Ah, summer! The sun is shining, the days are long, and vacation is just around the corner. But with all that sunny bliss comes one catch that can ruin this magical time: post-sun breakouts. You know that one? You have a perfect day sunbathing, feeling radiant, and then, a few days later, blemishes start to appear .
So why do these little annoyances seem to appear right after you've been out in the sun? In this article, we'll explain everything, demystify the link between the sun and spots, and give you tips on how to protect your skin while enjoying the summer.
The sun and the skin: a complicated relationship 😅
A tan that hides its game well
Let's start with a fact that many people don't know: the sun, while synonymous with well-being and a healthy glow, can also be a false friend for your skin. When you expose yourself to the sun, your skin produces more sebum to protect itself. This may seem harmless, but for those who already have oily or combination skin, this is bad news. More sebum often means more chances of seeing blemishes appear.
In addition, the sun thickens the stratum corneum (the outermost part of the skin). At the time, this gives the impression of smoother and more even skin, thus hiding small imperfections. But after the summer, when the skin begins to regenerate and this thick layer falls off, the pores become clogged, and the pimples make a big comeback. Yes, it is not the sun itself that causes pimples, but the reactions of your skin afterwards!
Why do we get spots after sun exposure?
The mystery behind post-sun pimples lies in this famous exacerbated sebum production. Sebum is a natural substance that helps hydrate the skin, but in excess, it can clog pores. And when these clogged pores meet bacteria, that's when pimples appear.
Another factor to consider is the rebound effect. The sun dries out your skin, and your body, in response, produces even more oil to compensate for this loss of moisture. It's a vicious cycle that can lead to breakouts, even after you've left the beach.
If you have sensitive or redness-prone skin , the sun can make these symptoms worse, creating a breeding ground for new blemishes to appear.
How to avoid pimples after sun exposure? ☀️
Hydration: The Key to Avoiding Pimples
It can never be said enough: moisturizing your skin is crucial, especially after prolonged exposure to the sun. Well-hydrated skin is healthy skin, capable of defending itself against external aggressions. Use a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer suited to your skin type , whether you have dry, oily or combination skin.
A hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid can also be a great option to provide deep hydration without weighing down the skin. And for those who prefer a lighter texture, opt for a hydrating gel that won't leave a greasy film on your face. COSRX's Advanced Snail 92 All-in-One Cream is one of the best!
A tailored care routine
To avoid those famous post-sun pimples, it is essential to adopt a skincare routine that is adapted to your skin type. A good cleansing morning and evening with a gentle cleansing gel to remove impurities and excess sebum is essential. Avoid overly aggressive cleansers that could dry out your skin and cause the rebound effect we talked about earlier.
If you don’t know what skin type you have, don’t worry! Holy Skin offers a free skin diagnosis to help you choose the best products for your needs. Their Korean skincare store also offers ready-made routines for each skin type , which can really simplify your life and improve the condition of your skin after summer.
Solar products: a strategic choice 🧴
Choosing the Right Sunscreen
You may think that all sunscreens are created equal, but think again! The wrong sunscreen for your skin type can also be the cause of post-sun breakouts. If you have oily skin , opt for a non-comedogenic sunscreen , which is formulated to not clog pores. Sunscreen gels or lightweight creams are usually good options to avoid the "greasy" effect on the skin. Beauty of Joseon's Relief Sun Cream is the most popular!
An essential after-sun treatment
Don’t forget to take care of your skin after sun exposure. Soothing after-sun products, such as those with aloe vera or rice , can help reduce inflammation and calm the skin. These products help restore the skin’s hydrolipidic barrier , which is crucial for avoiding blemishes.
FAQ: Why do we get spots after sun exposure? 💬
1. Does sun really improve acne?
On the surface, yes, the sun can temporarily improve acne by drying out spots and giving a more even complexion. But beware, this effect is often short-lived. As mentioned before, once the skin starts to regenerate, acne can come back with a vengeance, sometimes even worse than before. Holy Skin offers an Acne Skin Routine , specially designed to effectively fight acne and regulate sebum production!
2. Should I avoid the sun completely if I have breakout-prone skin?
Not necessarily. Enjoying the sun in moderation while taking precautions is key. Use a suitable sunscreen , moisturize your skin well and cleanse it thoroughly. If you follow these steps, you will be able to enjoy the sun without too much worry.
3. What to do if pimples persist after summer?
If pimples continue to appear well after summer, it may be a good idea to consult a dermatologist. In the meantime, opt for gentle, non-comedogenic skincare products, and don't forget to moisturize your skin regularly.
The solutions offered by Korean skincare ✅
Korean skincare has a proven track record of delivering spectacular results while being gentle on the skin. At Holy Skin , we offer tailored routines that cater to the specific needs of every skin type, including those prone to blemishes. Products like hydrating masks , lightweight creams , and oil-controlling serums can make all the difference after sun exposure.
Our site not only offers ready-to-use routines, but also a free skin diagnosis to help you understand the specific needs of your skin. Remember that taking care of your skin also means anticipating problems rather than simply treating them.
To conclude on why do we get spots after the sun? 🌞
It’s totally possible to enjoy the sun without paying the price with unwanted breakouts. The key is prevention and choosing the right products for your skin type. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, there are solutions tailored to prevent these blemishes from appearing. Remember to adopt a skincare routine that suits your needs, and don’t hesitate to explore Korean skincare for optimal results.
Now you know a little more about why we get spots after the sun and how to avoid them. By following these tips, you can ensure glowing skin all year round, even after enjoying the sun!
