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Don't let summer season harm your skin (Source: Getty Images)The summer season can be particularly harsh on the skin, posing several risks and challenges. The increased exposure to sunlight can lead to sunburns, rashes, tanning, premature ageing, and an increased risk of skin cancer. As such, it’s crucial to understand how one can address these common skincare concerns and attain healthy and glowing skin.
Talking about the same, Dr Aanchal Panth, a dermatologist, took to Instagram to share a few common summer skin conditions and ways to manage them.
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Heat rash
Heat rash or miliaria, according to the dermatologist, occurs due to obstruction of eccrine sweat glands or ducts. “This is common in summer and occurs in areas of high humidity,” she said, suggesting ways to manage them.
*Cold water bath
*Calamine-based soothing lotion
*Wear pure cotton clothing
*Visit a dermatologist if facing severe itching
Adding, Dr Rinky Kapoor, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic Dermatologist and Dermato-Surgeon, The Esthetic Clinics suggested taking cool showers to manage heat rashes. “Try to wear loose-fitting cotton clothes, drink a lot of water to avoid dehydration, and do not use chemical-laden products or perfumed products that can aggravate the rashes. Avoid excessive sweating, such as in hot, humid environments, and stay in an air-conditioned room.”
To prevent them, she suggested keeping the skin as dry, cool, and clean as possible. “Avoid creams and ointments that can block pores causing a rash. Avoid fabrics which irritate your skin, like wool or nylon,” Dr Kapoor said.
Apply sunscreen without a miss (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
Sunburn
According to Dr Panth, sunburn occurs when skin is exposed to excessive high-intensity UV radiation. “UVB is responsible for burn,” she said, suggesting ways to manage the same.
*Apply soothing aloe vera gel
*Do not rub ice directly as this can make the injury worse
*Avoid hot water shower on that area
*Moisturise with a bland emollient 3 times a day
*Protect the area from sun
To avoid sunburns, Dr Kapoor recommended using a sunscreen of SPF 50 at least twice a day, daily. “Wear full-sleeved loose clothes, hats, and sunglasses, and cover the face with a scarf to avoid sunburn. Seek shade or you can even avoid going out when there is scorching heat outside that is from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Use an SPF lip balm to prevent the lips from sunburn,” she said.
Tanning
Tanning, on the other hand, is caused by excess sun exposure which stimulates melanocyte cells to make more pigment melanin. Dr Panth suggested following these measures.
*Sun protection is most important. Regular sunscreen application, avoid mid-day sun and practise sun avoidance.
*Gentle chemical exfoliants with moisturisers help
*Glycolic acid-based creams help in lightening tan.
Dr Kapoor, too, said that exfoliating the skin from time to time helps. “Use sunscreen, and opt for aloe vera gel to get rid of tanning. Also ensure to keep yourself covered by wearing full-sleeved clothes. Further, cucumber slices, and cold compress can help to tackle tanning. Follow these vital tips without fail,” the dermatologist said.
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