8 Common Summertime Skin Problems and How To Avoid Them
The sun is shining bright, making it an excellent time to stay outside. You’ll wear fewer clothes and spend more time in the sun, but did you know that this can also lead to skin problems? Pollutants, sweat, and sun exposure can all lead to skin issues. Here are eight typical summertime skin problems and ways to avoid them:
8 Common Summertime Skin Problems and How To Avoid Them (Image Credit Pexels)
SunBurns
Sunburn is the skin irritation, inflammation, and reddening that occurs after exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. To avoid sunburn, wear sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher, and reapply it every two hours.
You can also protect your skin by wearing a hat, sunglasses, and clothing covering your arms and any other exposed skin. The good news is that you don’t have to risk a sunburn; use a tanning lotion from Australian Gold or equivalent. You’ll achieve a beautiful tan while protecting your skin.
Prickly Heat
Prickly heat, also known as heat rash, is a skin irritation occurring when sweat accumulates on the skin. It happens when a person is overdressed or in a hot, humid environment. Sweat moves to the skin’s surface and mixes with the oils and sebaceous glands, causing the pores to block.
The blockage leads to prickly heat rash, with symptoms such as small, red bumps on the skin. The best way to avoid prickly heat is to stay cool and dry. Wear light, breathable clothing and avoid hot, humid environments. Apply skin products that contain aloe vera to keep the skin cool and hydrated.
Bug Bites
Insects are more active in summertime leading to more bug bites. Bug bites are itchy and get infected if not treated properly. To avoid bug bites, use insect repellent, wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt. Make sure to reapply the insect repellent every few hours, especially when sweating. If you get a bug bite, apply ice to the area to reduce swelling and itchiness. Other precautions are:
- Avoid perfumes and scented lotions as they attract bugs
- Avoid areas where there is standing water, as this is where insects breed
- Remove standing water from your yard and keep the house clean
Acne Breakouts
Acne is a common skin problem that worsens as the summer heat increases. Sun exposure causes the skin to produce more oil, leading to acne breakouts. To avoid breakouts, wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and avoid excessive sun exposure.
Acne can also result from excessive sweating, dirt accumulation, and oily skin products. To treat acne, use a gentle cleanser and a benzoyl peroxide cream. Do not scrub the skin as this irritates it.
Melasma
Melasma is a skin condition caused by exposure to the sun’s UV rays. Brown patches on the skin characterize it. To avoid melasma, wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and avoid excessive sun exposure. Melasma is treated with topical creams that contain hydroquinone and tretinoin.
Dehydration
Dehydration is common in the summertime and results from excessive sweating. Symptoms include thirst, dry mouth, fatigue, and lightheadedness. Dehydrated skin tends to flake, itch, wrinkle, and look dull. To avoid dehydration, drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Sports drinks can also replace the electrolytes lost through sweating.
Sun Allergies
Sun allergies and photoallergic dermatitis are skin conditions caused by exposure to UV rays. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and blisters. Other than sun allergies, some people get sunscreen allergies. If you experience any symptoms of a sunscreen allergy, stop using the product and consult your doctor.
Swimmers Ear and Swimmers Itch
Swimmers ear is a condition caused by exposure to water. Symptoms are pain, itchiness, and discharge from the ear, while one also gets a rash when dealing with swimmers’ itch. The best way to avoid swimmer’s ear and swimmer’s itch is to keep the ears and skin clean and dry. Use a swim cap to keep water out of your ears, and apply waterproof sunscreen to your skin.
Maintain Healthy Skin This Summer
Avoiding these common problems makes your summer a lot more enjoyable. Simple precautions and treatments make your summertime skin healthy and happy. You’ll end up with a beautiful glow that will last all season long.
