For those of us who suffer from acne, hot, sweaty days can play havoc with our skin. No matter how well we eat or how good our skincare routine is, our face still breaks out in spots as soon as the temperature rises.
Excess oil, combined with dirt and sunscreen build-up, clogs our pores and aggravates acne. Furthermore, whilst sitting in the sun increases our skin’s ability to self-renew, the moment we go inside, or sit in the shade that process stops, leaving dead skin cells to further clog our pores.
What active ingredients help with acne?
Usually, acne skin care products will have a combination of active ingredients. But which are the key ingredients to look out for to really fight acne and prevent outbreaks?
Benzoyl peroxide. This ingredient kills bacteria that cause acne, helps to remove excess oil from the skin, and removes dead skin cells, which clog pores.
Salicylic acid. As well as exfoliating the skin surface, this ingredient can penetrate the skin, making it vital in the fight against acne. It acts as an anti-inflammatory and helps red, inflamed pimples go away faster.
Alpha-hydroxy acids. There are two types of alpha-hydroxy acids that are commonly used in acne products: glycolic acid and lactic acid. Alpha-hydroxy acids stimulate the growth of clearer and smoother skin, reducing the appearance of pores.
Best acne-fighting products?
For Benzoyl peroxide use Clarifying Lotion
Fast-acting benzoyl peroxide attacks acne-causing bacteria to treat acne, blackheads and clogged pores at the source. Botanical brighteners go to work on redness from existing and previous blemishes, helping fade the appearance of past acne marks and reducing irritation from active breakouts
For Salicylic acid use Blemish SOS
Decongesting and exfoliating from within the pore, salicylic acid breaks down the clogged oil and skin cells that can lead to blemishes.
For Glycolic acid use Balance Moisturiser and Glycolic Acid Activator
Balancing Moisturizer uses pre/probiotics to promote a healthy microbiome equilibrium on the skin surface. Formulated to decrease shine, leave the skin soft, soothed & matte without blocking pores, the Glycolic Acid Activator gently exfoliates the skin's surface.