Stay Out Of The Sun For Acne’s Sake
The myth circulating is that the sun can actually cure acne. While it is true that some sun exposure can reduce the appearance of acne, too much sun exposure makes acne worse. While in the sun, the skin tans and this skin darkening makes the redness and blemishes less noticeable. In reality, any exposure to the sun whether it is a tan or a burn irritates the skin and any type of skin irritation will make acne worse, never better. Direct sunlight stimulates the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum. This results in more blemishes because sweat combines with the excessive sebum attracting more dirt.
Tanning may temporarily reduce the appearance of blemishes, but too much exposure will only exacerbate the condition. To protect your skin, don’t go out when the sun is at its peak. Avoid direct sunlight on acne prone areas such as the face or back. Use a non-comedogenic sun block that contains at least a 15 sun protection factor (SPF) or higher. Check ingredients on the sunscreen label to ensure you are using a product that is oil based free. Wear a wide brimmed hat or umbrella to shield your face or body from the sun.