Summer Vs. Skin: An Epic Battle

The summer months bring a lot of wonderful events, weather conditions and cute outfits to our lives. One thing that is not cute though: dealing with the sweat factor while trying to maintain a clear complexion.

By Kelly

Heat = sweat

Sweat = pimples

As someone who enjoys the outdoors, runs almost daily and has a tendency to break a sweat during even the smallest tasks (like walking to my car!), I have come up with some easy ways to maintain a blemish free face for the warm months.

Less is more. Whether you’re going to work, to a picnic or to a bar, summer days and nights can become excruciatingly hot and humid. One of the best ways to keep your skin clear is to wear less foundation (no cake make-up, ladies) while you’re out and about. Since most individuals have a natural glow in the summer, due to the heat, the use of lots of foundation blocks air from getting to your pores. This prevents your pores from breathing properly, thus creating bacteria build-up that can turn into pimples. If you cannot bear to go without some face make-up, use a tinted moisturizer, light powder or bronzer to give yourself a base.

Wash carefully. Despite what makeup you do use – a little or a lot – you must practice a routine of twice a day (morning and night) face washing. Something mild, like a Cetaphil Daily Face Cleanser, will be easier on your humid skin than something stronger, like a Noxzema or Clearasil.

Drink. Drink. Drink. When you sweat, your body is releasing liquids, thus causing you to become more dehydrated. Make sure you drink lots of water to hydrate not only your body, but your skin as well. Drinking roughly two liters a day is enough water to balance your body and its sweat glands.

Wash that sweat off. After you exercise, make sure you take a shower as soon as possible to wash off the sweat, dirt and any other ickiness. Not showering after a workout causes the sweat to dry and go back into your pores, causing the inevitable bacteria build up. Showering soon after working out (or any physical activity…hem hem) can limit the amount of potential pimples that can show up. Note: If you can’t shower, bring a wash cloth with you to dab your sweat off. It helps kill that on-the-surface sweat and bacteria in the meantime.

Eat right. You may be saying, ‘’How does food have anything to do with pimples?” Well, my trusted CC-ers, eating more fruits and vegetables can strengthen your skin.

Leave your Do’ Alone. Use less hair gel and hair spray. The oils in your hair products can run down onto your forehead and face when you sweat, causing the chemicals to get into your skin and produce pimples.

So ladies, next time you’re laying on the beach or going for a job, keep these tips (and a bottle of water!) with you, so you can have clear, flawless skin for the hot summer days.

[Photo courtesy of www.teamsugar.com]