Why breakout-prone skin needs defense

UV Rays

UV radiation dehydrates skin, causing it to over-produce oil – so skin ends up even oilier. The sun's UVB rays also cause sunburn and peeling, which generate excess dead skin cells. Excess oil and dead skin cells are two of the main factors that contribute to acne. Together, they clog follicles (pores), increasing the chances of breaking out.

If you have acne scars, UV rays can make them darker and more noticeable because scar tissue is highly sensitive to sunlight. Darkening is the skin's way of protecting itself from further damage.

Pollution

Airborne pollution also leads to skin dehydration and excess oil production, as well as inflammation, which makes existing acne look worse. Studies show that oily skin and acne increase with pollution, and that the effects of pollution may be even worse with UV exposure.^{1, 2}

Pore-Clogging Makeup

Going to bed with make-up on, or applying make-up over make-up from the day before, contributes to acne cosmetica, or acne that develops from wearing make-up. Telltale signs of acne cosmetica include many tiny bumps (whiteheads) on the cheeks, chin, lips, or forehead.

Dehydration

Not only is skin dehydration caused by UV rays and pollution, it's also caused by lifestyle habits like over-exfoliating and taking hot showers. These habits can compromise the skin's naturally protective outer layer, which is responsible for keeping moisture in.