Are your clothes making you break out?
A dermatologist explains the science to help you deal with this summer wardrobe dilemma
i t hurts, but it’s true: “Acne mechanica” – or irritation and blemishes caused by the friction of your favourite outfit against your skin – can happen to anyone, says Dr Michelle Henry, a dermatologist at Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York. And yes, that’s regardless of skin type (though if yours is on the oily side, you might be at higher risk). But it’s all going to be OK. Here’s everything you need to know…
IM-PORE-TANT INFORMATION
Each one of the pores all over your body releases sebum, an oily substance that keeps you nice and moisturised. But when that sebum gets trapped – along with any dirt and sweat hanging around – by a layer of clothing, it can cause your pores to freak out. Ever get a cluster of breakouts that seems to outline exactly where your waistband was? Sebum is the culprit.
YOUR BACK AND CHEST ARE USUALLY FIRST TO BREAK OUT
“We have a higher concentration of oil glands there relative to other areas,” says Dr Henry. This type of breakout has been known to hit the legs and bum hard too. (Quick pause for a “you’re not alone” note: a whopping 98% of our readers have had to deal wih the delight that is bum acne in the past. Fun!)
LOOSE, BREEZY SILHOUETTES ARE YOUR FRIEND
Tight-fitting clothes that rub against your skin are a large contributing factor, so try laying off the leggings for a bit (we know, sorry). Instead, opt for roomier pieces like wide-leg trousers and boxy tops to cut down on agitation and give your skin a break.
MATERIALS MATTER TOO
Clothes with synthetic fabrics like polyester, acrylic and nylon are more likely to cause spots because they tend to really trap in all that oil and grime (lovely). This is true even of moisturewicking materials that draw sweat away from the skin – their tightness still makes it harder for your pores to breathe. Better, more breathable alternatives include cotton, Iinen and silk.
GENTLE EXFOLIATION IS THE KEY
Can’t stop wearing your trusty yoga pants? We get it. Just make sure you’re washing and exfoliating your skin (Dr Henry recommends an exfoliating body sponge or a benzoyl peroxide wash) to remove any excess oil and debris – especially right after you exercise, so you’re not sitting there in your own sweat for hours. Tempting, we know. But resist, and you’ll soon be reaping the bump-free rewards.
“Opt for roomier tops and trousers”