As temperatures rise and we spend more time outdoors, our skin becomes more vulnerable to a variety of seasonal irritations. From sunburn to insect bites, summer skin issues can be both uncomfortable and harmful if left untreated.
“Summer’s heat and sun can cause can cause some bothersome changes to the skin. More time outdoors means your skin is exposed to more,” says Karlee Curtis, a Family Medicine Physician Assistant at ThedaCare Physicians-Appleton at Gateway Drive. “It’s important to protect and care for skin during the summer.”
Here, we explore common summer skin issues.
Sunburn
What it is: Caused by excessive exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, the common symptoms of sunburn include redness, swelling, pain, itching and sometimes blistering.
How to avoid it: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Reapply at least every two hours, or as often as every 40 to 80 minutes if you’re swimming or sweating heavily. Other smart steps include wearing a hat and sunglasses, and seeking shade during peak sun hours of approximately 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wearing ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) clothing also can help.
How to treat it: Apply cool, damp cloths and moisturizers. Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed.
When to seek care: If you develop large blisters. Seek care right away if your sunburn is accompanied by fever, chills, weakness, confusion, dizziness, nausea or vomiting.
Heat Rash
What it is: Sometimes called prickly heat, heat rash leads to tiny, red, raised bumps along with a burning sensation and itching. It occurs when sweat ducts get blocked.
How to avoid it: Wear loose-fitting and breathable clothing. Stay cool and hydrated.
How to treat it: Take cool showers, wear loose clothing and avoid the heat.
When to seek care: Contact your primary care provider’s office if your condition doesn’t improve.
Acne
What it is: Caused when sweat, oil and bacteria mix together and clog pores, acne is more common in the summer.
How to avoid it: Use oil-free or non-comedogenic makeup and sunscreen. Wash your face morning and night and after activity. Avoid touching your face.
How to treat it: Use gentle cleansers, toners and over-the-counter acne treatments.
When to seek care: Contact your primary care provider if your acne is severe and over-the-counter treatments don’t work.
Mosquito Bites
What they are: This one likely needs no explanation. These red, itchy welts result from bothersome bites.
How to avoid them: Wear an Environmental Protection Agency-approved insect repellant. Cover exposed skin when outdoors. Avoid having standing water around your home. Exercise extra caution when traveling internationally.
How to treat them: Wash bites with soap and water. Avoid scratching. Apply ice packs for 10 minutes to reduce swelling and itching. Use over-the-counter anti-itch or antihistamine creams.
When to seek care: If you experience a high fever, severe swelling or signs of infection, or if you’re bitten while traveling in a geographical area known for mosquito-borne diseases.
Insect Stings
What they are: Stings from bees and other insects that can lead to pain, swelling, redness, itching, warmth and hives.
How to avoid them: Use caution when drinking sweet beverages outdoors. Cover food containers and trash cans. Take meals indoors during the height of bee season. Wear closed-toe shoes when walking outside. Avoid wearing scented products and perfumes.
How to treat them:
- Remove the stinger by gently scraping across the site with a blunt-edged object such as a credit card, dull knife or fingernail. Don’t squeeze or try to pull out the stinger, as this may release more venom.
- Wash the area well with soap and water.
- Use an ice pack wrapped in a clean, thin cloth to help reduce swelling and pain. Apply for 10 minutes on and 10 minutes off, for a total of 30 to 60 minutes.
- If the sting is on an arm or leg, keep the limb raised to help reduce swelling.
When to seek care: If you suspect a severe allergic reaction, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. Also seek emergency care if a child, older adult or person with heart or breathing problems suffers multiple stings.
The list of summer skin concerns goes on. Get additional, comprehensive guidance from ThedaCare experts on tick bites and poisonous plants.
Here for Your Summer Care Needs
“Caring for your skin in the summer mostly comes down to a few essentials,” Curtis says. “Use a sunscreen every day, keep your skin clean, and take steps to protect yourself from bites, stings, and irritants.”
If you have a skin concern or other care need this summer, our teams are here for you. Options include visiting your primary care provider’s office, virtual care, and urgent and walk-in care.
