DOES THE SUN IMPROVE ACNE? WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE EXPOSURE

Dr. Riccardo Matera, Research and Development

With the arrival of summer, a very frequent question returns: does the sun improve acne or risk worsening it?

During the first days at the beach, some people notice skin that appears drier, more even, and with fewer imperfections. This improvement, however, does not affect all forms of acne and, above all, may only be temporary.

The relationship between sun and acne is indeed more complex than it might seem. The effects of exposure depend on the skin type, the type of acne, the duration of exposure, and the protection used.

As explained by Dr. Riccardo Matera, BeC Research and Development, the sun should not be considered a cure for acne: it can offer an initial benefit in some cases, but excessive or unprotected exposure can lead to new imperfections, inflammation, and skin spots.

Why does acne seem to improve in the sun?

In milder and more superficial manifestations, especially in the presence of seborrheic skin, sun exposure can initially make the skin drier and temporarily reduce the visibility of redness and imperfections.

Sunlight indeed exerts a transient anti-inflammatory action, which can make the skin appear more even. Seawater, by temporarily helping to dry the skin surface, can also enhance this sensation.

However, this is a delicate balance. Dermatological literature confirms that sunlight can produce a brief improvement, but also highlights the risks associated with exposure to ultraviolet rays, including photoaging and skin damage. Therefore, if pimples seem to decrease during the first few days of vacation, it does not mean that acne is actually healing.

Why can the sun worsen acne?

When the skin is exposed intensely or without adequate protection, it can react by increasing the thickness of the superficial layer. This defense mechanism can promote the accumulation of sebum and dead cells within the pores.

At the end of summer, the so-called rebound effect can occur, meaning a reappearance or increase in imperfections.

Ultraviolet rays can also alter the characteristics of sebum, increasing its ability to obstruct follicles and contribute to the appearance of acneiform manifestations. Scientific literature dedicated to the relationship between sun exposure and acne highlights that solar radiation can promote flare-ups, inflammation, and pigmentary changes subsequent to acne lesions. Therefore, the sun can transform from an apparent ally into a factor capable of worsening the skin condition.

Sun and comedonal acne: pay attention to blackheads and whiteheads

Particular attention is required in the presence of comedonal acne, characterized mainly by:

• blackheads

• whiteheads

• clogged pores

• uneven skin texture

In these conditions, the superficial thickening caused by excessive sun exposure can further hinder the natural outflow of sebum.

The result can be increased comedo formation, which often becomes evident in the weeks following exposure. The initial improvement should therefore not be interpreted as an acne treatment.

Can the sun leave scars after pimples?

Sun exposure can make the spots left by imperfections more visible and persistent.

When an inflamed pimple heals, a reddish or darker area, called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, may remain. Ultraviolet radiation can intensify this pigmentation and slow down its gradual fading.

Daily photoprotection is therefore important not only to prevent sunburn and photoaging, but also to limit the accentuation of post-acne spots. In the presence of hyperpigmentation in exposed areas, daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen is recommended to prepare acne-prone skin for sun exposure.

Before sun exposure, it is useful to adopt a simple, consistent, and skin-balancing skincare routine.

Overly aggressive cleansing, performed with degreasing products or repeated excessively, can weaken the skin barrier and cause irritation. Impure skin should not be "degreased" at all costs, but gently cleansed.

1. Cleanse the skin thoroughly

Cleansing helps remove impurities, sweat, cosmetic residues, and excess sebum.

For impure or acne-prone skin, MousseBi can be used, incorporating it into the daily routine to cleanse the face without aggressive rubbing.

It is important to gently massage the product and rinse with water, avoiding abrasive brushes and intense scrubs on inflamed areas.

2. Use a gentle mask

Once a week, cleansing can be complemented with the Nuova Maschera, designed to accompany the routine of skin that needs a deeper cleanse.

However, the frequency must be adapted to the characteristics and sensitivity of one's skin. In the presence of severe irritation, deep lesions, or dermatological therapies, it is preferable to consult a specialist before introducing new cosmetics.

3. Always apply sunscreen

Having impure skin does not mean having to forgo sunscreen.

On the contrary, protection is essential because it helps defend the skin from UV rays and limit the accentuation of redness and post-imperfection spots.

Dermatological guidelines recommend broad-spectrum, water-resistant protection with SPF 30 or higher. For acne-prone skin, it is also advisable to choose products labeled as non-comedogenic, formulated not to promote pore obstruction.

Acne in summer: good habits to follow

To enjoy summer without subjecting the skin to excessive stress, it is important to follow some simple rules:

1. Expose yourself gradually, avoiding the hours when the sun's rays are most intense

2. Apply adequate sunscreen every day

3. Reapply the product after swimming or intense sweating

4. Gently cleanse the face after the sea, pool, or sports activities

5. Do not squeeze or manipulate pimples and blackheads

6. Avoid abrasive scrubs on inflamed areas

7. Keep the skin hydrated with products suitable for its characteristics

8. Wear a hat and glasses and seek shade when possible

Touching or squeezing imperfections can increase inflammation and promote the appearance of persistent marks.

The sun can be enjoyed with serenity, but always with awareness and protection!