Ava Shamban

Ever notice how acne seems to clear up after a day of sunbathing? Although your pimples may have disappeared, you're actually putting your skin at greater risk from sun damage if you skip protection. But sometimes sunscreen causes an even worse breakout in the end. Sigh.

"While many acne patients seek the sun hoping to 'dry out' their skin, what they normally end up with is sunburned acne," explains Dr. Ava Shamban, board certified dermatologist and author of Heal Your Skin. Find out how to choose the right sunscreen, all while keeping your skin clear, when you read more.

So you woke up this morning with a pimple that's less than discreet. Well, put your worries aside. This dermatologist-approved routine will actually treat that spot and cover it, too. Get the step-by-step guide to morning blemish obliteration when you continue reading.

Travel can do serious damage to your skin's equilibrium, with airplanes, sun exposure, and stress all contributing to a vacation breakout. But you can keep blemishes at bay during all your adventures. Travel light with these bare essentials for acne-prone skin.

• Ms. Clean: Dermatologist Dr. Ava Shamban recommends bringing along a face wash with glycolic and/or salicylic acid. Look for something with anti-inflammatory benefits, as well, like redness-reducing Peter Thomas Roth Gentle Complexion Correction Pads ($36). Not only are these compact wipes easy to get through TSA, but they're perfect for freshening up on a road trip when water is scarce.
• Pimple destroyer: Select a spot treatment cream with at least two and a half percent benzoyl peroxide. "Benzoyl peroxide works as a preventative measure because it acts as a peeling agent, increasing skin turnover, and clearing pores of dead skin cells," Dr. Shamban explains.
• Moisture mix: Look for anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties in your moisturizer. Some of Dr. Shamban's favorite ingredients include black cohosh extract, iris extract, zinc, and green tea. Try Supergoop! Antioxidant-Infused Sunscreen SPF 50 ($37), which is under 3 oz., formulated with green tea, and includes another travel must have: sunscreen.

Still can't avoid a pimple while you're away? Keep aspirin in your back pocket to obliterate a spot before you can say "home sweet home."

Source: Flickr user Modestas J

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.

Sometimes acne isn't restricted to your teenage years. If you're dealing with adult acne, there may be simple things you can change to banish breakouts. Dr. Ava Shamban, board-certified dermatologist and author of Heal Your Skin, pinpoints the unhealthy skin habits to break. Just read more.