If your skin seems more congested this time of year, here’s why. And what you can do to keep your complexion clear.

Why Summer Can Trigger Acne

Heat and Sweat

When temperatures climb, your body naturally produces more sweat to stay cool. Sweat itself doesn’t cause acne, but when it mixes with excess oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, pores can become clogged. Leaving sweaty clothing on after a workout or spending hours outdoors without washing your face can increase your risk of breakouts.

Healthy Habit: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser as soon as possible after exercising or prolonged sweating. If you can’t wash immediately, use an oil-free facial cleansing wipe until you can.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen

Daily sunscreen is one of the best things you can do for your skin, but not every sunscreen is ideal for acne-prone skin.

Look for products labeled:

• Non-comedogenic
• Oil-free
• Lightweight or gel-based
• Designed for the face

Heavy or greasy sunscreens can contribute to clogged pores, especially during hot Texas summers. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide work well for sensitive or acne-prone skin. Choose the formula that fits your skin type.

Remember: Don’t skip sunscreen because you’re worried about acne. Sun exposure can worsen inflammation, increase the risk of post-acne dark spots, and contribute to premature aging and skin cancer.

Sports Equipment Can Cause “Acne Mechanica”

Athletes often experience a type of acne known as acne mechanica, which develops when heat, sweat, and pressure work together to irritate the skin. Additionally, athletes often develop acne mechanica due to friction.

Common culprits include:

• Football helmets
• Baseball caps
• Chin straps
• Shoulder pads
• Bike helmets
• Golf hats
• Tennis visors
• Backpack straps

As a result, these areas often develop breakouts on the forehead, chin, jawline, shoulders, or upper back.

To help prevent acne mechanica:

• Shower soon after practice or workouts.
• Wash helmets, hats, and chin straps regularly.
• Avoid wearing sweaty clothing for extended periods.
• Choose moisture-wicking fabrics when possible.

Don’t Forget About “Bacne”

Summer clothing exposes the shoulders and back, making back acne more noticeable.

If you’re experiencing breakouts on your chest or back:

• Change out of sweaty clothes promptly.
• Shower after exercising.
• Avoid tight-fitting clothing that traps heat and sweat.
• Use body washes containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide

Avoid These Common Summer Mistakes

Many well-intentioned habits can actually make acne worse.

Avoid:

• Scrubbing your skin aggressively
• Sleeping in sunscreen or makeup
• Picking or popping pimples
• Using heavy oils to “moisturize” sun-damaged skin
• Over-washing your face, which can increase irritation and oil production

A gentle, consistent skincare routine is almost always more effective than harsh products.

When It’s Time to See a Dermatologist

If over-the-counter products aren’t improving your acne after several weeks, or your breakouts are painful, cystic, or leaving scars, it’s time to schedule an evaluation.

Acne isn’t just a teenage concern. Adults frequently develop acne due to hormones, stress, medications, skincare products, or environmental factors. The good news is that effective treatment options are available for nearly every type of acne.

At DeSilva Dermatology, we create personalized treatment plans based on your skin type, lifestyle, and goals. Whether you’re preparing for the school year, fall sports, or simply want healthier skin, we can help you regain confidence and prevent long-term scarring.

Ready for Clearer Skin?

If summer breakouts are interfering with your confidence, don’t wait until cooler weather to seek treatment. 

Schedule your appointment with DeSilva Dermatology today and get personalized acne treatment that keeps your skin clear all summer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Summer Acne

1. Why does my acne get worse in the summer?

Heat, humidity, sweat, and increased oil production can clog pores more easily during summer months. Sunscreen, sports equipment, and outdoor activities can also contribute to breakouts.

2. Does sweating cause acne?

Sweat itself doesn’t cause acne, but when it mixes with oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells, it can clog pores. Showering or cleansing your face after sweating helps reduce breakouts.

3. Can sunscreen make acne worse?

Yes, heavy or oily sunscreens can clog pores. Choose non‑comedogenic, oil‑free, or gel‑based formulas designed for the face, especially if you have acne‑prone skin.

4. What is acne mechanica?

Acne mechanica is acne caused by friction, pressure, heat, and sweat. It’s common in athletes who wear helmets, hats, chin straps, shoulder pads, or tight clothing.

5. How can I prevent back acne (“bacne”) in the summer?

Shower after sweating, avoid tight clothing, change out of sweaty shirts quickly, and use body washes with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.

