Don’t Panic and Pop that Zit

The onset of the post-spring, warm season causes an increase in the incidence of acne, a frustrating skin condition. It affects all age groups--from teenagers to adults. The itchy, painful boils are a sore sight and are bad for one’s self-esteem. People have been known to panic and cancel socializing altogether, to avoid being seen infected with acne. What happens to the skin, to make it behave in a way, which is completely ‘out of character’, when the warm weather sets in?

The onset of the warm season causes bacterial activity in the skin to intensify. The body temperature increases, making oil glands in the skin produce more sebum (oil). Bacterial activity, coupled with production of greasy elements in the skin, interacts with atmospheric pollutants and dust. This causes infections that show up as pimples, making it a long summer of discomfort.

Our skin becomes a high-maintenance asset in summer, needing constant cleansing, scrubbing, toning, and moisturizing. Cooling facial masks have to be applied from time to time, in order to keep it healthy and rejuvenated. In tropical countries, the skin also needs to be protected against the harsh rays of the sun. The blemish-free, baby soft skin of winter becomes a pleasant memory.

The first instinct on the appearance of a zit is to pop the itchy, painful thing. However, it’s to be remembered that patience pays. Squeezing, popping, and picking at acne can lead to infection and scarring.

Mild acne can be treated with good skin care and acne products available over the counter. However, severe acne can only be successfully controlled with treatment from a dermatologist.

Try the following best practices for a no-acne summer:

1. Exercise regularly. Exercising, especially in summer, helps one lose weight and improves blood circulation to the skin. This flushes out toxins from the body. The fresh morning breeze also does wonders to impart an added glow to the skin.

2. Drink water whenever thirsty. Drinking lots of water, and eating fresh vegetables and fruits help build overall health, which is reflected in good-looking skin. It is advisable to add a lot of fibers to one’s daily diet. Intake of oily foods, junk food, fizzy drinks, tea, coffee, and alcohol should be minimized. Smoking should be avoided altogether. Our body needs to be detoxified in the hot season to see the wonders it does to the condition of the skin.

3. Wash your face gently. Gentle washing of the face, from under the jaw to the hairline twice a day with a cleanser or mild soap is advisable. Rinse your face thoroughly. Also, wash after heavy exercise.

4. Do not pick at pimples. Resist the temptation to pop your pimples. You may use a non-comedogenic sunscreen of a minimum of SPF 15, in case you spend a lot of time in the sun.

5. Try not to stay out in the sun for long periods. Excessive sun exposure isn’t good for acne. This is more so in case of skin that is undergoing medication for acne, as it tends to get sunburnt easily. Also, over-exposure to the sun prematurely ages the skin.

6. Avoid tight clothing. Tight hats, tees, slacks, and backpacks rub and irritate the skin. Wear airy and loose clothing. Pick and choose clothing materials that suit you, cotton being the safest bet here.