Preventable Summer Skincare Pitfalls
As we embrace the warmer weather and sunshine, more time outside means more exposure to environmental factors that affect our skin. During the winter, people aren’t faced with the same challenges as during summer months, but planning now can help keep your skin looking and feeling good. This summer, instead of taking a reactive approach to skincare, find out about common pitfalls that can easily be avoided with some planning and commitment.
Unwanted Summer Rashes and Acne Breakouts
Summer can quickly get sidelined with an unsightly rash. Rashes that are itchy and can quickly turn from red to scaly and flaky, and painful! Avoid common pitfalls that cause rashes, starting with acne breakouts. Warmer weather means we sweat more. Sweat mixes with our body’s oils, bacteria, and dirt particles in the air. Pores can get clogged, and anyone with acne-prone skin gets breakouts. One specific way dermatologists recommend taking a proactive approach to acne breakouts this summer is to use blotting papers or a clean towel to keep sweat from building up. Wiping can irritate skin, so dab instead of rubbing vigorously. Clothes that have sweat on them, including towels and hats, should be washed before using them again. If there is a temptation to wear the same shirt to the gym, or a headband that doesn’t look dirty, don’t risk it and wash them between uses. Products matter, and when the skin is warmer, they need high-quality non-comedogenic products, especially on the face and neck. It is common for men to suffer acne breakouts on their chests and back in hotter weather. Products that claim not to clog pores are likely ok to use for those areas prone to breakouts.
Avoiding Dry Skin and Eczema Breakouts
People who live in humid climates may think they don’t need to worry about dry skin this summer, but this is a common misunderstanding for people of all skin colors. Humid air can still leave skin dry and itchy. Time in the sun, a chlorinated pool, and air conditioning all have drying elements that affect the skin. If any of these things are going to be part of your summer, consider taking some measures to keep your skin hydrated.
Some of the most common ways to avoid drying out skin are rinsing off chlorine or salt water after being in the water. A mild cleanser and shampoo can help prevent hair and skin from drying out. Using sunscreen is recommended, which can prevent painful and damaging sunburn. Using warm showers instead of steaming hot ones can help avoid drying out the skin, as well as moisturizing after showering. Using a lotion or moisturizer while the skin is still damp can help it soak into the skin and retain more moisture. Have a hand moisturizer in different locations and use it after washing hands. Also, drink plenty of water and hydrate from the inside out!
Keeping Heat Rash at Bay
Our glands get clogged up with sweat and dirt. As this builds up, skin can break out in bumps that look like pimples. These little bumps can pop and release sweat, causing a prickling sensation. This is heat rash and can easily be avoided this summer. Some of the best ways to prevent heat rash are to wear loose-fitting clothing – skip the jeans and pantyhose for work. Find clothes that fit well but are not too snug, where the skin can’t release heat. Athletes and those who enjoy working out should consider doing it at the cooler parts of the day. Early mornings, evenings, or working out indoors can help minimize the risk of getting heat rash. Personal use fans, cool showers during the day, and staying in air conditioning on extremely hot days can help keep our skin out of defense mode.
Stay Away from Questionable Water
In lakes and other bodies of water that have shallow areas, there is a risk of getting parasites that burrow into the skin. These parasites must be rubbed off, and anytime there is a water warning sign present, stay out. Once your skin is exposed to infested water, you can rub the parasites off and not allow the water to dry naturally on the skin. Children are more susceptible because they tend to stay in the warm, shallow areas for wading. It is a good idea to wash with soap after any time in the water, whether a pool, jacuzzi, ocean, lake, or public pool. The skin needs to be cleaned and moisturized to stay in top condition for the summer.
This summer, avoid the common pitfalls of skincare, and plan ahead to have what you need for your active lifestyle. Use daily sunscreen to prevent dark spots from darkening and early signs of aging. Living in Atlanta allows people options for spending time outdoors this summer, but protect your skin and avoid the pitfalls. If any skin concerns last and don’t go away or get worse, contact Buckhead Dermatology and let Dr. Sherrie Straugh help find a custom solution.