How the Summer Can Exacerbate Rashes
Do you notice redness or rashes after being out in the sun? That’s because the sun can exacerbate rashes. Knowing how to protect your skin to avoid the rash from the beginning or prevent it from getting worse can help keep your skin healthy and glowing. The dermatologists at the Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute share what to do if you have sensitive skin and how to avoid a bad rash.
How Summer Weather Causes Rashes
Sun Damage
Everyone looks forward to the summer to finally see the sun and enjoy the outdoors. Sometimes there is so much excitement we forget to protect our skin. Knowing if you have sensitive skin is important to know what steps to take for proper sun protection. Sun damage can occur on bright, sunny days or on cloudy days. Sun damage can appear in the form of a sunburn, rash, or skin cancer.
When SPF 30 or higher sunscreen isn’t worn or reapplied, it can result in a sunburn. Your skin will turn red and be painful to the touch. If you have sensitive skin, you will want to make sure you always lather on sunscreen before heading outdoors. If you are going to be in water, it is important to reapply sunscreen as necessary.
Sun damage can also occur in the form of a rash. The sun often exacerbates rashes you already have, made worse by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. This kind of rash is most often referred to as polymorphous light eruption. When you have a sensitivity to sunlight, this rash can appear as red, tiny bumps and raised patches of skin. The rash can last for up to 10 days but often goes away on its own. First signs of the rash typically occur a few hours after your skin has been exposed to the sun. The main cause of the rash is UV radiation and photosensitivity, a sensitivity to light. Females and those with fair skin are most at risk.
Lastly, skin cancer may appear because of numerous sunburns; you can assume you are at high risk for skin cancer if your skin is sensitive to the sun. Skin cancer can appear after a few sunburns or after years of sunburns. Looking for moles is a great way to determine if you have signs of skin cancer or not. An annual checkup with a dermatologist or doing an annual self-exam can help you get a diagnosis before the skin cancer has spread.
Sun Protection
The best way to protect your skin from sunburns, polymorphous light eruption and skin cancer is to wear sunscreen, wear protective clothing and sunglasses, and find shade as much as possible. Wearing an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen every day can keep your skin protected. It should be applied daily in the morning before heading outdoors. Covering your arms and legs and wearing sunglasses can help other exposed areas stay covered and avoid the chance of a sunburn or exacerbated rash. Also, take breaks from the sun every hour by finding a shaded area.
We know you love summer and the sun, but protecting yourself can keep your rashes at bay and the sunburns away. It can also lower your risk for skin cancer. If you are in Bloomington, Illinois or the surrounding areas, complete this form to learn more about protecting your skin from the sun. A dermatologist from the Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute will then be in touch.