How Exactly Might The Sun Clear Up Spots And Whats The Science Behind It
Certain waves of light can have a positive impact on the skin and significantly help to reduce the effects of acne. For instance, blue light can help to kill p.acne – a bacteria known to exacerbate acne – and red and blue light in combination can reduce excess sebum secreted by your sebaceous glands and in turn help to unclog blocked pores.
Acne Myths And Misconceptions
There are many myths regarding acne treatment. Some ask how effective is Vitamin B5 for acne while others believe banning chocolate from their diets can relieve their breakouts. One of the most pervasive myths about acne treatment involves the sun.
You may have heard people ask “Does tanning help with acne?” or “Is the sun good for acne?”. Individuals with breakouts believe that sun exposure can help relieve acne symptoms, but unfortunately, the combination of sun and acne can result in worsened breakouts. Sun exposure can make breakouts more severe, especially for acne-prone skin. It’s important to learn how acne develops, as understanding acne can help you better find solutions. Sun exposure will cause dehydration, which in turn stimulates oil production as your skin tries to correct the issue, says Annet King, Director of Global Education for The International Dermal Institute. This excess oil production can result in clogged pores and inflamed pimples.
Is Sun Good For Acne Lets Ask A Dermatologist
Does the sun help acne? Many people think that getting some sun and developing a tan can reduce acne. But is this true or just a myth? Turns out that all that time in the sun is simply giving the illusion of improved acne. In fact, for some skin types, sun exposure worsens the scar or flares up your acne thanks to sun damage from UV light. Dont take it from us we spoke to a dermatologist to find out if there is any truth to curing acne with the sun.
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Is Aloe Vera After Sun Good For Acne
The clear gel inside of aloe vera leaves is used topically to soothe skin that has been burned or irritated, and some people use it to treat acne.Using pure aloe vera topically.Two other ingredients that have been studied and found to have this same effect are cinnamon and honey.A face mask with aloe vera and lemon juice will give your face a refreshed and invigorated look while it cleans your pores and kills some of the bacteria that might be causing your acne.For this mask, use pure aloe vera as the base, adding about 1/4 teaspoon of lemon juice to 2 tablespoons of aloe vera.Leave the mixture on your skin for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing off completely.Aloe vera antibacterial spray.Since aloe vera can stimulate healthy skin cell growth , it might be worth it to purchase or make your own cleansing aloe spray.If youre interested in natural remedies for acne, you might want to combine aloe vera with coconut oil and sugar for a DIY exfoliator.The main acid in coconut oil has been studied and found to be a promising acne treatment.To use, gently scrub the mixture over your face and avoid your eye area.This isnt a mixture you should leave on your face, as tea tree oil is extremely potent and acidic.Use aloe vera as your base, add purified water and 2 to 3 drops of tea tree oil before carefully applying the mixture to your face. .
Worsen Acne Scars Over Time
Moderate sun exposure is beneficial and needed, but the truth is that over time, the sun breaks down skin collagen, and elastin. This breakdown of our skins foundation and structure can lead to pores appearing larger, and may cause more acne scarring in the future from breakouts since scars are formed from damage to the collagen matrix of skin. Faster breakdown of collagen means that fine lines can appear sooner.
Solar radiation causes oxidative damage, which accumulates over the years and promotes skin aging. So sunscreen is essential for two reasons: to prevent the formation of free radicals and to prevent the photosensitivity of the skin.
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Choosing The Right Sunscreen For Your Skin Type
Regardless of skin type, its important to wear sunscreen however, skin types can affect how you react to application of these products.
Oily/Combination Skin: Those with oily or combination skin should look for sunscreens labeled non-comedogenic to avoid excess clogging of pores. Oil-free sunscreens will provide a non-greasy finish and help prevent excess shine that those with these skin types often deal with.
Dry Skin: If you have dry skin, you’ll likely want to use a different type of sunscreen. Those with dry skin need to use a daily moisturizer that incorporates SPF, and find a liquid sunscreen that can spread easily and evenly over the skin.
Sensitive Skin: Those with sensitive skin need to be ever diligent with their sunscreen regimen. Look for fragrance free sunscreen options, as chemical additions can cause irritation to sensitive skin. Try a hypoallergenic, broad spectrum sunscreen, and be sure to reapply accordingly.
SunFilter and SunShady, our non-nano 100% mineral zinc oxide sunscreens for face and body, are designed for blemish-prone skin but can be used on all skin types. Both offer total protection against harmful UV rays, blue light, environmental pollutants, free radicals, and signs of premature aging. This sunscreen duo serves as an ultimate skin protector and everyday hydrator.
Sunlight May Protect You From Prostate Cancer:
The lesser sunlight you get, the higher your chances of being diagnosed with prostate cancer. Yes! You read it right. It is a well-known fact among scientists. In many researches it was found that in the US, African-Americans have the highest death rate and the shortest survival span. According to a 2005 study done by North Carolina Wake Forest University, lack of sunlight can increase the chances of prostate cancer.
