5 Min Read
Summer is a time for fun, outdoor activities, and relaxation, but it can also increase the risk of various common skin problems. From sunburn to acne, the intense heat and humidity can wreak havoc on your skin. You might be wondering why your skin is acting up more than usual during this season. It’s completely normal to experience skin problems in summer when the temperatures rise.
In this blog, we'll take a look at skin problems in summer and solutions you can use to keep your skin healthy. We’ll also discuss the best skin problem treatments to help you manage these issues effectively.
Synopsis
Skin Problem in Summer: Causes & Symptoms
As the summer sun intensifies, so do common skin problems, and if you're already dealing with oily skin, acne, or sensitivities, the heat can make things even worse. Sweat, humidity, and increased exposure to UV rays create the perfect storm for breakouts, rashes, and irritation. You might notice flare-ups in existing conditions or develop new ones like sunburn, prickly heat, or even yeast infections in skin folds. The truth is, your skin works overtime in the summer, and without the right care, it can quickly become overwhelmed. Let’s explore how to prevent and manage the six most common summer skin concerns.
| Skin Problem in Summer | Causes | Symptoms |
| Sunburn | Overexposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays. |
|
| Acne | Clogged pores due to sweat, oil, dirt, and heat. |
|
| Folliculitis |
Infection of hair follicles due to bacteria, sweat, or friction. Often occurs on the neck, chest, and thighs. |
|
| Prickly Heat (Heat Rash) |
Blocked sweat ducts trapping sweat under the skin. Often found on the neck, back, and underarms. |
|
| Contact Dermatitis | Skin reaction to irritants/allergens like plants, insect bites, pool chemicals. |
|
| Yeast Infection |
Overgrowth of yeast in warm, moist body areas. Usually seen in folds like the groin, armpits. |
|
6 Summer Skin Problems: How to Prevent?
From sunburn to rashes, your skin can face a host of summer troubles if you’re not careful. That’s why it’s important to stay aware of proper prevention and management practices to avoid the most common skin problems. Let’s take a look at how to prevent and manage six common skin issues that are prevalent during the summer season.
1. Sunburn
Sunburn is the most common skin problem in summer. It occurs when your skin is exposed to the sun's harmful UV rays for too long. It causes redness, pain, and inflammation.
Prevention:
The best way to prevent sunburn is by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Reapply every two hours, especially after sweating or swimming. Wearing protective clothing like hats, sunglasses, and long sleeves can also shield your skin.
Management:
If you get sunburned, the first step is to cool your skin with a cold, damp cloth or soothing aloe vera gel. Over-the-counter creams containing hydrocortisone can help reduce inflammation. In case of severe sunburn, it’s important to see a doctor for proper skin treatment.
Acne is a common skin problem in summer caused by clogged pores from oil, sweat, and dirt. The heat and humidity can make breakouts worse because of excess oil production. It’s also the case if you don't wash your face regularly.
2. Acne
Acne is a common skin problem in summer caused by clogged pores from oil, sweat, and dirt. The heat and humidity can make breakouts worse because of excess oil production. It’s also the case if you don't wash your face regularly.
Prevention:
To prevent acne, wash your face twice a day with a mild cleanser to remove oil and sweat. Avoid touching your face, and use lightweight skincare products. Drink plenty of water and choose an oil-free sunscreen.
Management:
For acne treatment, your dermatologist would recommend face washes with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. They might also give creams to avoid breakouts.
3. Folliculitis
Folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicles on your skin. It is often caused by bacteria, sweat, or friction. It can appear as small, red bumps or pimples around hair follicles, usually on areas like the neck, chest, or thighs. In summer, sweat, tight clothing, and heat make it more likely to happen.
Prevention:
To prevent folliculitis, wear loose-fitting clothes to reduce friction. Keep your skin clean and dry, especially after sweating. Avoid shaving or waxing over irritated areas and use gentle skincare products.
Management:
For folliculitis treatment, apply warm compresses to the affected areas and keep them clean. If the infection worsens or doesn’t improve, consult a dermatologist who can prescribe antibiotic creams to control the infection.
4. Prickly Heat
Prickly heat is also known as heat rash. It occurs when sweat gets trapped in the sweat ducts and cause irritation. It results in red, itchy bumps often on areas like the neck, back, or underarms.
Prevention:
To prevent prickly heat, wear loose, breathable clothing made of cotton. Avoid being in the sun for long periods, and use a cooling body powder to absorb sweat. Keep your skin dry and cool by staying in shaded areas or air-conditioned spaces.
Management:
For prickly heat treatment, you can apply calamine lotion or a soothing anti-itch cream. Cool baths with mild soap can help calm the skin. If symptoms persist or worsen, see a doctor for advice.
5. Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis occurs when your skin reacts to irritants or allergens, which leads to redness, itching, and sometimes blisters. In summer, several factors can trigger this condition, such as insect bites, swimming pool chemicals, and contact with outdoor plants like poison ivy during camping or other activities.
If symptoms persist or worsen, you can consult a dermatologist in Bhubaneswar for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Prevention:
You can learn the different triggers that can set off the contact dermatitis. Use insect repellants when you are outside and moisturisers to protect your skin. Wear protective clothing at all times.
Management:
For contact dermatitis treatment, a dermatologist might prescribe soothing creams like hydrocortisone. You can also use cool compresses to ease itching. If irritation persists, the dermatologist might prescribe stronger medications.
6. Yeast Infection
A yeast infection occurs when there is an overgrowth of yeast on the skin. It often occurs in warm, moist areas like the groin, armpits, or under the breasts. Summer heat and humidity can create the perfect environment for yeast to thrive.
Prevention:
Keep your skin dry and clean, especially in areas prone to moisture. Wear loose, breathable cotton clothing, and avoid tight-fitting synthetic fabrics. If you go out and sweat a lot, change into dry clothes as soon as possible.
Management:
For yeast infection treatment, you can apply antifungal creams or powders available over the counter. If the infection doesn’t improve, consult a dermatologist for medication.
Conclusion
Summer brings many joys, but it also increases the risk of skin problems in summer. From sunburn to acne, the heat and humidity can trigger various issues. Fortunately, with the right prevention and skin problem treatments, you can keep your skin healthy and comfortable. Book an Appointment Now!
