DR SUPREET SINGH
Summer season can bring its own set of challenges when it comes to dermatology.
Here are some common issues people face during the summer months and tips to address them
SUNBURNS: With increased sun exposure, the risk of sunburn rises. Sunburn not only damages the skin but also increases the risk of skin cancer.
HEAT RASH: Heat rash occurs when sweat ducts become blocked, leading to small red bumps or blisters. It’s common in hot, humid weather.
ACNE FLARE-UPS: Heat and humidity can exacerbate acne by increasing oil production and clogging pores. Acne prevention in summers can be particularly challenging due to increased heat and humidity, which can lead to excess oil production and clogged pores.
Here are some tips to help prevent acne during the summer months:
Cleanse regularly: Wash your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser to remove sweat, oil, and impurities that can clog pores. Avoid harsh cleansers that can strip away natural oils and irritate the skin.
Use a lightweight moisturizer: Opt for oil free or non-comedogenic moisturizers to hydrate your skin without clogging pores. Look for products labeled “oil-free” or “water based.”
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Proper hydration can help regulate oil production and prevent acne breakouts.
Protect your skin from the sun: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Sunscreen not only prevents sunburn but also reduces the risk of acne scarring and hyperpigmentation.
Choose non-comedogenic products: Look for skincare and makeup products labeled “non-comedogenic” to avoid products that can clog pores and exacerbate acne.
Avoid heavy makeup: During hot and humid weather, minimize the use of heavy makeup products that can trap sweat and oil on your skin. Opt for lightweight, oil-free, and non-comedogenic makeup formulas.
Shower after sweating: Sweat can mix with bacteria and oils on your skin, leading to acne breakouts. Shower as soon as possible after sweating to remove sweat and prevent pore-clogging.
Use oil-absorbing products: Keep oil absorbing sheets or blotting papers handy to remove excess oil and shine from your skin throughout the day.
Limit dairy and sugary foods: Some studies suggest that dairy and high-sugar foods may exacerbate acne for some people. Consider reducing your intake of these foods and observe if it has any impact on your skin.
Don’t touch your face: Avoid touching your face throughout the day, as your hands can transfer bacteria and oils to your skin, leading to breakouts.
EXCESSIVE SWEATING: Sweating increases during the summer months, which can lead to body odor and skin irritation. Showering regularly, using antiperspirants, and wearing moisturewicking clothing can help manage excessive sweating.
FUNGAL INFECTIONS: Warm, moist environments provide the perfect conditions for fungal infections like athlete’s foot and jock itch to thrive. Keeping the skin clean and dry, wearing breathable footwear, and using antifungal powders can help prevent these infections.
DEHYDRATION: Dehydration can affect the skin’s appearance and health, leading to dryness, flakiness, and increased sensitivity. Drinking plenty of water and using hydrating skincare products can help maintain skin moisture levels.
INSECT BITES AND STINGS: Mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects are more active during the summer months, increasing the risk of bites and stings. Using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding areas with high insect activity can help prevent bites and stings.
HYPERPIGMENTATION: Increased sun exposure can exacerbate existing hyperpigmentation and cause new dark spots to form. Using sunscreen consistently and incorporating products with ingredients like vitamin C and niacinamide can help lighten and prevent hyperpigmentation.
EXACERBATION OF SKIN CONDITIONS: Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea can worsen in the summer due to factors like heat, humidity, and sun exposure. Following a skincare routine tailored to your specific condition and avoiding triggers can help manage symptoms.
SKIN CANCER RISK: Prolonged sun exposure increases the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma. Regularly examining your skin for any changes or suspicious moles and scheduling annual skin checks with a dermatologist are crucial for early detection and treatment of skin cancer.
Overall, protecting your skin from the sun, staying hydrated, and practicing good skincare habits are essential for maintaining healthy skin during the summer season. If you have specific concerns or conditions, consulting a dermatologist can provide personalized advice and treatment options.
TAKING CARE of your skin is crucial due to increased sun exposure and higher temperatures. Here are some tips to keep your skin healthy and protected during the summer months.
SUNSCREEN: Apply sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) before stepping out in the sun. Reapply every two hours, especially if you’re sweating or swimming.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SUNSCREEN (my opinion) is essential for effective sun protection during the summer months. Here’s what to consider when selecting a sunscreen:
SPF (Sun Protection Factor): Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. SPF measures protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburn, so higher SPF means more protection. However, it’s important to note that no sunscreen can block 100% of the sun’s UV rays.
BROAD-SPECTRUM PROTECTION: Ensure the sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection, which means it shields your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays can prematurely age your skin and contribute to skin cancer, while UVB rays cause sunburn.
WATER RESISTANCE: If you’ll be sweating or swimming, choose a water resistant sunscreen that will stay effective for at least 40 to 80 minutes of water exposure. Remember to reapply after towel drying or swimming.
SKIN TYPE: Consider your skin type when selecting a sunscreen. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, choose a lightweight, oil-free formula labeled as “non-comedogenic” to avoid clogging pores. For dry skin, opt for a moisturizing sunscreen with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin.
TEXTURE AND FORMULATION: Sunscreens come in various forms, including lotions, creams, gels, sprays, and sticks. Choose a formulation that suits your preferences and lifestyle. For example, sprays are convenient for reapplication on the go, while sticks are handy for targeting specific areas like the face.
SENSITIVE SKIN: If you have sensitive skin or allergies, opt for a sunscreen labeled as hypoallergenic and fragrance-free to minimize the risk of irritation. Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are less likely to cause skin reactions compared to chemical sunscreens.
EXPIRATION DATE: Check the expiration date on the sunscreen before purchasing and discard any expired products. Expired sunscreen may lose its effectiveness and provide inadequate protection.
APPLICATION: Ensure you apply an adequate amount of sunscreen to cover all exposed areas of skin, including the face, neck, ears, and any other areas not covered by clothing. Don’t forget commonly overlooked areas like the tops of your feet and the back of your neck.
HYDRATION: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from within. Dehydration can make your skin look dull and increase the risk of sun damage.
COVER UP: Wear protective clothing like hats, sunglasses, and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts to shield your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
AVOID PEAK SUN HOURS: Try to stay indoors or seek shade during the hottest part of the day, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest.
MOISTURIZE: Use a lightweight, oilfree moisturizer to prevent your skin from drying out in the heat. Look for products with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin.
EXFOLIATE: Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, keeping your skin fresh and preventing clogged pores. However, be gentle, as over exfoliating can irritate the skin, especially in the summer when it’s more sensitive.
COOL SHOWERS: Take lukewarm showers instead of hot ones to avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils, which can lead to dryness and irritation.
ANTIOXIDANTS: Incorporate antioxidant-rich foods into your diet, such as fruits and vegetables, to help protect your skin from free radical damage caused by sun exposure.
AVOID HARSH PRODUCTS: Skip products containing harsh chemicals or alcohol, as they can further dry out or irritate your skin, making it more sensitive to the sun.
Wish everyone a great summer ahead and flaunt the best version of your skin.
(The writer is MBBS MD Dermatology and Board Certified Dermato-surgeon, practicing at Anusukh Skin & Hair Institute, Sainik Colony National Highway, Jammu).
