How to Prevent Acne Flares in the Heat and Humidity of Spring and Summer

Sweating through a hot, humid day can feel uncomfortable enough on its own — add acne flare-ups to the mix, and it can seriously affect your confidence. When temperatures rise and your skin produces more oil, breakouts become more common and harder to manage. However, with the right skincare habits, you can enjoy clearer skin all season long.

At SkinSmart Dermatology in Sarasota, FL, we help patients reduce the impact of seasonal acne with targeted strategies and advanced treatments. Led by Dr. Elizabeth F. Callahan, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon with training from the Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic, our team specializes in both medical dermatology and cosmetic skincare. 

How to Avoid Breakouts in Hot, Humid Weather

Hot weather and humidity can increase oil production, trapping sweat and bacteria on the skin. Here are simple steps that can support your skin:

• Wash your face after sweating: Don’t let sweat dry on your skin. Use a gentle cleanser to rinse away sweat and bacteria.
• Use non-comedogenic products: Choose makeup and sunscreen that won’t clog pores.
• Change out of sweaty clothes quickly: Sweat-soaked clothing can trap bacteria against your skin.
• Shower after workouts: Prevent sweat from lingering and causing breakouts on your back, chest, and shoulders.
• Avoid touching your face: Hands transfer oil, dirt, and bacteria that can clog pores.

These steps can help keep pores clean and prevent heat-induced breakouts from becoming a recurring problem.

Why Acne Gets Worse in the Summer

A combination of environmental and lifestyle changes often triggers seasonal acne flares. Here’s why summer can be especially challenging for acne-prone skin:

• Increased oil production: Heat stimulates your oil glands.
• More time outdoors: Dirt and pollution can mix with sweat and clog pores.
• Thicker skincare products: Using heavy lotions or makeup in summer can contribute to breakouts.
• Frequent sun exposure: Some acne treatments can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.

Understanding these factors helps you plan smarter skincare strategies to prevent your breakouts from worsening.

When to Seek Professional Acne Treatment

Sometimes, lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough to prevent or manage acne flares. You may benefit from a SkinSmart dermatologist’s care if you:

• Experience persistent or severe breakouts: Ongoing acne that won’t improve with basic skincare may need medical-grade treatment.
• Have painful or cystic acne: Deeper breakouts often require oral medications or in-office procedures.
• Notice acne scars forming: Early treatment can help prevent permanent skin changes.
• Struggle with seasonal flare-ups: If summer weather always worsens your skin, expert care can help break the cycle.

Getting timely support from a board-certified dermatologist at Skin Smart Dermotology ensures your acne is treated thoroughly and safely, reducing long-term damage and improving your skin’s resilience.

Talk to an Expert About Seasonal Acne

If your breakouts worsen when the weather heats up, contact SkinSmart Dermatology in Sarasota, FL. Call 941-308-7546 to request an appointment today.