Quick Remedies for Summer Skin Problems

Summer time is still around the corner. Summer brings excitement to many people as this is the time when they can spend more time outdoors. However, the summer heat and humidity can have a serious effect on your skin. That is why many skin problems come out during summer. Among others, these problems include sunburns and insect bites. It would be good to know some of these common summer skin problems with their quick remedies so that you can be more prepared for them and enjoy the rest of your summer.

1. Sunburn

Hours of exposure to the strong heat of the sun can result to sunburn especially if your skin is unprotected. Using sunscreen and minimizing exposure to the sun from 10 am to 4 am can reduce that risk. However, if you already have sunburn, you can alleviate the pain and lessen the inflammation by applying a vinegar solution. Prepare equal parts sugar and cool water and soak a clean cloth in the solution then apply it to the affected area for about 15 minutes for three times a day.

2. Mosquito bite

Mosquitoes and other insect bites (stings) are also common during summer. One way to reduce the itchiness and inflammation is to hold an ice cube on the affected area for several minutes. Another natural remedy is to apply aloe vera gel which has anti-inflammatory properties that can also help reduce the itchiness.

3. Skin chafing

Some people are also prone to skin chaffing, a condition when the skin suffers from micro tears as a result of skin rubbing or wearing certain synthetic fabrics. To avoid this, apply cornstarch powder on your arms and thighs and other parts of your body prone to chaffing before setting out.

4. Excessive sweating

The warm and humid temperature outside can cause excessive sweating for some people. You cannot really stop sweating, but choosing the right clothes can make a big difference. Choose lighter and breathable clothes every time you have to go outdoors. Also keep yourself hydrated by drinking water from time to time.

5. Heat rash

Heat rash occurs when your perspiration is trapped under the skin. It is characterized by having bumpy and itchy tiny blisters which more often appear on the skin fords or where your clothes cause friction. This condition will just go away on its own after several days. However, it also causes much discomfort because of the itchiness and the burning sensation especially during sleep.

Wearing lightweight, soft and loose-fitting clothes can help stop the irritation on the skin. To soothe the discomfort, you could also apply an ice pack on the affected area and let it stay for several minutes. You may do it for several times a day.

6. Athlete’s foot

This fungal infection can strike anytime of the year but this is more prevalent during summer. Its symptoms include having peeling and flaking skin on the foot that normally comes with crusting and oozing blisters. There are several over-the-counter anti-fungal creams that can treat this condition, including Lotrimin and Lamisil. Follow the directions on the package when applying the cream.

7. Hives

Hives normally occur as a reaction to various types of allergens such as insect bites, animal dander, pollen and even some types of food. They may also occur during extreme heat or cold, or when a person sweats excessively. Hives appear as red-raised welts anywhere on the body. Mild cases of hives can go away on their own after a few hours. If itching occurs, you can alleviate the itchiness by applying an antihistamine such as Zyrtec or Benadryl. Also avoid wearing tight clothing as it can worsen the symptoms.

8. Ingrown hairs

Ingrown hair occurs when dead skin clogs the follicles and block the hairs’ exit, causing the hairs to curl under the skin surface. This in turn will result to itchy and red line bumps or ingrown hair. To solve this problem, you can exfoliate your skin with a gentle scrub during shower for several times a day. This can unclog the follicles, allowing the hair to grow normally.

9. Shiny skin

When the temperature is warm and humid, your oil glands might start to produce more oil, resulting to a shiny skin especially on the face. To solve this problem, use skin care products with oil-absorbing capabilities such as those that contain clay, mild AHA or phytic acid.

10. Yeast infection

A warm temperature and moist condition are significant factors that contribute to yeast infection which normally occurs in private parts of the body and even in the armpit. Symptoms include swelling, redness, irritation and itchiness. If you have yeast infection, see your doctor for advice on its appropriate treatment.

Now that you know the quick remedies for some of the most common summer skin problems, you would be able to better prepare yourself before going outdoors.