
  • Improves overall skin health through increased blood circulation

Recommended Exercises for Acne-Prone Skin

  • Outdoor activities like walking, jogging, or cycling for fresh air and moderate sun exposure
  • Swimming, which keeps the skin hydrated
  • Yoga or Pilates for stress reduction and hormonal balance
  • Deep breathing exercises to interrupt stress responses

Stress Management Techniques for Clearer Skin

Stress is a known contributor to acne outbreaks. Implementing stress-reduction techniques can significantly improve skin health. Here are some effective methods:

  1. Deep breathing exercises: Practice slow, deep breaths to interrupt stress responses
  2. Neck and shoulder relaxation: Perform gentle neck rotations to release tension
  3. Mindfulness meditation: Regular practice can help reduce overall stress levels
  4. Adequate sleep: Ensure 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night to regulate stress hormones

Natural Home Remedies for Summer Acne Relief

While professional treatments are effective, many individuals prefer to start with natural home remedies. These can be particularly useful for mild to moderate acne cases:

Cucumber Treatment

Cucumber is an excellent natural remedy for acne-prone skin. Its cooling effect soothes inflammation and acts as a natural astringent. To use:

  1. Slice a fresh cucumber thinly
  2. Apply slices directly to affected areas
  3. Leave on for 15-20 minutes
  4. Rinse with cool water

Tea Tree Oil Solution

Tea tree oil has potent antibacterial properties that can help combat acne-causing bacteria. To use:

  1. Dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil (e.g., jojoba oil)
  2. Apply the mixture to affected areas using a cotton swab
  3. Leave on overnight
  4. Rinse in the morning

Always perform a patch test before applying tea tree oil to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions.

Dietary Considerations for Acne-Prone Skin

While the link between diet and acne is still being studied, many dermatologists believe that certain dietary choices can influence skin health. Consider incorporating these habits:

  • Increase intake of omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts)
  • Consume more antioxidant-rich foods (berries, leafy greens, and green tea)
  • Reduce consumption of high-glycemic foods (sugary snacks and refined carbohydrates)
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day

Essential Skincare Routine for Acne-Prone Skin in Summer

Maintaining a consistent skincare routine is crucial for managing acne-prone skin, especially during summer months. Here’s a recommended routine:

  1. Cleanse: Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser twice daily
  2. Tone: Apply an alcohol-free toner to balance skin pH
  3. Treat: Use spot treatments containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide
  4. Moisturize: Choose a light, oil-free moisturizer
  5. Protect: Apply a broad-spectrum, non-comedogenic sunscreen daily

Remember to be gentle with your skin and avoid over-cleansing or harsh scrubbing, which can exacerbate acne.

The Impact of Humidity on Acne-Prone Skin

High humidity levels during summer can significantly affect acne-prone skin. Here’s how humidity influences acne and what you can do about it:

How Humidity Affects Skin

  • Increases sweat production, leading to clogged pores
  • Creates an environment conducive to bacteria growth
  • Can cause skin to produce more oil to compensate for moisture loss

Managing Acne in Humid Conditions

  1. Use oil-absorbing sheets throughout the day
  2. Opt for gel-based or water-based moisturizers
  3. Consider using a dehumidifier in your living space
  4. Change and wash sweat-soaked clothes promptly

The Role of Sun Exposure in Acne Management

While some believe that sun exposure can help clear acne, the relationship between sunlight and acne is complex. Here’s what you need to know:

Potential Benefits of Controlled Sun Exposure

  • May have a mild anti-inflammatory effect on the skin
  • Can help dry out excess oil
  • Promotes vitamin D production, which is beneficial for overall skin health

Risks of Excessive Sun Exposure

  • Can lead to increased oil production as skin tries to protect itself
  • May cause hyperpigmentation of acne scars
  • Increases risk of skin cancer and premature aging

The key is moderation. Aim for short periods of sun exposure (10-15 minutes) early in the morning or late afternoon, and always use a non-comedogenic sunscreen.

