Why Do Acne and Blackheads Increase in Summer? 

For many, summer is a time of glowing skin and outdoor fun but for others, the heat brings an unwelcome guest: acne flare-ups and blackheads. If you’ve noticed more breakouts, clogged pores, or oily skin during the warmer months, you’re not alone.

In this in-depth guide, we’ll explain why acne and blackheads often worsen in summer, how sweating contributes to skin issues, and which skincare habits can keep your complexion clear and calm all season long.

Why Does Acne Get Worse in Summer?

There are several reasons acne tends to flare up in the summer:

1. Increased sweat and humidity clog pores and trap bacteria.
   
2. Excess oil production caused by heat and UV exposure.
   
3. Sunscreen, makeup, and sweat combine to form a sticky layer on the skin.
   
4. Touching your face more often (to wipe sweat or fix sunglasses).
   
5. Wearing tight hats, helmets, or masks can lead to friction-induced breakouts (also known as acne mechanica).
   

The result? A perfect environment for clogged pores, blackheads, and inflammatory acne.

Does Sweating Cause Acne?

Sweating itself doesn’t directly cause acne in fact, sweat helps cool the body and remove toxins. However, how you manage sweat makes all the difference.

Here’s the problem: when sweat mixes with sebum, dirt, sunscreen, and bacteria, it can:

• Clog pores, especially if not washed off quickly.
  
• Create a moist, warm environment where acne-causing bacteria thrive.
  
• Irritate the skin if allowed to dry without cleansing.
  

If you don’t shower or wash your face after sweating heavily, especially post-workout or a beach day you’re more likely to experience breakouts.

How to Prevent Summer Breakouts and Blackheads

✅ 1. Cleanse Gently But Effectively

Use a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser twice daily to remove sweat, oil, and environmental debris.

• Foaming gel cleansers work well for oily or acne-prone skin.
  
• Avoid over-washing or scrubbing, which can strip the skin and cause rebound oiliness. 

✅ 2. Choose the Right Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a must but choose non-comedogenic, oil-free formulas labeled as “for acne-prone skin.”

• Gel-based or mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) are best.
  
• Avoid thick, greasy sunscreens with pore-clogging ingredients like coconut oil. 

✅ 3. Blot, Don’t Wipe

When sweating, use clean blotting papers or tissues to gently press excess oil away. Rubbing spreads bacteria and irritates skin.

✅ 4. Shower After Heavy Sweating

After the beach, a workout, or a hot commute, shower as soon as possible using a mild body wash and face cleanser.

• For body acne, use salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide-based cleansers on affected areas.
  
• Wear loose, breathable clothing to reduce sweat accumulation. 

What Skincare Products Are Safe to Use in Summer?

The goal is to hydrate without clogging, protect without suffocating, and treat without stripping.

Best ingredients for summer acne-prone skin:

• Salicylic acid: Exfoliates inside pores and prevents blackheads.
  
• Niacinamide: Calms inflammation, controls oil, and fades dark spots.
  
• Zinc: Helps reduce redness and regulate sebum production.
  
• Hyaluronic acid: Hydrates without heaviness.
  
• Azelaic acid: Fights bacteria and pigmentation. 

Avoid:

• Heavy oils (e.g., coconut, cocoa butter)
  
• Occlusive creams and thick foundations
  
• Harsh scrubs or alcohol-based toners
  

Pro tip: Switch from cream-based moisturizers to gel or fluid-texture formulas during summer.

How to Clean Blackheads Safely in Summer

Blackheads form when dead skin cells and sebum clog pores and oxidize. They become more visible in summer due to sweat and oil buildup.

Safe ways to remove blackheads:

• Use salicylic acid cleansers or toners daily.
  
• Apply a clay mask (e.g., kaolin or bentonite) 1–2 times a week to absorb excess oil.
  
• Use pore strips sparingly, only on the nose and with caution.
  
• Never pick or squeeze with bare fingers; it may cause scarring or infection.
  

Avoid aggressive extractions during peak sun exposure, as the skin may be more sensitive and prone to pigmentation.

How to Treat Acne Scars and Dark Spots in Summer

Sunlight can darken post-acne marks (PIH) and delay healing. Summer is the time to focus on prevention and gentle fading, not harsh peels or lasers.

Tips to fade acne marks:

• Wear broad-spectrum SPF 50 every day, even if indoors.
  
• Use niacinamide, azelaic acid, or tranexamic acid to reduce pigmentation.
  
• Apply Vitamin C in the morning under sunscreen for brightening effects.
  
• Stay away from retinoids or chemical exfoliants if you’re in strong sunlight daily.
  

Lifestyle Tips for Clearer Summer Skin

• Wash pillowcases and towels regularly to reduce bacteria buildup.
  
• Tie hair back during hot weather and avoid heavy conditioners near the hairline.
  
• Don’t touch your face with sweaty hands.
  
• Drink plenty of water and eat foods rich in zinc, omega-3, and antioxidants.
  

Professional Dermatological Solutions for Acne and Summer Skin Concerns

At Erdem Hospital in Istanbul, our dermatologists specialize in treating acne that worsens due to seasonal and environmental factors. We offer:

• Customized skincare plans for acne-prone and oily skin
  
• Medical-grade facials for blackhead extraction and pore cleansing
  
• Post-acne scar and pigmentation therapies
  
• Safe, summer-friendly treatments such as LED therapy, azelaic peels, and gentle resurfacing
  
• Personalized sunscreen and skincare product guidance based on skin type
  

With over 37 years of experience, Erdem Hospital combines medical precision with patient-centered care to help you enjoy a clearer, healthier complexion all summer long without the stress of breakouts.