While acne is commonly associated with hormones, diet, or genetics, there’s another factor that can cause skin woes and that’s sun exposure.
Called ‘solar acne’, a solar or senile comedo (plural comedones) is a small skin coloured papule found on the face in areas that have been exposed to sunlight over a long period of time.
Caused by clogged pores oxidising in the sun, these solar comedones may be open (enlarged blackheads) or closed (whiteheads). They do not usually become inflamed and traditionally occur in people aged 40+.
However, theres is a reason why those under 40 can experience acne flare ups when exposed to the sun, too.
Speaking with Glamour, US dermatologist Dr Stefanie Williams explained: "There is often a rude awakening after the holiday for many acne sufferers, when they experience a flareup.
“The reason for this is that our skin defends itself against the harmful effects of the sun by thickening its outer layer, the stratum corneum. This is one of the skin's protection mechanisms against sun damage. A thicker stratum corneum, however, means more clogged pores and thus more acne breakouts."
For management of solar acne, experts recommend using sun protection that is oil free in order to avoid aggravating the skin.
