Can The Sun Actually Help Clear Up Acne?

You may have heard people say that sun exposure could help acne disappear. Maybe you even have friends who swear by it. 

We turned to family physician and associate professor at Rowan University in New Jersey Dr. Jen Caudle to get the truth.

The sun may help disguise acne in some cases, the doctor says, but it doesn't help to clear it up. 

In fact, "many acne medications can make skin particularly sensitive to the sun," Dr. Jen tells us. 

"Tanning also causes damage to skin that will eventually lead to wrinkles," she continues, "and increase your risk of skin cancer."

"If you struggle with [acne]," the doc says, "there are some really great over-the-counter products." She says you can find salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide at the drugstore — but always check in with your doctor before deciding what to use.

And don't forgo that sunscreen, everyone!