Innovative Acne-Fighting Technologies

As research in dermatology advances, new technologies are emerging to combat acne. Here are some cutting-edge treatments to consider:

Blue Light Therapy

This non-invasive treatment uses light in the blue wavelength spectrum to kill acne-causing bacteria. It’s particularly effective for mild to moderate acne and can be done at home with handheld devices or in a dermatologist’s office.

Microneedling with Radiofrequency

This treatment combines microneedling (creating tiny punctures in the skin) with radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production and reduce oil gland activity. It’s effective for both active acne and acne scars.

Nanoparticle-Based Treatments

Researchers are developing nanoparticle-based treatments that can deliver acne-fighting ingredients deeper into the skin for more effective results. These treatments are still in the experimental stage but show promising results.

The Psychological Impact of Summer Acne

While the physical symptoms of acne are well-documented, it’s crucial to address the psychological impact of summer acne outbreaks. Many individuals experience:

  • Decreased self-esteem and confidence
  • Social anxiety and avoidance of social situations
  • Depression and mood swings
  • Body dysmorphic tendencies

It’s important to seek support if acne is significantly impacting your mental health. Consider these strategies:

  1. Speak with a therapist or counselor about your concerns
  2. Join support groups for individuals with acne
  3. Practice positive self-talk and affirmations
  4. Focus on overall health and well-being, not just skin appearance

Remember, acne is a common condition that affects millions of people. Your worth is not determined by the state of your skin.

Long-Term Strategies for Acne-Free Summers

While immediate treatments are important, developing a long-term strategy for managing acne-prone skin can lead to lasting improvements. Consider these approaches:

Year-Round Skincare Routine

Maintain a consistent skincare routine throughout the year, adjusting products as needed for seasonal changes. This helps keep your skin balanced and less prone to sudden outbreaks.

Regular Dermatologist Check-Ups

Schedule regular appointments with a dermatologist, even when your skin is clear. They can help you stay ahead of potential outbreaks and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

Lifestyle Modifications

Make long-term lifestyle changes that support skin health:

  • Maintain a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and low in processed foods
  • Establish a regular exercise routine
  • Prioritize stress management and adequate sleep
  • Stay hydrated year-round

Hormonal Management

For those with hormone-related acne, work with an endocrinologist or gynecologist to develop a long-term hormonal management plan. This may include hormonal therapies or lifestyle adjustments to balance hormone levels.

By implementing these strategies and maintaining consistency in your skincare approach, you can work towards achieving clearer, healthier skin not just during summer, but throughout the year. Remember, everyone’s skin is unique, so it may take time to find the perfect combination of treatments and lifestyle changes that work best for you. Stay patient, persistent, and kind to yourself throughout the process.

Get rid of Summer acne

Tired of photo correcting your images at your friend’s wedding or the summer pool party you recently attended, just to hide those ugly acne marks? Why not address the problem from the core, instead of going for cosmetic touch-ups. Summer is indeed the time when acne attacks almost with a vengeance, be it on your face or back. So this season needs special attention and care to ward of the woes.

Heat tends to aggravate acne causing inflammation or zits. “Oil-producing sebaceous glands become overactive in summer due to heat triggering blockage of skin pores. This results in the trapping of oil within these pores. Naturally, the body’s immune system tries to get rid itself of this foreign substance, which causes inflammation and redness,” says Dr Navin Taneja of The National Skin Center.

Acne can also be a symptom of an underlying hormonal condition, and hence such outbreaks may not be limited to summer, especially for women. Outbreaks around the menstrual cycle aren’t uncommon for a woman.

“The sudden spike in testosterone and progesterone hormone, just before menstruation stimulates the production of sebum. The skin swells and pores are shut, causing further sebum build up. Higher hormonal levels also activate the sebaceous glands, producing more sebum and thereby acne outbreaks occur,” says gynaecologist Dr Rita Bakshi of International Fertility Centre.

