How to Get Rid of Summer Acne & Breakouts

There’s nothing like the feel of warm sunshine and beachy breezes—until your face decides to erupt like a volcano. Summer might be the season of glow, but for many of us, it also brings the not-so-glamorous problem of acne and breakouts. Whether you're sweating buckets at the gym or just lounging in the heat, acne seems to make an uninvited appearance. The combination of excess oil, clogged pores, sweat, and bacteria creates a breeding ground for pimples. But don’t worry—clearing up your summer skin doesn't have to be rocket science. Let’s break down exactly how to get rid of summer acne and keep those pesky breakouts at bay.

Understanding Summer Acne

Summer acne is a beast of its own. It doesn’t act like the breakouts you get during winter or from hormonal fluctuations. In fact, this particular kind of acne is triggered by a unique mix of environmental factors and lifestyle habits that peak during the warmer months. The high humidity, scorching temperatures, and longer days cause our bodies to sweat more. And with sweat comes clogged pores, especially if you’re wearing makeup or sunscreen that isn’t non-comedogenic. The bacteria that love warm, moist environments thrive under these conditions, causing more frequent breakouts than usual. Plus, people tend to touch their faces more often in hot weather, whether to wipe away sweat or adjust sunglasses—another culprit for transferring bacteria onto your skin.

What makes it worse is that summer acne isn’t limited to your face. Many people experience body acne on their back, chest, and even shoulders due to tight clothing, friction, and trapped sweat. Summer skincare routines also tend to fall by the wayside as people travel more, spend time outdoors, and generally live a more active lifestyle. All of these elements combine to create the perfect storm for breakouts.

Understanding these specific triggers is the first step in developing a foolproof strategy for clearer, more radiant skin during the summer months. It’s not just about treating the acne you already have—it’s about preventing future breakouts before they happen.

What Causes Acne in Summer?

You might be wondering why your skin seems to betray you the moment temperatures rise. The truth is, summer triggers a cascade of skin changes that are often out of our control—but once you understand what’s really causing your acne, you can start managing it effectively. First and foremost, heat causes your body to produce more sweat. And sweat, when mixed with the natural oils (sebum) your skin already produces, can easily clog pores if not washed away properly. It’s even worse if you’re wearing heavy, oil-based sunscreens or makeup, which act like a lid on your pores and trap all that gunk inside.

Another major culprit? Increased oil production. Warmer weather signals your sebaceous glands to go into overdrive, pumping out more oil than usual to help protect your skin. But when there’s too much oil on your skin’s surface, it mixes with dead skin cells and sweat, forming a plug that blocks your pores. This leads to whiteheads, blackheads, and inflammatory pimples.

Then there's bacteria—specifically, Propionibacterium acnes (now called Cutibacterium acnes). This bacteria lives on your skin naturally, but thrives in the oily, sweaty conditions of summer. Once your pores get clogged, this bacteria feeds on the trapped oil and multiplies, causing redness, swelling, and infection.

Finally, lifestyle factors can’t be ignored. Think about how often you’re swimming in chlorinated pools, lying in sand, or wiping your face with dirty towels. All of these introduce irritants and bacteria to your skin, setting off breakouts. In short, summer acne is a multifactorial issue that needs a 360-degree approach.

Why Summer Breakouts Are Different from Winter Ones

If you’ve noticed that your skin behaves totally differently in July than it does in January, you’re not imagining things. Breakouts in summer and winter are triggered by opposite factors, and therefore require different strategies. In winter, dry air and low humidity strip your skin of moisture, often leading to dry, flaky skin that can still clog pores due to buildup. Acne in winter is more likely to be caused by a lack of hydration, overuse of heavy creams, and less frequent washing of pillowcases and scarves.

On the other hand, summer breakouts are mainly fueled by excess moisture, heat, and oil. Your skin might appear greasy rather than dry, and you’re more prone to getting clogged pores due to a buildup of sunscreen, sweat, and pollution. The texture of your skin may also change with the seasons. While winter pimples can be deeper and cystic due to trapped dead skin, summer pimples are often surface-level but more widespread due to the increased number of clogged pores.

