Springtime and Rashes: How to Enjoy the Sun Without the Rash
Taking proper care of your skin year-round can help you avoid rashes or skin damage from occurring due to the changing weather. Having a daily routine that you follow can ensure your skin stays hydrated, healthy, and undamaged. The dermatologists at Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute have tips on proper skincare routines that will allow you to safely enjoy the sun.
How to Avoid Rashes in the Spring
How to Plan Your Skincare Routine
Spring is near, and the sun will be shining soon. Having a plan in place now to protect your skin will help you determine a routine and products that work before you risk any skin damage from the sun. Finding your perfect skincare routine requires knowing your skin type. You will want to determine if you have dry, oily, or combination skin. This will help you choose the most effective skincare products.
Once you have determined your skin type, you can plan your routine. First, you want to cleanse your face with a gentle face wash to ensure you start with a clean slate. Next, use a moisturizer to hydrate the skin. If you have oily or combination skin, you will want to use a light gel or moisturizing serum. All moisturizers should include ceramides and hyaluronic acid to see the best results. Lastly, you will want to use an SPF of 30 or higher. This will help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Although you may follow these steps routinely, there is still a chance of skin damage, though a skincare routine will help lower your risk.
Types of Skin Damage
Damage from the sun can include rashes, sun damage, or in serious cases, skin cancer. Rashes may include polymorphous light eruptions. This rash develops in those with a sensitivity to the sun. It appears red with tiny bumps or raised patches of skin. It most often appears on the chest, legs, or arms, the areas most exposed to the sun. It typically appears 30 minutes to a few hours after sun exposure. The rash shouldn’t cause any pain and will likely go away on its own after a few days. Limiting your time in the sun can help stop the rash from appearing even if you have applied sunscreen.
Sun damage to the skin often appears in the form of sunburn or sunspots. If the skin isn’t protected with sunscreen, your skin will burn and turn red. In severe cases, the skin may blister and peel off and can become painful. Pain can be eased with aloe but can be avoided by regularly applying sunscreen to any exposed body parts.
Skin cancer is the worst case scenario for skin that has been repeatedly damaged by the sun. It can happen at any age and to males or females and often appears in the form of a new or changed mole. Knowing what to look for can save your life, as skin cancer can develop and spread quickly. We highly recommend yearly checkups with a dermatologist who can help look for signs of skin cancer.
Wearing sunscreen is so important, even on days where you don’t see the sun. It is hiding behind the clouds and can still cause rashes or skin damage. If you are in Bloomington, Illinois, or the surrounding area, complete this form. The dermatologists at the Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute want to help you enjoy the sun while being safe!