6. Should I stop using moisturizer or sunscreen if I’m breaking out?

No. Skipping sunscreen increases inflammation and dark spots, and skipping moisturizer can cause more oil production. Instead, switch to lightweight, non‑comedogenic products.

7. When should I see a dermatologist for acne?

If your acne is painful, cystic, leaving scars, or not improving after several weeks of over‑the‑counter treatments, a dermatologist can create a personalized plan to clear your skin.

The post Summer Acne: Why Heat, Sweat, Sunscreen, and Sports Can Trigger Breakouts appeared first on San Antonio & Boerne Dermatologist.

If you live in the Texas Hill Country and are searching for skin tightening, acne scar treatment or facial rejuvenation without surgery, Secret RF microneedling is one of the most advanced solutions available today.

At DeSilva Dermatology, we’re proud to offer Secret RF, a cutting-edge treatment designed to deliver smoother, firmer, and healthier-looking skin with minimal downtime.  

Secret RF is a radiofrequency (RF) microneedling treatment that stimulates collagen production deep within the skin. By combining microneedles with controlled RF energy, this treatment remodels skin from the inside out to achieve:

• Collagen and elastin production
• Skin tightening
• Tissue remodeling
• Improved texture, tone and firmness

Unlike many laser treatments, Secret RF targets deeper layers while leaving the outer skin largely intact, making it safe and effective for all skin types.

In South Texas, sun exposure and heat can accelerate:

• Skin aging
• Sun damage
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Uneven skin tone

Secret RF is ideal for reversing these concerns while fitting into busy lifestyles thanks to its quick treatment time and minimal downtime.

Secret RF is highly effective for:

• Acne scars and surgical scars
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Loose or sagging skin (non-surgical facelift alternative)
• Enlarged pores (pore reduction)
• Sun damage
• Uneven skin texture

It’s a versatile solution for both men and women across all skin types.

What to Expect at DeSilva Dermatology

Your Secret RF treatment includes:

• A quick 15–20 minute in-office session
• Topical numbing cream for comfort
• Minimal discomfort (warmth + light pressure)
• Little to no downtime

Most patients experience mild redness for 12–24 hours, making it easy to return to daily activities quickly.

For optimal results DeSilva Dermatology recommends:

• 3–4 treatments spaced 4–6 weeks apart
• Visible improvement after the second session
• Full results develop over 3 months after your final treatment Maintenance treatments can then help preserve your results long-term. Why Choose DeSilva Dermatology?

At DeSilva Dermatology, we combine advanced technology with personalized care. Our experienced team customizes each Secret RF treatment to your skin type, goals, and lifestyle, ensuring natural-looking, long-lasting results.

Is Secret RF Right for You?

You may be a great candidate if you:

• Want facial rejuvenation without surgery
• Are concerned about wrinkles, scars, or sun damage
• Prefer treatments with minimal downtime
• Are looking for a safe option for your skin type

Ready to improve your skin with one of the most advanced RF microneedling treatments available?

Learn more about Secret RF or Schedule your consultation with DeSilva Dermatology today and discover how Secret RF can help you achieve smoother, tighter, more radiant skin.

The post Secret RF Microneedling: The Non-Surgical Solution for Skin Tightening and Acne Scars appeared first on San Antonio & Boerne Dermatologist.

“It can be true in certain circumstances,” says DeSilva Dermatology’s Dr. Thushan DeSilva. “Some over-the-counter sunscreens contain chemicals that can actually clog the pores and cause breakouts as well as other skin irritations.”

Some chemical sunscreens contain oils that convert UV light to heat, causing you to sweat more and clog pores. However, noncomedogenic (or mineral-based) sunscreens, such as those offered by Elta MD, are oil-free and don’t make you sweat or clog your pores.

In fact, some sunscreens can actually help with breakouts and acne. “UV rays can dry out the skin, which can result in excessive oil production as a way to compensate for the damage,” continued Dr. DeSilva. This clogs the pores and triggers breakouts. However, the right kind of sunscreen actually prevents the skin from drying, thereby preventing the excretion of excess oil.

Sunscreen can also aid in reducing other skin conditions. If you already have acne scars and dark spots, the right sunscreen can prevent them from becoming more pronounced. Rosacea is another disorder that can cause flare-ups when skin is exposed to the sun, and sunscreen can help prevent those as well.