Clothing choices also play a role. In winter, your skin is mostly covered, which reduces exposure to environmental irritants. But in summer, more skin is exposed, leading to more opportunities for breakouts—not just on your face but on your chest, back, and shoulders. Plus, summer activities like hiking, beach outings, and sports can lead to more sweat, friction, and bacterial exposure.

In essence, summer acne is more aggressive and widespread, requiring a dedicated, heat-focused skincare routine. Winter acne, though just as frustrating, usually stems from lack of moisture and slower skin turnover. Knowing this seasonal difference allows you to tweak your skincare habits and product choices accordingly.

The Science Behind Sweat and Clogged Pores

Let’s dive into the actual science for a minute—because understanding what’s happening under the surface can help you take smarter steps. Your skin is lined with pores, and each of these contains a hair follicle and an oil gland. These oil glands (sebaceous glands) are more active in the summer due to hormonal activity triggered by heat. When your body gets hot, your sweat glands release moisture to cool you down. That sweat, when it stays on your skin, mixes with oil, bacteria, and environmental pollutants.

Here’s the catch—sweat on its own doesn’t cause acne. It’s the combination of sweat and sebum that becomes problematic. As this mixture collects on your skin, especially if you don’t cleanse immediately, it creates the perfect environment for clogged pores. Clogged pores become inflamed once bacteria get in and start feeding on the trapped oil. This results in redness, swelling, and pus—aka, your not-so-lovely summer pimple.

Interestingly, people who are prone to oily skin are more affected by this chain reaction. The more sebum your skin produces, the more likely it is that sweat will turn into a sticky, pore-clogging mess. Additionally, tight clothing, headbands, and helmets can trap sweat and oil against your skin, worsening the situation.

To counteract this, it’s essential to understand how to manage sweat properly. Washing your face and body with a gentle cleanser after sweating, changing into dry clothes, and patting your skin instead of rubbing it can significantly reduce your chances of developing acne. It’s not about eliminating sweat—it’s about managing what happens after you sweat.

How Sweat Affects Your Skin Barrier

Your skin barrier is like your body’s personal bouncer—it keeps the bad stuff out and the good stuff in. But when you sweat a lot, that barrier can become compromised. Sweat is slightly acidic, and when it sits on your skin for too long, it can irritate and weaken the protective layer of your epidermis. This makes it easier for bacteria and dirt to penetrate the skin and cause inflammation.

Even worse, excessive sweating strips your skin of its natural moisturizing factors. So while you might think your face is oily, your skin might actually be dehydrated underneath. This triggers your oil glands to produce even more sebum to compensate, and the cycle continues.

Sweat also contains salt and urea, which, when left on the skin, can be abrasive and drying. If you frequently wipe your face with your hands or a towel while sweating, you may unknowingly cause micro-tears in your skin’s barrier, allowing more bacteria to enter and cause breakouts.

That’s why proper post-sweat care is so important. Use a mild, pH-balanced cleanser that doesn’t strip your skin, and apply a lightweight moisturizer to maintain hydration. Avoid harsh scrubs or alcohol-based toners right after sweating, as they can further damage the barrier. Protecting your skin barrier means fewer breakouts, better healing, and a healthier glow—even when summer is in full swing.

Best Skincare Routine to Prevent Summer Acne

Creating a summer-specific skincare routine is one of the smartest ways to prevent breakouts before they start. You can’t control the weather, but you can absolutely control what you put on your skin. The key here is to simplify your skincare routine with lightweight, breathable, and acne-fighting products. Start your day with a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser that won’t strip your skin’s natural oils. Over-cleansing can backfire, especially during summer, leading to increased oil production and sensitivity.

After cleansing, use a toner with ingredients like witch hazel or niacinamide to balance oil production without drying your skin. Next, apply a lightweight serum with salicylic acid or tea tree oil to fight acne-causing bacteria. These ingredients penetrate deep into your pores, removing excess oil and dead skin cells. Follow it up with a water-based, non-comedogenic moisturizer. Many people make the mistake of skipping moisturizer in summer, thinking it’ll make them oilier, but this actually prompts your skin to produce more oil.

Don’t forget sunscreen—this is non-negotiable. Use a gel or fluid sunscreen labeled “non-comedogenic” or “oil-free.” Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide are especially good, as they offer sun protection while also soothing inflamed acne. Reapply every two hours, especially if you’re sweating or swimming.