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What Sun Protection Should I Use If I Have Acne
Some people with acne-prone skin do their best to avoid sun protection products fearing that the oils and chemicals in the creams will block their pores and make skin worse. Others dont like the fact that some sun protection products make their skin look shiny.
Effective sun protection is essential for all skin types and skins prone to blemishes and acne are no exception. In fact, choosing the right sun protection can be even more important for acne-prone skin as it is particularly prone to hyperpigmentation.
The trick is to choose products that have been specially formulated for acne-prone skin and that have been clinically and dermatologically proven to give skin the protection it needs without blocking pores, adding sheen or triggering and exacerbating acne.
Choose light creams, fluids or gels. A lighter texture doesnt mean you need to compromise on high protection. Look out also for products labelled non-comedogenic – this means they dont contain ingredients that might block pores and trigger blemishes.
Eucerin Sun Gel-Creme Oil Control offers a light texture and comes in both SPF 30+ and 50+. Both SPFs are non-comedogenic and are clinically and dermatologically proven to be suitable for blemish-prone skin. They deliver a long-lasting mattifying effect and contain sebum-regulating L-Carnitine to help improve your skin condition.
Is The Sun Good For Acne
Nowadays, one important part of taking care of ourselves is skin care. This is important not just only to make us look good, but skin is one of the largest organ of our body and its job is to protect our whole body from infections.
The significant part for maintaining our skin healthy is keeping it moisturized, so the barrier remains strong. There are many procedures for skin care. Some would have routines in the morning and evening before bed. Some would go to dermatologists and spas to have facials. Others would invest for good products that would get pricey at times.
But no matter what routine you would have, keep in mind the other factors that will affect your skin. Sometimes, stress and exhaustion can have an effect on your skin. Skin types also have an effect. There are ones who have drier skin than the others then there are ones who have oily skin who are more prone to acne. There are formulas made for them though, and it will be helpful to have a research for something that is really good for your skin. Some products may be harsh for you but not for others.
A really good alternative for buying these products is trying the home remedies. Examples are apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, garlic, turmeric, and many more. This will be a lot cheaper and can have them to your evening routine as an exchange for the more expensive products.
The key is the proportion. The sun has its benefits, so we should use them wisely.
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When To See A Dermatologist
It can take time to see results from treatment. If treatment works, you may start to see results in six to eight weeks. Complete clearing can take three or four months.
If you dont see any difference in six to eight weeks, you may need a dermatologists help. With a dermatologists help, virtually every type of acne can be successfully treated.
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ReferencesBikowski J. A review of the safety and efficacy of benzoyl peroxide emollient foam in the management of truncal acne vulgaris. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2010 3:26-9.
Brand B, Gilbert R, et al. Cumulative irritancy comparison of adapalene gel 0.1% versus other retinoid products when applied in combination with topical antimicrobial agents. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2003 49:S227-32.
Del Rosso JQ. Management of truncal acne vulgaris: current perspectives on treatment. Cutis. 2006 May 77:285-9.
Eichenfield LF, Andrew C. Krakowski AC, et al. Evidence-Based Recommendations for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Pediatric Acne. Pediatrics. 2013 131 Suppl 3:S163-86.
Leyden JJ, Del Rosso JQ. The effect of benzoyl peroxide 9.8% emollient foam on reduction of Propionibacterium acnes on the back using a short contact therapy approach. J Drugs Dermatol. 2012 11:830-3.
What Does Sun Exposure Do To Acne
At first glance, it appears as if the myth might be true. Research has made correlations between acne and a lack of vitamin D , and general improvement in skin quality after sun exposure. But if we look a little closer, the answer isn’t quite as simple.After sun exposure, skin can sometimes look better because it provokes the production of melanin which gives the skin a tan. This tan not only reduces the appearance of spots but also makes our complexion look healthier. However the acne is still present.
Acne-sufferers, have a high risk of permanent damage, especially scarring, if they over-expose their skin to the sun
Dr. Nina Roos, Dermatologist
What’s more, while the sun might dry out the skin and reduce sebum production, the effect is only a temporary one. Studies suggest that sunlight can cause dryness and dehydration, which in turn prompts the skin to produce more sebum and leads to more breakouts after the sunlight exposure.According to dermatologist Dr Nina Roos, this myth exists because in the first few days after being in the sun, it does dry out acne and pimples. However the effects are short-term. After sun exposure the epidermis is thickened, and sebum production slows down. But then the skin produces more sebum in dry conditions, leading to breakouts”, she explains.
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Risk Of Sunburn And Skin Damage
A sunburn means that the skin has gotten pretty damaged and this is something to try to avoid at all costs. If skin is burned or damaged, this can lead to skin being extra sensitive and inflamed. As the skin is flaking off, the excessive dead skin combined with the already sensitive and damaged skin could lead to more acne.