Special care to keep back and shoulder acne at bay
Acne on the back and shoulders is very common in summer and very difficult to treat as well. “The skin on the back is tougher and has more oil-producing sebaceous glands, which are larger than similar glands on the face. These glands are hyper active in summer, and hence back and shoulders acne is larger and severe,” says Dr Seema Malik of Eleganza. “Freeze rose water to make ice cubes and rub them repeatedly over the acne affected areas. The healing properties of rose water will soothe your skin. Always remove any kind of makeup from face or shoulder properly. Do not scratch, and avoid scrubbing as that’ll spread it further. Check the ‘non Comedogenic’ label on your makeup products,” advises Dr Malik.

Seek expert help for severe acne
A short course of oral antibiotics may be needed to treat severe acne, so it’s better to see a doctor. “Antibiotics will reduce bacteria and fight inflammation. However, for deep cysts, Isotretinoin, a powerful medication may be needed but strictly under a doctor’s guidance. Oral contraceptives that balance your hormones can also help, but they may have other side effects,” says Dr Navin Taneja. If you are ready to splurge, you can also opt for advanced corrective treatments such as laser and light therapies. “Laser treatments damage the oil glands, causing them to produce less oil, while light therapy targets the bacteria that cause acne inflammation,” adds Dr Taneja.

Work out your way to acne-free skin
Exercise can help control acne by taming the testosterone hormone that cause excess production of sebum. Cortisol or the ‘stress hormone’, produced by the adrenal gland just above the kidney, is also linked with acne. Cortisol secretion increases when a person is under stress, starving or sleep-deprived. Exercise helps tame cortisol levels. “A 30-45 minute long brisk walk or slow jog several times a week may help reduce acne by normalising the hormones that contribute to those ugly bumps and pustules,” says Dr Anju Ghei of VLCC Healthcare.

Walk, jog, cycle: Outdoor exercises pamper your skin with fresh air and a bit of sun. One of the best exercises is swimming, as water keeps your skin hydrated.
Feel good: Find an activity that you love doing. It can be yoga, Pilates or anything that helps you feel better from within, thus triggering secretion of the feel good hormones. Regular physical exercise helps release endorphins that can boost your confidence and self esteem.

Deep breathing: It is probably the simplest, most effective relaxation technique. Shallow, rapid breathing is a common reaction to stress. So deep, slow breathing can interrupt your stress response and help you to relax. Close your eyes. Breathe out slowly and completely through your mouth. Watch your stomach cave in as you breathe out. Now breathe in slowly and deeply through your nose. Watch your stomach expand as you breathe in. Hold for five seconds, then exhale and begin the cycle again. Repeat at least five times.

Relax and Roll: Relax your shoulders and let your head roll forward, chin to chest. Slowly rotate your head in a circle without straining your neck. Repeat five times. Relax, and rotate in the opposite direction and repeat five times. Try not to raise your shoulders as you do this exercise.

Home remedies

Cucumber
The cooling effect of cucumber soothes the skin and in turn, prevents acne outbreaks. Cucumber is also a source of natural astringent, and hence is very effective when it comes to tightening skin pores.

Lemon juice
The acidic property of lemon is quite beneficial for acne treatment. Take a slice of lemon, rub it on your face, leave it for a few hours and rinse off with cold water. Lemon cleans the dirt accumulated on the pores, and hardens the sebum.

Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil acts like an antiseptic and helps in removing damaged skin cells by slightly irritating the skin. This oil is like a solvent and cuts through grease and dirt, thus unblocking the pores. Its antibacterial properties prevents further outbreaks. You can even add a few drops to your bucket of water for bathing.

Aloe Vera juice
Aloe Vera cannot cure acne but its natural healing and soothing properties reduces swelling and redness of acne. Just pick a thick leaf from an aloe vera plant, wash and process in a juicer, and dab the juice with a cotton ball on the affected area, twice daily.