At night, remove all traces of sunscreen, sweat, and makeup using a gentle micellar water or oil cleanser followed by your regular cleanser. Double cleansing ensures that your pores are truly clean and prevents buildup. You can also incorporate a clay mask once or twice a week to absorb excess oil and clear out pores. Exfoliate only 1–2 times a week with a chemical exfoliant like AHA or BHA—physical scrubs can irritate acne-prone skin, especially in the heat.

By staying consistent and adjusting your products for the season, you can build a skin barrier that resists summer breakouts rather than welcomes them.

Choosing the Right Products for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin

When you have oily, acne-prone skin, choosing the right skincare products can make or break your summer glow. Many people fall into the trap of grabbing anything that says “oil-free” or “for acne,” without realizing that the ingredients inside matter just as much—if not more—than the label on the outside.

First things first, you want to look for products labeled “non-comedogenic.” This term means the product is formulated not to clog pores, which is crucial during summer when your skin is already more prone to congestion. Ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, niacinamide, and tea tree oil are great for acne-prone skin. Salicylic acid, in particular, is a beta-hydroxy acid that dissolves the oil inside your pores, making it ideal for blackheads and whiteheads. Niacinamide, on the other hand, controls oil production, reduces inflammation, and strengthens your skin barrier—all essential in the summer heat.

Avoid products with alcohol, synthetic fragrances, and heavy oils like coconut oil or mineral oil, as they can irritate the skin or clog pores. Instead, opt for lightweight, gel-based formulas. Cleansers should be sulfate-free and hydrating, while moisturizers should contain humectants like hyaluronic acid or glycerin that hydrate without adding grease.

When it comes to sunscreen, mineral-based formulas with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are generally better for acne-prone skin. These ingredients sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays, rather than being absorbed, which means less irritation. They also tend to have a mattifying effect, which can help control summer shine.

Even your makeup should be chosen carefully. Look for foundation and powders that are oil-free and labeled “acne-safe.” Setting sprays with soothing ingredients like aloe or green tea can help calm inflammation and keep your look fresh throughout the day.

By curating your product lineup with care and intention, you’re giving your skin the best possible chance to thrive—even in the sweatiest, stickiest summer conditions.

The Importance of Staying Hydrated

We all know hydration is essential, but did you know that drinking enough water can directly impact your skin’s health—especially when it comes to preventing summer acne? When you’re dehydrated, your body tries to compensate by producing more oil to keep your skin lubricated. And as we already know, more oil equals more chances for clogged pores and acne.

Drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day can help flush out toxins from your body, regulate your internal temperature, and maintain the elasticity and hydration of your skin. It also aids in the detoxification process, which is critical during summer when you’re sweating more and losing more fluids than usual. When your body is well-hydrated, your skin cells function better, heal faster, and maintain a healthy barrier—making it more resilient against acne-causing bacteria.

Beyond just plain water, eating hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber, celery, and oranges can provide your skin with additional nutrients and antioxidants that fight inflammation. Herbal teas and coconut water are also great options to replenish electrolytes lost through sweat.

Topical hydration is equally important. Just because your skin feels oily doesn’t mean it isn’t thirsty. Using a lightweight, water-based moisturizer helps maintain the moisture balance and prevents your skin from going into oil overdrive. Humectants like hyaluronic acid attract water to the skin and keep it plump without clogging pores.

If you’re spending time outdoors or working out, make it a point to rehydrate frequently. Carry a reusable water bottle with you and make sipping water a habit rather than an afterthought. Hydrated skin is healthy skin, and healthy skin is far less likely to break out—even during the most intense summer heat waves.

Foods That Can Help Reduce Summer Breakouts

You might be using all the right skincare products, but if your diet is working against you, your skin won’t stand a chance. What you eat plays a huge role in how your skin behaves, especially during summer when your body is under more environmental stress. Certain foods can trigger inflammation and increase oil production, while others can soothe your skin from the inside out.

Start by cutting back on high-glycemic foods—these include white bread, sugary snacks, and processed foods that spike your blood sugar and insulin levels. High insulin levels can increase sebum production and make acne worse. Dairy is another potential trigger for some people. It can disrupt hormonal balance and promote breakouts, particularly around the jawline and chin.

