25 Ways to Fight Redness and Heat-Related Breakouts

While barbecues and beaches are anticipated experiences associated with those not-so-endless summer days,  you could probably do without redness and heat-related breakouts. While these symptoms are common this time of the year, how do you know if you’re experiencing a heat rash or acne associated with sweating?

A heat rash is primarily caused by a void of airflow between your skin and clothing, leading to clogged sweat glands. The result is tiny, raised rash-like bumps and red, inflamed skin, though redness may be less noticeable on darker skin tones. A heat rash (scientifically called miliaria) can make your skin feel prickly, hence the nickname “prickly heat.” The condition may spread due to blocked sweat pathways, mainly where your clothing lies snuggly against your skin.

Heat-related breakouts appear when an increase in oil and sweat reacts to heat and humidity, creating a hotbed for acne-causing bacteria trapped in the pores, resulting in festered blemishes and blackheads.

Considering you will be exposing more skin than usual over the next few months, you should know how to clear these skin conditions ASAP. Here are 25 ways to fight redness and heat-related breakouts to bring you relief and comfort all season long.

Fighting and Preventing Heat Rashes and Redness

Summer weather isn’t the only cause of heat rashes. Frequent exercise, bed rest, fever, or living in a hot and humid climate year-round can also trigger a reaction. While it usually gets better on its own within a few days, here are some pro tips for preventing and treating prickly heat.

1. Wear loose, lightweight clothing made with moisture-wicking materials like cotton rather than synthetic materials like nylon or polyester. The fewer layers, the better!
2. Stay out of the heat and sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
3. Seek out air conditioning or a fan whenever possible, particularly when sleeping.
4. Keep your skin as dry as possible at all times.
5. Avoid physical activity when the weather is scorching and humid.
6. Steer clear of thick creams or ointments to prevent blocked pores.
7. Only use fragrance-free skin and body care to avert further irritation.
8. Take cool — not hot — showers and baths.
9. Avoid scratching your skin to prevent infection — apply an anti-itch cream like calamine lotion if necessary.
10. Apply a cool compress such as an ice pack or damp cloth for up to 20 minutes several times throughout the day.
11. Consider using medications such as antibiotic creams, corticosteroid lotions, antihistamine tablets, drying powders, or all-natural aloe vera gel.
12. Consult your doctor if you feel your bumpy rash has become infected, have a fever, or have any other unwanted side effects.

Fighting and Preventing Heat-Related Breakouts and Acne

Treat heat-related breakouts like any other acne irruption — if you already have acne-prone skin, you have a head start. However, if you’re new to sweat pimples, use these tips to keep bumps at bay.

13. Only use non-comedogenic, oil-free face and body products with acne-fighting ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulfur, and azelaic acid to unclog pores, remove dead skin cells, eliminate excess oil, and reduce inflammation.
14. Avoid aggressively scrubbing your skin, as this can cause more redness and spread bacteria, worsening breakouts.
15. Resist the urge to touch your face or pick at your blemishes.
16. Immediately remove damp clothing after working out, physical activity, or excessive sweating.
17. Keep your clothing, pillowcases, and sheets clean, as they are breeding grounds for acne-causing bacteria.
18. Even though you’re treating breakouts, don’t forget to moisturize your face and body. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), you can improve your acne by consistently using a moisturizer daily within four to eight weeks. A well-formulated acne-friendly moisturizer creates a thin film over the skin that can reduce oil (sebum) production.
19. Many acne-fighting ingredients make your skin more sun-sensitive, so make sure you always wear an oil-free full-spectrum sunscreen during the day. Sun exposure can also worsen acne scars, so apply an SPF of 30+ every two hours and after swimming and excessive sweating.
20. Try to give your skin a break from makeup when you can — sweat, and cosmetics are a recipe for disaster when it comes to acne. If you do prefer to wear cosmetics, opt for vegan makeup that’s cruelty-free and formulated without parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and fragrances. Also, allergy-tested products are less likely to cause an allergic reaction and escalate breakouts.
21. Consult a licensed skincare professional if over-the-counter remedies and lifestyle changes aren’t doing the trick. You may need a prescription topical or oral medication.

Creating a Good Skincare Routine

When it comes to preventing redness and heat-related breakouts, it’s vital to tweak your skincare routine when temperatures are on the rise to combat sweat, irritation, and acne-causing bacteria.

22. Switch up your routine to include vegan skincare. Typically formulated with clean ingredients, it is more forgiving on sensitized skin and less likely to clog pores, which can help prevent or reduce heat-related breakouts.
23. Don’t overlook the power of an effective toner. It can immediately refresh and hydrate red, sensitized skin. Pro tip: Keep it in the fridge to achieve soothing and cooling results with each spritz.
24. A face serum is an essential skincare product in everyone’s routine because it is concentrated and composed of smaller molecules. This means it can penetrate up to ten layers of your skin’s surface to help soothe, brighten, hydrate, minimize pores, fight acne, and regulate oil production.
25. You still need a lightweight moisturizer to lock in hydration and ward against external stressors that can compromise the skin barrier, especially when dealing with redness and heat-related breakouts.

While prickly heat and sweat-related breakouts are not considered souvenirs of summer, they can be effectively managed with a few lifestyle changes and a solid vegan skincare routine. Don’t let inflammation, bumps, and breakouts keep you from enjoying those 96 days of sun, sand, sea, and sips. With these tips, you can confidently take control of your skin health and enjoy the summer to the fullest.