Q. I CAN USUALLY KEEP MY SPOTS UNDER CONTROL BUT THEY REALLY FLARE UP IN SUMMER. COULD IT BE ALL THOSE GREASY SUN CREAMS? Amelia, 23, London
A. People say that the sun is good for acne but that's a myth; in fact it often makes it worse because you produce more sebum when you sweat, which can block pores. Opt for a non-comedogenic (non-blocking) water-based sun cream for your face. Try Sun Sense tinted sunblock, which is highly recommended by dermatologists, or something from Clinique's non-comedogenic range. Wash your skin thoroughly before you put on sun cream and remember to cleanse it off at night. Don't put on thick layers; instead, reapply regularly. Smothering yourself in sun cream traps a layer of heat under the skin making you more likely to sweat, and more prone to spots. Ideally, have a shower before you head home from the beach to wash off the cream, but don't sacrifice your sunblock for the sake of holiday spots or you could be risking skin cancer.
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