Instead, focus on anti-inflammatory foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, chia seeds, and walnuts. These help reduce inflammation and regulate oil production. Leafy greens, berries, and colorful vegetables are packed with antioxidants, which protect your skin from environmental damage and help repair tissue.

Zinc is another powerhouse mineral for acne-prone skin. It helps reduce oil production and fights acne-causing bacteria. You can find zinc in foods like pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, and whole grains. Probiotics also support gut health, which is closely linked to skin clarity. Try incorporating yogurt with live cultures, kefir, or fermented foods like kimchi and sauerkraut into your meals.

Hydration-rich fruits like watermelon and cucumbers not only satisfy summer cravings but also provide vitamins and antioxidants while keeping your skin hydrated. Green tea is another excellent option—it’s anti-inflammatory, antioxidant-rich, and can help reduce hormonal acne when consumed regularly.

Eating for your skin isn’t about being perfect—it’s about making smarter choices that support your skincare routine from the inside out. In the long run, your complexion will thank you.

Avoiding Common Summer Habits That Worsen Acne

Sometimes, it’s not just what you’re doing to treat your acne—it’s what you’re doing every day without realizing that might be making things worse. Summer is full of habits that can quietly sabotage your skin. Take, for example, constantly wiping sweat off your face with your hands or shirt. Your hands carry bacteria, and every time you touch your face, you’re potentially transferring it directly into your pores.

Wearing tight, sweaty clothing during workouts or long outdoor events can trap heat and bacteria against your skin, leading to body acne. The same goes for sports bras, helmets, and backpacks that rub against your skin for hours on end. Opt for breathable, loose-fitting fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking materials designed for summer wear.

Sleeping on dirty pillowcases or using towels multiple times without washing can also contribute to acne. Your pillowcase collects sweat, oil, and bacteria from your face and hair every night. Make it a habit to wash them at least twice a week during hot months.

Then there’s sunscreen—not using it is a major mistake, but so is using the wrong kind. Greasy, pore-clogging sunscreens can do more harm than good. Always go for non-comedogenic and preferably mineral-based options.

Finally, don’t over-wash or over-exfoliate. It’s tempting to scrub your skin multiple times a day during summer to “feel clean,” but overdoing it strips your skin’s natural barrier, causing it to produce even more oil. Stick to cleansing twice a day and use exfoliants no more than two or three times per week.

By simply breaking a few of these bad habits and replacing them with skin-friendly alternatives, you’ll start to notice a major difference in how your skin responds during the summer season.

How to Treat Existing Summer Acne Effectively

When a breakout strikes in the middle of summer, it can feel like a disaster—but with the right treatment strategy, you can reduce inflammation quickly and prevent further damage. The first and most important rule? Don’t pick or pop! It’s tempting, especially with surface-level whiteheads, but squeezing pimples pushes bacteria deeper into your pores and increases the risk of scarring and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially in the heat when your skin is already sensitive.

Start by applying a targeted treatment that contains active acne-fighting ingredients. Salicylic acid is excellent for unclogging pores and reducing inflammation. Benzoyl peroxide, another go-to ingredient, kills acne-causing bacteria and works best on inflamed pimples. Apply these treatments directly to the affected area after cleansing and allow them to work overnight. For more natural options, tea tree oil has antibacterial properties and can be used as a spot treatment, while aloe vera soothes irritation and speeds up healing.

Ice is a surprisingly effective tool to reduce swelling and redness in large, painful pimples. Wrap an ice cube in a clean cloth and apply it to the affected area for 5–10 minutes. This helps reduce inflammation and shrinks the size of the pimple temporarily.

If your breakouts are more widespread, consider incorporating a sulfur-based mask into your routine once or twice a week. Sulfur helps dry out the surface of your skin to absorb excess oil and unclog pores without the irritation often caused by stronger actives.

For body acne, use a gentle exfoliating body wash with salicylic acid and follow up with a non-comedogenic moisturizer. Avoid heavy body lotions or oils that may clog pores further.

In cases of persistent or cystic acne, it may be time to consult a dermatologist. Prescription treatments like topical retinoids or oral medications can be highly effective and offer longer-term solutions.