Neem extracts
Neem kills the bacteria that often cause acne. Make a paste of neem leaves by adding little water, and apply it on the affected areas. Leave for about 30 minutes and rose off with cold water. To treat back acne, boil a bunch of clean neem leaves in water, and let the water cool, bathe twice daily with this water.

Right Diet to Fight Acne
Fibre plays an important role in getting rid of body toxins. Eat cereals and fibre-rich food and vegetables such as blueberries, grapefruit to detoxify body and clear your skin. Include Vitamin A in your diet as it is a good source of carotenoids that reduces sebum production. Carrots, papaya, spinach,and tomato juice are all rich sources of carotenoids.

Avoid processed foods as they are high in saturated fats and transfat, and can lead to an increase in sebum production, thereby triggering acne. If you have a persistent acne problem then food items like deep fried chips, French fries, pakodas, aloo tikkis etc are a strict no-no for you. The saturated oil content also increases cholesterol in the body, leading to poor blood circulation, and this can worsen your acne problem.

How To Get Rid Of Heat Pimples Naturally

That ugly, red spot right in the middle of your forehead needs no introduction. It is sure to grab eyeballs, and you’ll be forced to run for cover. How is it that you end up struggling with these (heat) pimples again and again?

Why does this happen so often? What can you do to solve them, once and for all? This is where we come in! In this post, we will tell you how you can get rid of heat pimples by using some ingredients that you can find in your kitchen. Read on to find out more!

What Causes Heat Pimples?

We all know what pimples are. But there is another, more menacing form of this skin problem that, at first, seems like a rash. Heat pimples are red boils that appear on your skin in patches.

Your internal body heat is what causes them. It is observed that some people have low or normal body heat, while others have high internal body heat. This encourages overproduction of sebum that clogs your skin pores. This ultimately leads to heat pimples.

Other causes include:

  • Infection caused by bacteria
  • Clogged sweat glands
  • Poor diet
  • Poor hygiene
  • Tight-fitting clothes
  • Alcohol consumption
  • A weak immune system

In the next section, we will explore a few simple home remedies that can help heal heat pimples.

Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Heat Pimples

1. Castor Oil

As we know, pimples are caused by a microbial infection. The major constituent of castor oil is ricinoleic acid, which exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. This can decrease the inflammation associated with the heat pimple (1).

You Will Need
  • 2-3 drops of castor oil
  • A few drops of sandalwood oil
  • 250 ml of boiling water
What You Have To Do
  1. Mix a few drops of castor oil with sandalwood oil.
  2. Add the mixture to boiling water and keep it aside for 5-6 minutes.
  3. Apply this oil mixture to your face.
  4. Pat your face dry and wash it off the next morning.
How Often You Should Do This

You can do this two times a week.

2. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera gel exhibits antimicrobial properties that can help mitigate any bacterial infection that causes pimples. It also promotes faster healing and even has a soothing effect on the heat pimple (2).

You Will Need

Aloe vera gel

What You Have To Do
  1. Take some aloe vera gel in a teaspoon.
  2. Apply this to the pimple.
  3. You can leave it on overnight and rinse off in the morning.
How Often You Should Do This

Repeat once a day until the pimple is healed.

3. Honey

Honey has always proven to be effective in fighting infection. Its antibacterial properties may help in reducing the infection that causes pimples. It also has a cooling and soothing effect on your skin (3).

You Will Need
  • 1 tablespoon of honey
  • A clean gauze
What You Have To Do
  1. Using one end of the gauze, apply honey to the pimple.
  2. Repeat this several times with a fresh gauze.
How Often You Should Do This

Repeat 3-4 times daily.

4. Lemon Juice

As we are aware, lemon is rich in vitamin C and has antibacterial properties (4). These properties can help in reducing heat pimples and soothing the skin surrounding them.