As with all skincare solutions, it’s important to select the right sunscreen for your skin type. If you have oily skin and are susceptible to breakouts, you’ll want to pick a noncomedogenic, oil-free sunscreen such as EltaMD UV Clear.

Sunscreen can also help improve acne in other ways, including preventing and protecting already existing acne and dark spots. To accomplish this, you need to find the right sunscreen for your skin type.

Other ingredients in some sunscreens that can help acne-prone skin are:

• Zinc oxide. Not only is this ingredient anti-inflammatory, it helps with redness and acne.
• This ingredient is also an anti-inflammatory that helps reduce redness.

There are more issues than just breakouts to consider as well. Sunscreens help to reduce the chances of developing squamous cell carcinoma by 40% while lowering the risk of melanoma by about 50%. They can also help to prevent premature aging caused by the skin drying and lines deepening.

And remember — just because we’re currently experiencing overcast winter days with cooler temperatures, that’s not a reason to stop using sunscreen. The sun’s rays can penetrate the thickest clouds. About 80%, as a matter of fact.

Since everyone has different skincare needs, it’s important to consult a professional dermatologist about what’s right for you. Dr. DeSilva can guide you in making the right choices.

Dr. DeSilva recommends a sunscreen of at least 30 SPF. He also recommends that it complements other treatments that are already in your skincare regimen. Contact us for a skincare exam and recommendation.

The post Fact or Fiction: Sunscreen Causes Acne appeared first on San Antonio & Boerne Dermatologist.

As the years go by, your skin type may change, but there are always methods you can use to combat these effects. Check out this list and see where your skin type fits right now…

LET’S BEGIN

Take a close look at your skin. If it seems just right, not too dry or oily, with minimal flaws and an overall radiant glow, you have what can be considered normal skin. However, there are many more people with other skin types that need special care, including:

OILY SKIN

Oily skin is characterized by a dull or shiny complexion, large pores and blackheads or pimples (as a result of the buildup of dirt in the pores). Neglecting this condition will only make matters worse, leading to infections and even permanent scarring.

DRY SKIN

The polar opposite of oily skin, dry skin tends to have smaller pores, a rough complexion and red patches. Facial lines become more apparent, and such irritations as flaking and redness can occur. Those with chronic dry skin tend to look older that they need to.

SENSITIVE SKIN

This skin type is most likely to react to the environment. Sun exposure, lack of hydration and smoking can cause flare-ups in those with sensitive skin types. Symptoms include itching, dryness, redness and a burning sensation. Scarring and premature aging are just two of the potential symptoms of sensitive skin.

COMBINATION SKIN

If your skin seems perfectly normal in some areas, yet it appears dry or excessively oily in others, you have what’s known as combination skin. Many people do. It can be characterized by larger pores, blackheads and excessive shininess. Using the same cleansers and moisturizers on every skin area can make matters worse — the dry spots get dryer and the oily areas get oilier.

HOW TO KEEP YOUR SKIN LOOKING ITS BEST

• Use sunscreen and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.

UV rays damage the skin and make it age faster. They also put you at risk of contracting skin cancers such as melanoma.

• Use dermatologist-recommended cleansers and conditioners that are appropriate for your skin type.

If you care about your skin, don’t just grab any over-the-counter soap or lotion. Consult your dermatologist for expert advice.

• Remove your makeup before bedtime.

Makeup clogs your pores and inhibits your skin’s ability to breathe. If you sleep in makeup, you’ll continually grind it into your pores, resulting in irritation, breakouts and more.

• Keep your skin moisturized.

Keep in mind that your skin is an organ, and it needs to be respected as such. Moisturizing wards off aging and helps to prevent diseases such as eczema. It also helps your skin to rebuild itself – which it does so normally — to give you that healthy glow.

DeSilva Dermatology in Boerne, Texas, has the experience and commitment to excellence to handle all of your dermatological concerns. Since 2000, Dr. Thushan DeSilva has been providing the Alamo City and Boerne with the finest skin care, both medical and cosmetic. Schedule an appointment now and let DeSilva Dermotology take care of all of your skin care needs.

Dr. DeSilva says, “The single most important thing you can do for your skin is to use sunscreen with SPF of 30 or more with zinc oxide. And don’t forget to reapply!”

The post Do You Know Your Skin Type? appeared first on San Antonio & Boerne Dermatologist.