Why Do Breakouts Become More Common in Summer and What Can You Do About It?
Breakouts appear more frequently during summer due to three main reasons: increased sebum production caused by heat, buildup of SPF and sweat inside the pores, and constant temperature changes between outdoor heat and air conditioning. The skin reacts to these factors with clogged pores, excess oiliness, and breakouts.
According to Ukrainian dermatologists, this is one of the most common skin concerns among Ukrainians. During summer, flare-ups traditionally become even more frequent. Let’s take a closer look at the causes of the problem and the best ways to manage it.
Why Does Skin Break Out More in Summer?
Sebaceous glands become more active
In hot weather, the skin produces more sebum to protect itself from moisture loss. However, when sebum mixes with sweat, SPF, and dust, pores become clogged much faster. That is why summer often brings:
- blackheads;
- closed comedones;
- small breakouts;
- oily shine.
The skin overheats
High temperatures and humidity create ideal conditions for acne-causing bacteria. If the skin is not properly cleansed after SPF or makeup, the risk of inflammation increases even more.
Aggressive cleansing only makes things worse
Another common summer mistake is over-drying the skin with alcohol-based products or acids. In response, the skin begins producing even more sebum. That is why the main rule of summer skincare is not aggressive treatment, but balance.
How to Care for Your Skin in Summer to Reduce Breakouts
1. Proper cleansing
During summer, dust, sweat, and sebum accumulate on the surface of the skin. Excessive sun exposure, temperature changes, and air conditioning also affect the skin. To support your skin during this period, it is important to maintain regular yet gentle cleansing.
For oily and problematic skin, PROBLEM SKIN CLEANSING FOAM by ED Cosmetics is an excellent choice — a foam cleanser that gently cleanses pores without leaving the skin feeling tight or dry.
If your skin reacts to heat with dullness, uneven texture, or closed comedones, consider adding VIT C ENZYME CLEANSING POWDER. This enzyme powder gently exfoliates, smooths the skin texture, helps cleanse pores, and also contains vitamin C and a probiotic to support the skin microbiome.
If you notice that your skin becomes congested quickly during summer, pay attention to AHA REPAIR CLEANSING FOAM with AHA acids. It gently exfoliates, improves skin texture, and prepares the skin for the next steps of your skincare routine.
2. Hydration
One of the main causes of summer breakouts is dehydration. When the skin lacks moisture, it starts producing more sebum. That is why lightweight hydration is essential during summer. HYDRATION FACE CREAM is a great option — a lightweight cream that helps maintain skin balance without feeling heavy.
If your skin becomes sensitive or red after sun exposure, consider adding HYDRATION SERUM. This serum helps retain moisture, reduce skin reactivity, and support a healthy skin barrier.
3. Sebum control without over-drying
In summer, the skin especially needs ingredients that help soothe it and normalize sebum production. However, be careful with aggressive products, as they often create the opposite effect. Instead, consider DETOX Serum — a lightweight serum that helps the skin look clearer and fresher without overloading it.
4. SPF is an essential step in summer skincare
Many people with acne are afraid of SPF products because they seem too heavy. However, sun exposure increases inflammation, worsens post-acne marks, triggers sensitivity, and may even cause more breakouts due to skin overheating.
That is why it is important to choose lightweight SPF textures. DAILY SUN CREAM SPF 30 is perfect for everyday city use. This product:
- provides UVA/UVB protection;
- has a lightweight texture;
- absorbs quickly;
- does not leave a greasy film;
- works well as a makeup base.
For intense sun exposure, vacations, or beach trips, DAILY SUN CREAM SPF 50 is a better option. Its formula provides high protection while remaining comfortable even for oily skin.
Final Thoughts
Summer breakouts are most often a reaction to heat, dehydration, and improper cleansing. That is why summer skincare should focus not on aggressive treatments, but on maintaining the right balance:
- gentle cleansing;
- lightweight hydration;
- sebum control;
- daily SPF protection.
Choose skincare from ED Cosmetics to maintain this balance without overloading the skin and enjoy summer comfortably.
Questions and Answers
1. Why do breakouts appear after sun exposure?
UV radiation temporarily dries out inflammation and masks oily shine. However, afterward the skin often responds with increased sebum production and thickening of the outer skin layer, which may lead to breakouts even several days after intense sun exposure. That is why sunscreen is essential.
2. Can air conditioning cause breakouts?
Yes. Constant temperature changes, dry air, and dehydration can weaken the skin barrier, making the skin more sensitive and reactive.
3. Should you use face masks during summer?
Yes, but it is better to choose lightweight cleansing or soothing masks without aggressive ingredients. For example, VITAMIN C FACE & NECK MASK is a great hydrating option. During summer, maintaining skin balance is more important than intensive treatments.
4. Why can SPF cause breakouts and how can you avoid it?
Breakouts are usually caused not by SPF itself, but by formulas that are too heavy or by insufficient cleansing at the end of the day. To avoid this, choose lightweight sunscreen products and cleanse your skin thoroughly after sun exposure. For example, you can use HYDRATION MICELLAR GEL by ED Cosmetics.
5. Summer allergies and breakouts appear together. What skincare should you choose?
Summer is a period of active blooming and pollen exposure, which can trigger allergies for many people. If your skin becomes irritated, it is best to keep your routine as simple and gentle as possible: mild cleansing, hydration, and a minimum of active ingredients. Basic products from the HYDRATION line by ED Cosmetics are a great choice in this situation.
