This summer is exceptionally warmer than last year and your skin is feeling the heat! It is important to take care of your skin to protect it from this intense heat.
What are the skin problems you can face in summers?
-
Sun burn: Excessive unprotected sun exposure can cause peeling and burning of the skin. This can result in discomfort, irritation and pigmented patches on the skin. Protect your skin from sunburn by the regular use of a broad spectrum sunscreen. It is important to remember to re-apply the sunscreen every 2 to 3 hours.
-
Suntan: Tanning is one of the effects that most Indians don’t like while Caucasian skins like to tan. Prevention of tanning is by the regular and repeated use of sun block and by the rehydration of the skin.
-
Prickly heat: This uncomfortable condition is caused by excessive sweating resulting in a bacterial infection causing itching, rashes and tiny boils in the affected area. Treatment can be done with the use of a topical antibiotic cream and an oral anti allergy tablet, if the itching is severe. Prevention is by keeping the area clean and dry, showering frequently and using medicated dusting powders. Wearing looser fitting cotton and other natural fabric clothing also helps.
-
Fungal infections: Itchy rashes in the groin area, under arms, under the breasts and in between the toes (Athletes foot) are common in summers. Treatment requires use of a topical antifungal cream. Prevention is to keep the areas clean and dry with proper hygiene and use of prophylactic antifungal dusting powders.
-
Photo dermatitis or Sun allergy: This can occur in approximately 10% of the population and will manifest as itchy skin rashes over sun exposed areas. This condition requires a dermatological evaluation for treatment and also to rule out any underlying medical condition.
