Summertime Skincare: Choosing the Best Moisturizer for Acne-Prone Skin

During the summer, it’s important to prioritize skin moisturization after exposure to the sun. Sun exposure can lead to skin dehydration and increased exfoliation (skin peeling). Sun and heat also creates humidity and sweat, which can increase breakouts. That's why it’s especially important during the summer to choose the right moisturizer that will hydrate the skin without clogging pores. The two types of moisturizer for the warmer months are (1) gel-based moisturizers and (2) lightweight, creamy formulas.

Understanding Acne-Prone Skin in Summer

So why does warmer weather trigger acne? Summer conditions like humidity and sweat can worsen acne by increasing oil production and clogging pores. Additionally, wet bathing suits being worn for a prolonged amount of time can trigger conditions like butt acne. When your skin is breaking out, choosing non-comedogenic, lightweight skincare products that protect your skin barrier is super important. 

Lifestyle Adjustments to Consider

A few lifestyle adjustments can be made to avoid flare-ups and trigger acne-prone skin:

1. Bathe More Frequently: Sweat can lead to clogged pores and acne breakouts. Take showers or baths more frequently, especially after sweating heavily.
2. Change Out of Sweaty Clothes: Avoid wearing sweaty or damp clothing for long periods. Change into clean, breathable clothes to prevent pore blockages and irritation.
3. Avoid Wet Swimsuits: Wet swimsuits can trap moisture and bacteria against your skin, leading to breakouts. Change out of wet swimsuits promptly after swimming.
4. Use Oil-Free Sunscreen: Choose an oil-free sunscreen to protect your skin without triggering acne.
5. Use AHA Treatment: Incorporate an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) such as mandelic acid into your skincare routine to help exfoliate dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores. Consider applying a mid-day treatment if needed when it is hot and humid.
6. Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and help flush out toxins. Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to maintain skin hydration without clogging pores.

Benefits of Gel-Based Moisturizers

Gel-based moisturizers are great for summer skincare because of their lightweight, non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly into the skin. This provides hydration without clogging your pores or feeling heavy. These moisturizers sometimes even contain clarifying ingredients like mandelic acid or tea tree oil, which can help prevent and clear blemishes by exfoliating pores to remove excess oil. They also typically include lightweight moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin. 

The combination of hydrating properties makes gel-based moisturizers perfect for maintaining refreshed skin during summer weather. Gel moisturizers are also designed to offer a cooling effect with quick absorption, resulting in a matte finish. Almond Clear’s 2-in-1 Hydrating Gel is a great option if you have oily skin and want to provide your skin with hydration while combatting acne.

Advantages of Lightweight, Creamy Moisturizers

A lightweight, creamy moisturizer offers hydration without the heaviness typically associated with richer creams. This makes it perfect for bringing dehydrated skin back to life without feeling greasy. Not only does it soothe sunburned or irritated skin, but it can provide a soothing effect and repair the skin. It also creates a protective barrier against environmental stressors such as humidity, excessive heat, pollutants, and other harsh elements. 

Almond Clear’s Soothing Daily Moisturizer is enriched with key ingredients such as squalane, hyaluronic acid, and aloe vera, which are great for calming acne-prone skin. Squalane helps regulate oil production, hyaluronic acid deeply hydrates without clogging pores, and aloe vera soothes inflammation and promotes healing. For this reason, the Soothing Daily Moisturizer is great for maintaining balanced and nourished skin.

Tips for Using Moisturizers in Summer

1. You can mix gel and creamy moisturizers or alternate between them depending on your skin's hydration needs. Blending moisturizers can create the perfect weight of moisturizer for your skin on a particular day.  
2. It is also important to change the frequency of application based on your skin type. Those with oily skin might need less frequent application than those with dry skin. 
3. Layer your moisturizer with sunscreen for additional protection against UV ray so that your skin stays shielded from the sun. 

Conclusion

The benefits of both gel-based and creamy moisturizers offer different solutions for summer skincare. Gel-based moisturizers are lightweight and ideal for hot, humid weather. They can provide hydration without feeling heavy on the skin. On the other hand, creamy moisturizers are more nourishing and suitable for combatting dryness for those with drier skin types. 

If you aren’t sure which type of moisturizer to use, we recommend experimenting with different products to discover what works best for your skin. Be open to adjusting your skincare routine from day to day based on your individual needs. By incorporating these tips, your skin can be hydrated, breakout-free, and protected throughout the summer season.