Patience is key—give treatments time to work, and resist the urge to switch products too quickly. Consistency and gentle care are your skin’s best allies in the battle against summer breakouts.

Sweat-Proof Makeup Tips for Acne-Prone Skin

Wearing makeup during summer when your skin is prone to sweating and breakouts can feel like a risky move—but it doesn’t have to be. With the right products and techniques, you can create a sweat-proof look that won’t clog your pores or aggravate your acne.

Start with a clean, well-moisturized face. Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to ensure your skin is hydrated without feeling greasy. Follow up with a primer designed for oily or acne-prone skin. Mattifying primers help to control shine, minimize the appearance of pores, and create a smooth base for your foundation.

When it comes to foundation, less is more. Choose a breathable, oil-free foundation or a tinted moisturizer that’s labeled non-comedogenic. Avoid heavy cream or stick foundations, as these are more likely to clog pores in humid weather. For additional coverage, use a lightweight concealer only where needed—on blemishes or redness—and blend well.

Setting your makeup is crucial in hot weather. Use a translucent, oil-absorbing powder to lock everything in place without caking. Mineral powders are a great choice because they offer buildable coverage and are generally less irritating for acne-prone skin.

Finish with a setting spray designed to control oil and prolong wear. Some setting sprays even contain ingredients like green tea or salicylic acid that help calm inflammation throughout the day.

Don’t forget to clean your makeup brushes and sponges regularly—ideally once a week. Dirty tools are a breeding ground for bacteria and can transfer it directly onto your face, worsening breakouts.

Finally, always remove your makeup thoroughly before bed, even if you’re exhausted. Use micellar water or a gentle oil-based cleanser to break down makeup, followed by your regular cleanser to ensure your pores are clean.

By making smart choices and using makeup that works with your skin—not against it—you can enjoy flawless, summer-ready looks without the acne drama.

The Role of Sleep and Stress in Summer Breakouts

You might be doing everything right with your skincare, but if you’re not getting enough sleep or you’re constantly stressed, your summer skin can still go haywire. Sleep and stress play a huge role in how your body functions—and your skin is no exception.

Let’s talk sleep first. During deep sleep, your body goes into repair mode. This is when cell turnover increases, inflammation reduces, and cortisol levels drop. Cortisol, also known as the stress hormone, is directly linked to oil production. When you’re sleep-deprived, your cortisol levels remain elevated, triggering excess sebum production and inflammation, both of which contribute to acne.

Now add stress to the mix—summer schedules are often jam-packed with social events, travel, and late nights, which can disrupt your routine and increase anxiety. When you’re stressed, your adrenal glands release more cortisol, again signaling your sebaceous glands to go into overdrive. Chronic stress can also impair your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off acne-causing bacteria.

The solution? Prioritize rest and relaxation. Aim for at least 7–8 hours of quality sleep each night, and try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule—even on weekends. Create a calming bedtime routine that may include journaling, reading, or a gentle skincare ritual to signal your body it’s time to wind down.

Incorporate stress-reducing practices like yoga, meditation, or regular exercise, which not only improve your mental health but also regulate hormones and boost circulation to your skin. Even short breaks throughout the day can make a big difference.

Don’t underestimate the power of mental wellness when it comes to skin health. A calm, well-rested body is better equipped to heal acne and resist new breakouts—giving you a healthier, more radiant complexion all summer long.

When to See a Dermatologist for Summer Acne

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, summer acne doesn’t go away—or worse, it gets more aggressive. That’s when it’s time to call in a pro. A dermatologist can help you determine the root cause of your acne and create a personalized treatment plan that actually works.

So how do you know it’s time to book an appointment? If your breakouts are painful, cystic, or leave behind scars, you should see a dermatologist. These types of acne often require prescription medications like retinoids, antibiotics, or even hormonal treatments such as spironolactone or birth control pills. Over-the-counter products just won’t cut it in these cases.

You should also consult a dermatologist if you’ve been using acne treatments consistently for 8–12 weeks with little or no improvement. Skin conditions like rosacea, folliculitis, or fungal acne can look like regular pimples but need completely different treatments.

Another sign to seek professional help is if your acne is affecting your self-esteem or mental health. No one should feel embarrassed or anxious about their skin, and a dermatologist can help you find solutions that restore both your skin and confidence.

