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Avoid Acne in Summer with THESE Drugstore Skincare Products (you're probably missing number 3)

Struggling with breakouts in the summer? As a licensed esthetician and med spa director, I’m breaking down the exact products and strategies I recommend to keep acne-prone skin clear, calm, and protected during hot, humid months — without sacrificing glow or SPF. This guide isn’t about trial and error — it’s about what actually works. From cleansers and antioxidants to non-comedogenic sunscreens and retinoids, I walk you through a no-fluff, summer-proof skincare routine designed to fight breakouts, minimize irritation, and support your skin barrier.

How I Keep My Acne-Prone Skin Clear in Summer (As an Esthetician)

Summer can be brutal for acne-prone skin—heat, humidity, chlorine, and frequent sunscreen reapplication can trigger breakouts. As a licensed esthetician and Med Spa director, here’s my no-nonsense guide to managing acne in the heat.

Key Takeaways for Acne-Prone Summer Skincare

1. Morning Routine: Cleanse, Protect, Prevent

  1. Cleanser: Start with a gentle yet effective cleanser like Prequel Gleanser to remove sweat, oil, and debris without stripping the skin.

  2. Antioxidant Serum: The Naturium Vitamin C Complex Serum hydrates while defending against UV-induced free radicals.

  3. Treatment: Naturium Azelaic Acid Emulsion 10% keeps pores clear, reduces inflammation, and prevents pigmentation. Skip if too strong—opt for their Azelaic Topical Acid (a gentler derivative).

  4. Moisturizer: Naturium Multi-Peptide Moisturizer supports barrier health without clogging pores.

  5. Sunscreen:

    1. Dewy Finish: Black Girl Sunscreen Kids SPF 50 (glowy, affordable, and acne-safe).

    2. Natural Finish: Naturium UV Reflect SPF 50 (lightweight, demi-matte).

Pro Tip: If you need tinted/mineral coverage, Neutrogena Mineral UV Tint SPF 30 is a solid choice—just reapply often!

2. Midday Maintenance: Stay Clean & Protected

  1. Reapply Sunscreen every 2 hours—skip makeup to avoid interference.

  2. Clean Hands Before Touching Face: Use alcohol wipes (like Target’s baby wipe-sized ones) to prevent bacteria transfer.

  3. Hypochlorous Acid Spray (like Prequel Universal Skin Solution) reduces bacteria and irritation from sweat/pollution.

3. Evening Routine: Deep Cleanse & Repair

  1. Double Cleanse:

    1. CeraVe Cream-to-Foam Cleanser (breaks down sunscreen and sweat).

    2. Prequel Gleanser (gentle second cleanse).

  2. Hydrate & Repair: Reapply Naturium Vitamin C Serum to replenish antioxidants.

  3. Acne Treatment:

    1. Adapalene (Differin Gel 0.1%) – Gold standard for acne; boosts collagen too.

    2. Sensitive Skin? Try Naturium Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.05% (gentler but effective).

  4. Moisturize: Vanicream Moisturizing Cream (rich but non-comedogenic).

Why Retinoids in Summer?

Contrary to myth, you don’t need to stop retinoids—just protect your skin with SPF, hats, and shade.

Final Thoughts

This routine balances clear skin and sun protection without overcomplicating things. The key? Consistency, gentle actives, and SPF reapplication.

Watch the full video here for deeper explanations.