You Will Need
  • 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
  • Honey
What You Have To Do
  1. Mix the lemon juice and honey.
  2. Apply this to the pimple and leave it on for 5 minutes.
  3. Rinse off with cold water.
How Often You Should Do This

Do this once daily.

5. Turmeric Powder

Turmeric contains curcumin that is anti-inflammatory. A mixture of turmeric and yogurt can reduce the swelling associated with heat pimples and soothe your skin (5), (6).

You Will Need
  • 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
  • 1-2 tablespoons of yogurt
What You Have To Do
  1. Take a teaspoon of turmeric powder and make a thick paste by mixing it with the yogurt.
  2. Apply to the pimple and allow it to dry.
  3. Wash off with cold water.
How Often You Should Do This

For the best results, apply this paste two times a day.

6. Neem Leaves

Neem possesses antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties (7). These can help alleviate the swelling and infection that arise with a heat pimple. The paste can also have a cooling effect on your skin and promote faster healing.

You Will Need
  • 8-10 neem leaves
  • A teaspoon of sandalwood powder
What You Have To Do
  1. Boil some neem leaves in water, strain the decoction, and let it cool.
  2. Add a teaspoon of sandalwood powder to this decoction to make a fine paste.
  3. Apply the paste to the heat pimple.
  4. Wash it off with cold water after it dries completely.
How Often You Should Do This

Apply once daily to see a visible change.

7. Cold Compress

Studies show that a cold compress can help mitigate heat pimples. The low temperature of the compress can have a soothing effect on the inflammation associated with pimples (8).

You Will Need

Ice water

What You Have To Do
  1. Soak a clean washcloth in ice-cold water.
  2. Wring out the excess water and place it on the area with pimples.
  3. Do this for 10 minutes.
How Often You Should Do This

Repeat this procedure 3-4 times a day.

8. Apple Cider Vinegar

Owing to its antimicrobial properties, apple cider vinegar can effectively combat bacterial infections (9). This may help get rid of the pimple and aid faster healing.

You Will Need
  • 1-2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar
  • Water
What You Have To Do
  1. Take a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar and dilute it with water.
  2. Dab a bit of this solution on a cotton ball and apply it to the heat pimple.
  3. Leave it on and secure it with surgical tape or band-aid.
  4. Wash it off after a couple of hours.
How Often You Should Do This

You can do this once a day.

9. Cucumber

Cucumber extracts are rich sources of bioactive compounds that can reduce the appearance of lesions or pimples that arise as a result of body heat. It has a cooling effect on your skin (10).

You Will Need
  • A fresh cucumber
  • Cold water
What You Have To Do
  1. Grate a fresh cucumber and collect the pulpy mixture.
  2. Use this on the pimple.
  3. Wash it off with cold water after 15 minutes.
How Often You Should Do This

Apply this paste once a day to achieve fast results.

This was a list of the home remedies that you can use to treat heat pimples. Next, we will see what lifestyle changes you can adopt to avoid heat pimples.

Other Lifestyle Changes To Avoid Heat Pimples

  • Ensure that you have a balanced diet, replete with nutrients and fiber.
  • Avoid excessive intake of processed dairy products and fish.
  • Drink more water as this promotes the circulation of essential nutrients to your skin, making it look healthy and supple.
  • Avoid getting stressed easily as this can result in the appearance of pimples. You can try a few simple relaxation techniques, like deep breathing, to relieve anxiety and stress.
  • Wear loose-fitting clothes that do not cause skin irritation.
  • Do not touch your face with unclean hands. Our hands carry a large number of bacteria that can cause infection.
  • Get adequate rest and sleep every day.
  • Wash your face after exposure to dust and pollution. Exfoliate once every week to avoid pimples.

These remedies and tips can offer relief from heat pimples. However, everyone’s skin type is different. Hence, it is best to consult a dermatologist before you try out any of them.

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