In summer, everything seems to be better: the pimples fade, the skin seems clearer and we find ourselves to believe that we have finally finished with acne. But barely the start of the school year started, imperfections are surfaced, sometimes even more violently. Dr. Delphine Kerob, dermatologist at Saint-Louis AP-HP Hospital, explains this well-known phenomenon of specialists and delivers her advice to keep healthy skin after the holidays.
Why the acne disappears in summer but returns to the start of the school year
Many people observe an improvement in their acne during the holidays. The sun actually acts as a natural anti-inflammatory. “”Inflammation is one of the components of acne“, Specifies Dr. Kerob.”We sometimes use UVs to treat certain inflammatory diseases such as eczema and psoriasis“. In parallel, the UV rays thicken the skin, which clogs the pores. Result: the sebum accumulates discreetly, giving the impression that the pimples disappear while they are preparing to reappear at the start of the school year.
The right gestures to adopt during the summer
To avoid this famous rebound effect, it is better to anticipate from the summer period. The expert advises to protect her skin daily with an adapted sunscreen and to renew the application during the day. “”We also maintain local treatments against acne in the evening“, she recalls.”On the other hand, we avoid cycline type antibiotics, or the high doses of isotretinoin because it raises awareness in the sun in general“. She also warns:”Even when the lesions improve, UVs can leave tasks“. And add:”Besides, the more matte the skin, the more there is a risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation. These scars once they are there are hard to make left“.
Reflexes at the start of the school year to limit the rebound effect
Once summer is over, daily life resumes with its share of stress, pollution and small excesses. It is often at this time that pimples reappear massively. “”It’s a great classic“Confides the dermatologist.”We have a lot, many consultations at the start of the school year for sudden pushes of buttons“. To alleviate this return, it is advisable to continue its anti-acne treatment if a doctor has prescribed it, avoid exposing to the sun and favoring mild care. Aggressive scrubs or overly drying products are to be banished, because they weaken the skin and accentuate inflammation. Makeup, by obstructing pores, can also promote pushes: Possible.Do not hesitate to ask your dermatologist for advice“.