The sun is generally bad for spots (acne). While initial sun exposure might seem to improve acne, this effect is temporary and is followed by a worsening of the condition.
Here's a breakdown of why sun exposure is detrimental to acne-prone skin:
-
Temporary Improvement (Deceptive Effect): Sun exposure can initially reduce inflammation and dry out the skin's surface, leading to a perceived improvement in acne. This is primarily due to the sun's ability to suppress the immune system in the skin.
-
Increased Sebum Production: Following sun exposure, the skin often compensates for the dryness by producing more sebum (oil). Excess sebum clogs pores, leading to new breakouts.
-
Thickening of the Skin: Sun exposure can thicken the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). This thickening can trap sebum and dead skin cells within the pores, contributing to comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) and inflammatory acne lesions.
-
Inflammation: While sun exposure can initially reduce inflammation, prolonged or repeated exposure can actually increase inflammation in the skin, exacerbating acne.
-
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): Sun exposure can darken post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), the dark spots that remain after acne lesions have healed. This makes existing spots more visible and can prolong their appearance.
-
Medication Interactions: Many acne medications, such as retinoids and benzoyl peroxide, increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun. This can lead to sunburn, irritation, and further inflammation, worsening acne.
In summary, while there may be a short-term positive effect, the long-term effects of sun exposure on acne-prone skin are overwhelmingly negative. Protecting your skin from the sun with sunscreen and avoiding excessive sun exposure is crucial for managing acne.
