Ah, summer. It brings so much—sunshine, good times, vacation …and acne? For some, summer breakouts are an unfortunate reality, but it’s not an entirely lost cause. Here are the best ways to clear up your skin when it’s at its most vulnerable.
More Summer Skin Care Tips:
How To Banish Summer Breakouts
For a Quick Clear-Up
AcneFree Energizing 3-in-1 Acne Wipes ($6.99) are formulated to cleanse your skin and reduce acne at the same time. Featuring a refreshing blend of mint and orange extracts, these wipes do it all: remove makeup, treat unsightly breakouts, and leave skin energized. Stash a package in your gym bag and your travel bag when you're on the road.
For Cooling and De-Stickifying
Sticky, warm skin is a big summer drawback---and so are the clogged pores that often result. Nip them in the bud with Bioré Blemish Fighting Ice Cleanser ($5.99), a cooling acne treatment that contains salicylic acid. It leaves skin feeling fresh and looking clearer than ever.
For Zits AND Wrinkles
If your skin concerns are twofold, look to Philosophy Miracle Worker ($60), a new treatment that combats both acne and wrinkles. The hydrating emulsion leaves skin soft, but this is far more than your average anti-aging moisturizer. It's lightweight enough to stand up to unbearable heat, yet it's also potent enough to diminish the look of large pores, discoloration, and other visible signs of aging, all while helping to prevent further breakouts. "Miracle" indeed.
For a Full-Body Treatment
Dealing with "bacne" is no fun at any time of year, but swimsuit season has a way of putting your back in the spotlight. Clear it right up with Glytone Back Acne Spray ($27.20), which features a practical 360-degree angle spray that hits every spot with precision. Enriched with salicylic acid, it's so effective that you can use it elsewhere on the body, too---think arms, shoulders, and even legs if necessary.
For a Hint of Color
Don't you just love---and by love, I mean loathe---how sunscreen has a tendency to break your skin out? And since sunscreen is an inarguable summer essential, you can't exactly just lop it off your list. Grab yourself a tube of Colorescience Mineral Makeup Sunforgettable Mineral Sunscreen Brush SPF 50 ($62). It delivers a hint of color and is made with gentle, non-irritating ingredients---and, naturally, it's a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
For Exfoliating and Future Breakout Prevention
Foundation can be your best friend or your worst enemy, depending on the condition of your skin. Tackle blemishes, cover them up, and allow skin to breathe with The Body Shop Tea Tree Flawless BB Cream ($18). Available in three shades ranging from light to dark, it generously covers imperfections while softening skin and preventing future breakouts.
For Your Shower Routine
Neutrogena Body Clear Pink Grapefruit Body Wash ($7.49) is a fantastic addition to your summer shower routine. It smells citrusy fresh and is formulated to eliminate body breakouts that make it decidedly less than thrilling to slip into a bikini. With regular use you'll enjoy clearer, smoother skin.
For Oil Control
Sometimes you just need a little break. Treat yourself to a DIY spa night and apply theBalm TimeBalm Spearmint Face Mask ($20) to freshly cleansed skin. This cooling treatment contains peppermint oil, which detoxifies skin and leaves it decongested, clean, and bright. It soaks up oil, which can contribute to acne production, and it just plain feels incredible on a hot day.