Summer Skin Care For Your Daily Acne Routine

A change in the weather can also require a change in the way you treat your complexion. "Pores can dilate from Summer heat," dermatologist Dr. Ava Shamban explains. "The larger diameter, paired with increased sweating, can provide a scenario for increased deposits of dead skin cells, dirt, and sebum — which can lead to breakouts in acne-prone skin." Luckily, it's easy to remix your routine with a few simple switch-ups. So keep cool (and blemish-free) with these must-have acne products for Summer.

Scrub-a-dub: In addition to your year-round glycolic or salicylic acid cleanser, use an exfoliant in your regimen once or twice a week. You can also mix up a DIY mask using clay, rice starch, or strawberry. Just be sure to keep exfoliating to a minimum in the midst of a breakout.

Tone up: Choose a toner with alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) to remove any dead skin cells that can clog your pores. Dr. Shamban recommends rose water, which cuts through oil with its natural astringent and antiseptic properties. Bonus? Toners help to quell shine.

Acid reign: "Sebum can build up and harden under the skin's surface, creating a plug that makes it impossible for newly produced sebum to be released," Dr. Shamban says. "This can lead to whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples." To prevent this, bring in acne-superstar glycolic acid, which will keep pores open and dissolve sebum. Apply a serum daily with at least 10 percent of this acid to prevent pimples from popping up.

Water lover: Switch out your heavy-duty moisturizer for a lighter, water-based formula; look for one with antioxidants to get the full benefit of their anti-inflammatory properties. And don't forget to add sunscreen to your daily regimen, as AHAs, antibiotics, and retinols can cause discoloration when exposed to the sun.