Modern dermatology offers a range of in-office treatments like chemical peels, laser therapy, and light therapy, which can accelerate healing and prevent future breakouts. These treatments are especially helpful during summer when skin can be more reactive due to heat and humidity.

Remember, clear skin is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Sometimes, having an expert in your corner is the fastest way to reclaim your complexion and feel good in your skin again.

Creating a Summer Skincare Plan That Works for You

Now that you know what causes summer acne and how to fight it, it’s time to put it all together into a customized plan. A good summer skincare plan isn’t just about slathering on products—it’s about developing habits and routines that fit your lifestyle and your skin’s unique needs.

Start with a morning routine that includes gentle cleansing, toning, acne treatment (if needed), a lightweight moisturizer, and broad-spectrum sunscreen. At night, double cleanse to remove sweat, makeup, and sunscreen, then apply treatment products like retinoids, spot treatments, or soothing serums followed by a non-comedogenic moisturizer.

Incorporate weekly habits like using a clay or sulfur mask, exfoliating with chemical exfoliants, and rotating pillowcases and towels frequently. Adjust your routine if you're traveling, spending more time outdoors, or working out more often.

Pay attention to your skin’s signals—if something feels too harsh or drying, scale back. Skin is dynamic, and what works one week might need a tweak the next, especially with temperature and humidity changes.

Hydrate well, eat clean, and manage stress as part of your “internal skincare routine.” And remember, consistency is everything. Breakouts won’t disappear overnight, but with a solid, personalized summer plan, your skin can stay clear, fresh, and glowing—even when the temperature is anything but chill.

Conclusion

Summer acne might seem like an unavoidable part of the season, but with the right knowledge and habits, you can totally outsmart it. From the blazing sun to the relentless sweat, summer throws a lot at your skin—but you’re not powerless. It all begins with understanding what causes breakouts in warm weather—like excess oil, sweat, clogged pores, and environmental exposure. Once you know what you're up against, it's all about creating a game plan that tackles each element head-on.

Think beyond products and look at the full picture—how you eat, how much water you drink, your stress levels, how often you touch your face, and even your sleep schedule all affect your skin. It’s not just about treating what’s already on your face, but about preventing future breakouts by caring for your skin in a smart, proactive way. Stick to non-comedogenic products, choose breathable fabrics, wash off sweat quickly, and stay hydrated both inside and out. Don’t forget the importance of mental health either—a good night’s sleep and a stress-free mind can go a long way in keeping your skin clear.

Remember, no skincare routine works overnight. The key to beating summer acne is consistency, patience, and listening to what your skin is trying to tell you. And if it still feels like a losing battle, there’s no shame in seeking professional help from a dermatologist. Clear, glowing skin is possible—even in the peak of summer—all it takes is a little effort and the right strategy.

FAQs

1. Can sunscreen cause acne during summer?

Yes, some sunscreens can cause breakouts if they’re greasy, oil-based, or not labeled as non-comedogenic. Always look for sunscreens specifically designed for acne-prone or oily skin—preferably gel-based or mineral formulas with zinc oxide.

2. How often should I wash my face in the summer?

Twice a day is ideal—once in the morning and once before bed. However, if you sweat heavily after a workout or being outdoors, gently cleanse again to remove sweat and prevent clogged pores. Avoid over-washing, which can dry out your skin and trigger more oil production.

3. Is it okay to exfoliate more often in summer?

Exfoliation helps remove dead skin and prevent clogged pores, but overdoing it can irritate your skin. Limit exfoliation to 2–3 times a week using chemical exfoliants like AHAs or BHAs. Avoid harsh scrubs, especially if your skin is inflamed.

4. Can diet really affect summer acne?

Absolutely. Foods high in sugar, dairy, or refined carbs can trigger breakouts by increasing insulin and oil production. On the flip side, antioxidant-rich foods like leafy greens, berries, and omega-3 fats help reduce inflammation and support clear skin.

5. What should I do if my acne gets worse even with a good routine?

If your acne doesn’t improve after 8–12 weeks of consistent care, or if it worsens, it’s time to see a dermatologist. Persistent or severe breakouts may require prescription treatments or specialized procedures to get them under control.