How to reduce body breakouts and bacne caused by the heatwave
The heat does some strange things to our skin. It can cause our makeup to melt, our pores to block and it can cause our oil glands to go into overdrive – and it’s not just our faces that a few extra degrees can have an impact on.
Bacne, aka back acne, and body acne can pop up out of nowhere, even if you’ve never been a sufferer before. And if you’re finding your skin is flaring up this past month, it could be a result of the heatwave, say skin experts.
“People tend to suffer from acne more in the summer because the hot weather means that we sweat more, so more oil accumulates on the skin. This then acts to block pores, fuels bacteria and ultimately result in spots,” explains Dr Lauren Hamilton, cosmetic doctor and co-founder of London skin clinic, Victor & Garth.
“The dreaded ‘bacne’ and breakouts across other areas of the body such as the chest and upper arms can also be exacerbated by the heat, which is why you might be suffering from breakouts more so now than ever.”
So what’s the fix, we hear you asking?
Dr Hamilton says it’s actually very simple. “Use a product that contains a BHA such as benzoic or salicylic acid. These remove dead skin cells and debris from the surface of the skin, working to unclog pores and stop spots from forming,” she says.
“You also need to choose your skincare products carefully in the heat as they can cause irritation. SPF is obviously non-negotiable, but try to choose one that’s oil free. As for your moisturiser, go for something not too thick as it could block pores.”
We love…
Ameliorate Transforming Body Lotion
A cult classic product and a long-time favourite with beauty editors, this body moisturiser contains a lactic acid complex to gently exfoliate and moisturise the skin. It works wonders on keratosis pilaris, the little bumps often found on the tops of arms, and has been touted in online reviews as an excellent cream for keeping bacne at bay.
The full-size cream usually costs £22.50 but we have a travel-perfect size in our OK! Beauty Box Summer Survival Kit. The box is packed with 14 products worth over £200 but you can save 80% on the RRP and pick one up today for only £35 here.
The Original Scrub Co Coffee Scrub
This coffee-based body scrub is packed with natural minerals, antioxidants and exfoliants – perfect for a weekly in-shower treatment. Some studies also suggest that the chlorogenic acids in coffee may reduce inflammation and protect against some strains of bacteria that cause spots.
A full-size packet costs £11 but you’ll find a 50g sachet in our Summer Survival Kit.