How to Avoid Dryness in Summer Months
For those who experience dry skin in the winter months, they may be surprised when symptoms persist into the humid summer months. Dry skin is often associated with the cold of winter, but what a lot of people don’t know is that the heat from the dry summer air causes dry skin as well. Our dermatologists at Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute can help you understand more about how to avoid dryness in summer months. We will help you combat dryness, as well as understand what causes it.
Causes of Dry Skin in the Summer
The best part of summer is feeling the sunlight hit your skin. If you are not wearing any protection and are in the sunlight often, it can be damaging to your skin. The ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can cause the skin to try out in addition to potentially causing skin cancer. The sunlight absorbs the moisture from the skin leaving it dry and flaky.
The pool you jump in to cool off from the sunlight may also cause dry skin. The chemicals from the chlorine can strip the skin of its needed moisture, leaving it dry and chalky.
In addition to sunlight and chlorine-filled pools stripping our skin of moisture, air conditioning can have the same effect. The air conditioning can strip our skin of any moisture it has left leaving it to feel dry and dehydrated. Fortunately, there are many ways to rehydrate the skin and have you feeling comfortable in your own skin again.
How to Combat Dry Skin in the Summer
There is no need to hide inside or not turn your air conditioner on all summer to avoid dry skin. These tips can help you stick to your daily routine while still having hydrated skin. Before going out in the sun, make sure to use a strong sunscreen to protect your skin from sunburns or other sun damage. This will help your skin retain moisture. If you end up with a sunburn, use a good moisturizer or aloe to help your skin rehydrate. Continue using these products until your sunburn is gone or until your skin feels like the moisture is being retained.
Another great tip to remember is to shower as soon as you get out of the pool. Wash your skin with soap and water to flush out the chlorine.
After a long day in the sun, make sure you have consumed enough water. It is important to stay hydrated on those hot summer days. Your skin can become dehydrated and begin to lack moisture once dehydration begins.
In conjunction with your air conditioner, use a humidifier to keep moisture in the air and in your skin. A humidifier works well all year long, including the winter when your skin may also become dryer than normal.
Contact Us
We are confident these tips can help eliminate any dry skin issues you may be having. If you have any questions or concerns, our dermatologists at Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute can help you feel comfortable in your skin again. If you are in Bloomington, Illinois or the surrounding areas, get in touch with us.