As the summer season approaches, many individuals who are active outdoors may experience skin problems due to heat and friction. Dr. Vicky Zhen Ren, an associate professor of dermatology at Baylor College of Medicine, has provided some tips on how to protect your skin from the challenges posed by the summer heat.
"There are two types of contact dermatitis: allergic and irritant," said Ren. "Irritant contact dermatitis is commonly caused by bodily fluids, such as sweat, and is common during the hotter months." Irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) manifests as a patchy, scaly red rash. The damage typically occurs with repeated exposure to the irritant. In the summer months, sweat often acts as a common irritant. Other frequent causes include regular exposure to soap and water. ICD can also result from moisture or sweat trapped under jewelry and smartwatches.
Ren suggests removing jewelry during outdoor activities and maintaining clean hygiene practices with all wearable items. "If you’re tracking your workouts with smartwatches, try not make them too tight around your wrist, pat the area dry when you are taking breaks, and make sure to thoroughly clean these areas with soap and water to avoid bacterial growth," Ren advised.
While ICD is triggered by external factors, chafing results from friction caused by skin or clothing rubbing against other skin surfaces. Commonly affected areas include armpits and thighs. Women may experience chafing under their breasts if they wear tight sports bras. Individuals with excessive amounts of skin folds have a higher risk of experiencing chafing.
To prevent skin irritation during hot weather, Ren recommends wearing loose-fitting clothing and avoiding canvas shoes which can inhibit moisture evaporation from the feet. Petroleum jelly can be applied to areas prone to or already suffering from chafing. Keeping these areas clean and moisturized will promote recovery.
"People with sensitive skin may also encounter irritation when swimming in chlorinated waters this summer. This can be remedied by rinsing off after each swim and ensuring your skin is well moisturized," Ren added.
