7 Things That Are Making You Break Out This Summer

Breaking out in the summertime can be seriously depressing. Nothing ruins a day at the pool like worrying about an acne spot or blemish. However, did you ever think that it could be your summer essentials that are breaking you out? From thick lotions to pool chemicals, there is a world of irritants out there ready to wreck havoc on your skin. Having said that, summer couldn't be a better time to rethink the products that you use. As seasons change, so does your skin. Simple changes can make a world of difference in your complexion. For example, as it heats up outside, you may no longer need to use your heavier products.

Switch to lighter, oil-free options in order to maintain healthy skin. It's important to not only having your skin look its best, but also feeling its best. Other than our own moisturizers and lotions, there are several things that come in contact with our skin daily that we never think about. From our hands to our cell phones, germs reach our skin whether we like it or not. But before you put yourself in a bubble, think about all of the pore clogging things you can prevent coming into contact with your skin. For summertime, it's always best to avoid products with heavy oils and synthetic scents. Take a look through your beauty supply, and ditch the products that fit these categories. Just being aware of what's causing your skin to break out is the first step to preventing future flare-ups. Wondering what those things might be? Here are just a few summertime essentials that could be causing your break outs.

1. Sunscreen

We know that sunscreen is extremely important for your skin, but research shows that many sunscreen contain acne-causing ingredients. Waterproof and dry spray formulas generally contain these harsher chemicals. Make sure to always use a sunscreen that is specifically formulated for the face. Try the Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion or the Kiss My Face Face Factor Sunscreen in order to avoid acne spots this summer.

Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion, $10, Amazon; Kiss My Face Factor Sunscreen, $8, Amazon

2. Bug Spray

Burt's Bees Herbal Insect Repellent, $10, Amazon

Bug sprays are a complete necessity for summertime hikes, however, these sprays could be breaking you out. The chemicals used in bug spray contain ingredients that clog your pores in order to reduce the body oils that are so tasty to mosquitos and other bugs. Clogging pores is an instant recipe for breakouts. In order to avoid pesky bugs and pesky breakouts, try either Burt's Bees Herbal Insect Repellent or lemon eucalyptus oil as an all-natural solution.

3. Cell Phones

This is a no-brainer. Think of all of the things that your cell phone touches in a day. Whether it's your kitchen counter or your desk at work, your cell phone has been collecting a host of germs throughout the day. In order to keep your phone germ-free, make sure to wipe down the screen with a disinfecting wipe.

4. Pool-Side Cocktails

It's time to face a sad truth — sugary cocktails may be the reason that you are breaking out. Whether it's the sugar content or simply the plethora of alcohol, cocktails aren't exactly good for the skin. I'm not saying to avoid them all together, but make sure to keep hydrated with water. Sugar and alcohol can wreak havoc on the skin, so be sure to always have a glass of water on hand to help balance the effects.

5. Heavy Fabrics

Acne doesn't just occur on your face. Bumps can appear all over your skin, so it's best to wear light, breathable fabrics come summertime. Sweat and grime can get trapped in heavier fabrics, so ditch the thicker materials for lighter options.

6. Pools

Think of all of those chemicals in the pool. Do you really want those caking onto your skin, and clogging your pores? I didn't think so. Showering post-swimming is always the best option.

7. Self-Tanning Lotion

Many tanning products contain oily ingredients that clog pores and irrirtate the skin. If your looking for a self-tanner, make sure to find one that is oil-free, alcohol-free, and noncomedogenic. Think that's too good to be true? Try Jan Marini Bioglycolic Sunless Self-Tanner for a safe, acne-free glow.

Jan Marini Bioglycolic Sunless Self-Tanner, $54, Amazon

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