Acne affects eight of out ten people between the ages of 11 and 30, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, or NIAMS. Acne causes several different kinds of pimples and is influenced by physical and environmental factors, including temperature. Heat can contribute to outbreaks and is also used as a treatment.
Definition
Acne is a skin problem characterized by pimples that usually appear on the face. They can also grow on other areas like the back, chest or neck. NIAMS explains that some pimples, called whiteheads, remain below the skin, while blackheads rise to surface level. Papules are tender pink bumps, and pustules are red with a pus plug at the top. Nodules are deep, painful pimples, and cysts are pus-filled bumps that often leave scars.
Cause
The core cause of acne is the combination of skin oil and dead skin cells, according to NIAMS. They plug pores, trapping propionbacterium acnes, or P. acnes, bacteria. This combination causes swelling, and a pimple grows as the plug breaks down. Many factors influence this condition, including hormones and genetics. Heat does not directly cause acne, but the Mayo Clinic explains that it can contribute to outbreaks. Hot conditions make a person sweat, and perspiration combines with dirt and skin oil, making clogged pores more likely.
Treatment
Doctors are combining heat with pulsed light in a new pimple treatment, according to the Mayo Clinic. The light pulses and heat energy destroy P. acnes bacteria to reduce inflammation. They also shrink the sebaceous glands, which prevents clogged pores by cutting down oil production. Inflammation risk is also reduced because the bacteria are killed. This new therapy can temporarily redden the skin.
NASA reports that heat treatment devices for acne are available for home use. They kill bacteria and reduce or eliminate many blemishes within 24 to 48 hours.
Prevention
Acne-related problems with heat and sweat are easily avoided by showering after vigorous activity. Use mild soap to lather away the perspiration, then rinse the skin thoroughly without scrubbing it. The Mayo Clinic recommends reducing sweat, heat and irritation by avoiding tight hats and clothing, and keeping hair from touching the facial skin. Wash hair so it is not oily and don't hold things that can cause you to sweat, such as phone receivers, against the skin for long periods of time.
Considerations
Sunshine exposes people to heat when they are outdoors in the warm seasons. Sunscreen is commonly used for protection, but it contributes to clogged pores unless it is labeled as a noncomedogenic product, according to the Mayo Clinic. Some acne treatments increase skin sensitivity to the sun. The Mayo Clinic recommends avoiding sun exposure when those products are being used.
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