The most common skin problems and protection in summer: advice from dermatologists

Leather – a sensitive organ that instantly responds to changes in environmental conditions and exposure to various chemicals. That is why experts recommend choosing skin care products, focusing not only on age and skin type, but also on the season of their application: in winter, the skin is protected from low temperatures, in spring – nourish with vitamins, in the fall – prepare for the winter, and in the summer they try not to abuse makeup and choose light products. In addition, there are skin problems typical of summer: high temperatures and aggressive solar radiation not only accelerate the aging process in the long term, but can also cause many inconveniences, which, according to dermatologists, can be avoided by following the basic rules for protecting the skin in summer.

Skin protection in summer: what measures should be taken to avoid problems

Problems such as itchy skin and burns – frequent phenomena in the summer, which cause particular trouble if they affect the face area. In most cases, you can prevent them by following the advice of dermatologists.

1. Acne (acne)

Excessive sweating in hot weather means sweat, sebum and bacteria present on everyone's skin can block pores. This problem is especially acute for people prone to acne.

Therefore, dermatologists recommend the following protection for the skin in summer:

• to clean the skin of sweat, blot it with a clean napkin or towel; avoid rubbing your face as this can irritate your skin and cause acne;
• remember to wash your clothes, hats and towels before putting them on after the previous wear;
• Use non-comedogenic facial products for face, neck, back and chest.

2. Dryness and irritation of the skin

If you experience dry skin and irritation despite moisture, try:

• shower and wash your hair immediately after swimming with clean water and a mild body cleanser;
• apply sunscreen to your face before going outside in the summer, and if you're going to the beach or pool, make sure it's moisture-resistant;
• try to avoid antibacterial skin products – such products dry the skin;
• try to wash not with hot, but with warm water;
• Buy a fragrance-free moisturizer and apply it to your skin after bathing or showering.

3. Folliculitis

Every hair on your body originates in a depression called a follicle. In case of infection of these skin structures, folliculitis develops. Infected hair follicles look like purulent pimples, which are also itchy and painful when touched. To reduce the risk of this problem:

• remove sportswear and take a shower immediately after training;
• do not visit unverified pools, hot tubs;
• avoid wearing tight and synthetic clothing in hot weather.

4. Melasma

Sun exposure can make melasma (brown spots on the skin of the face) more noticeable, so summer skin protection includes the following:

• apply sunscreen (minimum SPF 30) before going out;
• wearing a wide-brimmed hat;
• Use products that do not irritate the skin.

Acne, dryness, irritation and sunburn – the most common skin problems to protect against in summer.

5. Rash and irritation caused by poisonous plants

Itching, burning, redness of the skin and the appearance of a rash – these symptoms may appear as a result of contact with a poisonous plant. To avoid this problem, it is better to get acquainted with the list of such plants that are found in the area where you are.

6. Sweating

The blockage of the sebaceous glands causes sweat to accumulate under the skin without an outlet, causing rashes and tiny itchy blisters. Any effort to minimize sweating will reduce the likelihood of symptoms of prickly heat, including:

• wearing light and loose clothing made from natural fabrics;
• being in the shade (if possible);
• use of indoor air conditioners.

7. Allergy to sunlight

Certain drugs or sensitivity to sunlight (usually hereditary) – one more reason to ensure proper skin protection in summer:

• If your doctor prescribes medications, ask them if they cause problems when you are in the sun (such a side effect can occur with certain antibiotics and pain medications, for example);
• protect your skin as much as possible from sun exposure (sunscreen SPF 30+, shade, sunglasses, hats, clothes).

Try not to be in the sun, especially at lunchtime, without sunscreen and glasses.

8. Sunburn

Sunburn – perhaps the most common problem that each of us has encountered at least once in a lifetime. The rules for protecting the skin from burns in the summer are simple and known to everyone, but our portal considers it not superfluous to recall them:

• be sure to apply sunscreen before going outside;
• don't sunbathe during peak hours of the sun (from 12:00 to 14:00);
• Apply sunscreen regularly at the beach, even if the tube says it's waterproof;
• wear sunglasses, hats, clothes that cover the skin as much as possible.

Read also: Skin care in summer: 3 main problems

Don't forget that it's summertime – it's not only warm days and a pleasant holiday at sea. Your skin needs protection and attention. It is very important to take precautions when out in the sun to prevent the problems described above.