Each season can influence skin diseases and ailments differently. Summer can often cause flare-ups of psoriases, eczema, heat rash, and other common skin conditions. Here are some helpful tips for dealing with those concerns during the hot summer months.
1. Avoid Hot Water
For certain skin conditions, you may already know to avoid hot showers. In the summer, you’ll want to continue keeping your showers or baths lukewarm, but be mindful of pools, too. A heated pool or hot tub can trigger a flare-up, so take a refreshing dip instead.
2. Rinse Off After Swimming
“Whether it’s in a pool or the ocean, you’ll want to rinse off quickly after swimming,” advises Dr. Kelli Baender. “Chlorine and saltwater can zap moisture, leading to irritating dryness.” Be sure to shower or rinse with fresh water, and apply a lotion friendly to your skin condition in order to replenish moisture afterward.
3. Continue to Moisturize
Increased humidity in the air means moisture evaporates off the skin at a slower rate than in other seasons, so you’re less likely to experience dryness in the summer. But since we tend to spend a lot of time indoors when the weather’s too hot, it’s a good idea to continue your moisturizing routine. A basic summer skin care plan can be easily mapped out with your dermatologist.
4. Prevent Bug Bites
For people with ailments like psoriasis, bug bites are more than just a nuisance. This is due to the Koebner phenomenon, in which small skin injuries like scratches and bug bites can trigger flares. You can prevent bites by applying bug spray, but be sure to avoid a formula with harsh chemicals like DEET, which can also cause irritation.
5. Apply SPF
In addition to bug bites, sunburns can also injure the skin in a way that causes flare-ups. While some types of skin disorders do respond well to light therapy, it’s best to receive this treatment under the supervision of a medical expert, rather than trying to DIY it in the sun. Continue to apply SPF and try to avoid the hottest parts of the day, from 10 am to 4 pm. Not only are these times when you’re most likely to get too much sun exposure (a risk factor for skin cancer), but they could also leave you feeling overheated, which may cause skin irritation.
6. Keep Cool
You’re more likely to experience outbreaks when your skin is hot and sweaty. You don’t have to stay indoors all season, but consider planning your outings for the early mornings or evenings. Wear loose, breathable clothing to stay cool. If you have to be out in the heat, use accessories like neck fans or cooling towels to control your body temperature.
While summer may bring you some relief for certain skin conditions, it’s not without its own set of triggers. That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy all the season has to offer, however. Contact one of our offices to set up a consultation (or call 404-355-5484) for personalized treatment, regardless of which type of skin concern you may have. Our aim is to keep you comfortable through the summer and beyond!
