You're more likely to encounter skin problems when the temperature soars, be it rashes, big bites or burns---it goes with the territory of being outdoors. Knowing how to prevent and---when all else fails---treat common conditions means you'll have a lot more time for fun in the sun.
Polymorphous Light Eruption (PMLE)
Exposure to ultraviolet radiation from tanning beds or sunlight can cause an itchy, red rash called polymorphous light eruption on the front of the neck or on arms, thighs or the chest, says Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource. It recommends anyone with fair skin or minimal exposure to the sun should initially limit her time in the sun come summer, allowing skin to gradually get acclimated to sun exposure. Using sunblock helps prevent the rash from occurring in the first place.
Acne
When it's hot out, oil production in the skin increases, according to UT Southwestern Medical Center. This can lead to breakouts on the face, back and chest. Using a product containing salicylic acid or benzoil peroxide on acne-prone areas at least once a day and avoiding clothing made of synthetic fiber can help, according to CareFair.com. It's also a good idea to use oil-free makeup and sunscreen.
Heat Rash
Heat rash, or miliaria rubra, happens when sweat ducts trap perspiration beneath the skin, clogging sweat glands and creating red spots or bumpy, blister-like markings, according to the Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource. Heat rash most often appears on the body where friction occurs or in folds of skin. Wearing breathable, soft, lightweight clothing can help prevent heat rash from occurring. Keeping skin cool, using hydrocortisone cream and using cool water compresses can help alleviate the rash.
Bug Bites
Miniscule red mites, called chiggers, live in the grass and weeds, while ticks can be found in grassy and wooded areas come summer. Capable of causing redness and itching, ticks also are responsible for more serious conditions, such as Lyme disease. Therefore, it's important to guard against these bites, says HealthSource. Wear protective clothing, use an insect repellent that contains DEET and wash skin once you're indoors. HealthSource recommends treating itching with hydrocortisone cream, but Lyme disease, which results in a bullseye-like rash and flu-like symptoms, requires treatment and antibiotics from a doctor.
Poisonous Plants
Coming into contact with poison ivy and poison oak, both of which contain urushiol, usually results in swollen, blistered and extremely itchy skin. Avoiding three-leafed plants is important. When camping or hiking, HealthSource also recommends wearing a skin product containing bentoquatam, as it prevents urushiol from penetrating skin. If you do come into contact with these poisonous plants, immediately wash skin with soap and water. Cool showers and a hydrocortisone cream may help relieve symptoms, HealthSource notes, but more severe rashes likely require a doctor visit and prescription oral corticosteroid.
