Now that we spend a lot of time outside, the increased exposure to things like sunlight, insects and poisonous plants causes some itchy and painful skin rashes. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps people can take to prevent unwanted rashes and other skin problems while still enjoying the outdoors. To help prevent and treat common summer rashes and other skin problems, we have the following tips:
Heat rash
When your sweat glands are blocked, it can cause heat rash and small, itchy bumps on your skin. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting cotton clothing to avoid heat rash on hot days, and plan your outdoor activities for the coolest parts of the day if possible. Keep your skin cool at home with fans and air conditioning and by taking cool showers.
Poisonous plants
Many people develop skin rashes after coming into contact with poisonous plants, such as poison ivy, sumac, and wild parsnip. To avoid rashes from these types of plants, you need to learn how to spot them and then avoid them. If you are spending time in a wooded area or in an area known to have poisonous plants, cover your skin with clothing, including long sleeves, pants, socks, and boots. If you do come into contact with these plants, rinse your skin immediately with lukewarm soapy water. Because the oils from poison ivy and sumac can linger on objects for a long time, wash anything that may have come in contact with the plants, including your clothing. If you develop a rash, leave blisters alone and avoid scratching. Apply calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream for relief. However, if the rash is extensive or not relieved by these medications, call a board-certified dermatologist.
Sunburn
Sunburn is better prevented than treated. To avoid sunburn, seek shade, wear sun-protective clothing — including a wide-brimmed hat — and apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all skin not covered by clothing. Remember to reapply your sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or sweating. If you do get a sunburn, place a cold, damp towel on the area for 10-15 minutes a few times a day or take a bath or shower in cold water to relieve the pain. You can also apply a moisturizer or hydrocortisone cream. Avoid creams containing petroleum, benzocaine or lidocaine, which can irritate your skin.
Swimmer's itch
If you notice an itchy rash on your skin after wading or swimming in a lake or ocean, you may have swimmer's itch. This rash is caused by parasites that burrow into your skin in areas that your swimsuit doesn't cover. If you get this rash, do not go back in the water. Relieve the itching by applying a corticosteroid cream or cool compress or by soaking in a colloidal oatmeal bath.
Seabather's outburst
Also called pica-pica, this itchy rash develops in people who go in the Caribbean Sea and the waters off Florida and Long Island, New York. It happens when newly hatched jellyfish or sea anemones get caught between your skin and your swimsuit, fins, or other gear. The best way to avoid this rash is to stay out of contaminated water – this is often indicated on nearby signs. However, if you think you've been exposed, take off your swimwear as soon as possible and rinse it in fresh water. To kill any larvae trapped in the fabric, wash your swimwear in warm water and put it in the dryer. To relieve the itch, apply a cool compress, soak in a colloidal oatmeal bath, or apply calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream. Taking an antihistamine pill may also help.
Insect bites
While most insect bites are harmless, some can spread dangerous diseases such as Zika virus, dengue, Lyme disease, and malaria. To avoid insect bites, especially in areas with known insect-borne diseases, use insect repellent containing 20 to 30% DEET and wear appropriate clothing such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, socks, and closed-toe shoes instead of sandals. To treat painful bites, such as a bee sting, take a pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. For itchy bites, apply an ice pack or an anti-itch cream, such as hydrocortisone. To reduce swelling, apply an ice pack to the bite.
Irritation of the face mask
Although wearing a face mask is not necessary for solo activities such as gardening, it is mandatory in some places. However, wearing masks can lead to skin problems – such as acne or dryness – without taking the proper precautions. To avoid irritation from wearing a mask, make sure your mask is close-fitting but comfortable and made of breathable fabric, such as cotton. Avoid synthetics, such as nylon, polyester, and rayon, as they are more likely to irritate your skin and cause breakouts. Wash your masks after each use, and don't put on make-up. If you must put on makeup, look for products labeled "non-comedogenic" or "oil-free." In addition, be gentle on your skin. Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers. Limit facial cleansing to twice a day and after sweating and apply a moisturizer before and after wearing your mask, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin.