Excess Sweat Increases Chance Of Fungal Acne
Sunbathing leads to more sweat and if you are already acne prone, having excess sweat is generally not good for acne since the moisture and warmth is a perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. Warm and moist environments could lead to fungal acne too which is common on the body.
Too Much Sun Is Never A Good Thing
There is also a high chance that too much sun tanning or sun exposure will lead to aging of the skin, skin cancer and many other serious health problems. The best idea is to wear sunscreen, but be sure that it will not block you pores. Try and find oil free products with an SPF of at least 15 which will protect you from UVA and UVB rays. Whilst sunburn will not lead to immediate acne problems, it is likely that a few weeks after being sunburnt the affected areas will suffer from an acne outbreak.
If you are using acne treatments that contains ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid then extra care is needed. They can both dry the skin slightly and salicylic acid makes your skin more vulnerable to UV light. As a result it is essential to wear sun screen if you are going to be in the sun for any prolonged period of time.
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How The Sun Triggers Breakouts
After youve been in the sun, the epidermis starts to dry and thicken, VanHoose explained. When this happens, your body responds by producing even more oil to compensate for what was lost and that can lead to more breakouts.
This effect doesnt occur immediately, which may be why people dont realize the connection between sunlight and worsening acne. Another source of confusion is the fact that dermatologists sometimes recommend light therapy to treat acne however, the blue light used in this FDA-approved treatment is very different from the suns rays. It kills acne-causing bacteria without damaging the skin the way UV light does. Sunlight does not kill P. acnes.
The Positive Effects Of Sunlight
Sunlight in moderation is good for our bodies and our minds. Its an important source of Vitamin D which is essential for many of the vital processes in our body such as the development of healthy bones. You can find out more in How UVA, UVB and HEV Light rays affect skin.The suns rays can lift our mood too. Our bodys ability to produce serotonin is directly affected by sunlight and research has shown that a lack of sunlight can lead to Seasonal Affective Disorder where people get depressed.
Warm temperatures also stimulate circulation and perspiration, and increased perspiration, when well managed, can help to bring excess oil to the skins surface and clear pores. Find out how in Acne and sport.Some people with acne and/or blemish-prone skin report that their skin condition improves when they enjoy a little bit of sun. Living with acne can be stressful, so if a little bit of sun makes you happy about yourself and your skin then thats a good thing. You can read more about the psychological impact of living with acne here.
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Using Sunscreen With The Acneorg Regimen
The Acne.org Regimen, which is a 3-step routine that reliably clears the skin, requires the use of benzoyl peroxide, which is a drying and peeling agent. In order to stay acne-free, it is important to get the skin back into moisture balance after applying benzoyl peroxide. Physical sunscreens, while not pore-clogging in themselves, tend to be intensely drying. Most people find that applying zinc oxide or titanium dioxide based sunscreens simply leaves the skin too dry and flaky after benzoyl peroxide.
From Dan: My sunscreen of choice currently is Banana Boat Sport Performance Active Dry Protect SPF 15, Very Water/Sweat Resistant*. That’s a mouthful. But it is a chemical sunscreen so it I can avoid the whitening and drying of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide sunscreens, and it doesn’t seem to give me a big problem with breakouts, plus I give it a thumbs up for staying put throughout the day and not stinging my eyes too bad. *Acne.org is not associated with Banana Boat in any way.
Eltamd Uv Clear Sunscreen Spf 46
King recommended this non-comedogenic, sensitivity-free, oil-free, paraben-free and fragrance-free sunscreen for acne-prone skin. “With zinc oxide, hyaluronic acid, lactic acid and niacinamide, it helps calm and protect sensitive skin types prone to breakouts associated with acne and rosacea,” she said.
Board-certified dermatologists Robyn Gymrek, MD, and Patricia Wexler, MD, are also fans of this SPF that contains niacinamide, which helps the skin retain moisture, and lactic acid, which helps “decrease shine and clears pores” and makes this lightweight sunscreen “great for acne-prone and sensitive skin,” according to Gmyrek. “It’s light and dries quickly, so you can slather it on your face, neck and chest before getting dressed all year round. This is my daily sunscreen and it’s great for acne-prone skin,” she added.
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Does Sunlight Really Cure Acne
Medically reviewed by Kristin Hall, FNP
If you get whiteheads, blackheads or any other form of acne, youve probably heard someone recommend spending more time in the sun.
At first, it can seem like good advice. Spending time enjoying the sun tends to dry out your skin, making the sebum that can produce acne less of a problem. Plus, a more even tan could make acne less visible, helping to improve your appearance.
Like a lot of advice that appears good at first but falls apart once you start to dig into the details, the idea that spending time in the sun can help you get rid of acne isnt true.
In fact, its a common acne myth thats been holding back people with acne for decades. Worse yet, spending too much time in the sun could even make your acne worse than it already is.
Below, weve dug into the details behind this acne myth to explain why spending time in the sun generally isnt a good way to treat your acne. Weve also listed some real, science-backed acne treatment that you can use if youre prone to acne breakouts.
