Summers come with long, hot days and outdoor activities, but along with this, there is an increasing risk in different skin infections as well.. Hot weather conditions promote the growth of bacteria, fungi, and viruses, making the skin more prone to infections. It starts from irritation and becomes serious when left untreated. Excess sweating due to hot weather is responsible for the growth of microbes that affect your skin. To protect your skin from infections, maintain proper hygiene by taking a cold shower after heavy sweating and always try to wear loose clothes of cotton or linen fabric. With the simple adjustments in lifestyle, skincare tips and following proper hygiene practices, you can get rid of skin infections during summers.
Why does summer bring different skin infections?
Weather with warm and strong heat waves promotes a perfect environment for microbes to affect your skin. The factors that are responsible for high rates of skin injuries are chafing and friction, because the skin folds, and wearing tight clothes can trap moisture and cause rashes and irritations. Excess sweating can provide moisture and the growth of bacteria and fungus. Sun exposure for a long time can damage the skin barrier, and it's the major reason for infections. During outdoor activities like the gym, swimming pool and crowded areas, the infectious agents can increase on our skin. Understanding these factors can prevent the risk of skin infections.
Some Common Skin Infections
- Fungal Infections
Fungal infections can occur more frequently due to excess moisture and heat. The common types of fungal infections are athlete's feet that cause irritation, itching and pilling between the toes. Ringworm, the signs are red circular patches with clear centre points that affect the legs and arms. Jock itch in the groin area presents as itchy and red patches. The main causes of fungal infections are the sharing of footwear and towels. They can occur in moist areas and spread infections.
- Bacterial Infections
Bacterial infections are common due to sweating or insect bites that compromise the integrity of the skin. Major bacterial infections include boils and abscesses; these are pus-filled lumps and can be painful. This infection is caused by a bacterial infection of hair follicles. Impetigo, these are blisters or red sores basically on limbs and face. Folliculitis is caused by inflammation of hair follicles and is activated due to friction and sweating.
- Viral Infections
Some viral infections can take place during the summer. Chicken pox is rare, but in adults, shingles can appear. Reduced immunity, sun exposure and minor injuries can promote viral infections.
Conditions Due To Excess Heat
Heat-related conditions can simulate infections: aggravating factors due to tight clothing, humid weather and excess sweating. Millaria is caused by blocked sweat ducts, which can appear as small red bumps. The conditions different from infections can be resolved by proper hygienic measures and with cooling.
Preventive Tips For Skin Infections
Better hygiene practices are the first step to defending against infections, by taking a shower after swimming or heavy sweating, using clean towels and wearing clean and loose clothes, keeping your hands clean after touching the communal surfaces and avoiding sharing your personal belongings with anyone. Appropriate clothing methods can help to reduce moisture, friction and sun-related damage. Prefer to wear clothes made of cotton fabric so that they absorb sweat. During exercise, use moisture-wicking clothes. Apply sunscreen before going outside to prevent skin infections and sunburns. Avoid using oily products because they can trap moisture.
When To Consult With A Dermatologist?
Medical consultations are recommended when infections are not improving with the basic preventive measures. When you are facing pus, swelling or redness in any body part on a regular basis, then without any delay, consult with a doctor. Spread of rashes and intense pain are the signs that you don't have to ignore, as they can result in major skin issues. Diagnosis at an early stage and treatment on time can prevent complications from bacterial and fungal infections.
Conclusion
With the increase in heat and humidity, the risk of bacterial and fungal skin infections also increases. First, try to prevent these with basic hygiene practices, such as showering immediately after sweating or swimming to keep your skin clean. Use antifungal powders in summer and breathable clothing. But when they are not improving, then consult with Dr. Gurinderjit Singh Puri, the best dermatologist of Puri Skin Clinic, to get accurate guidance for managing different skin infections.
FAQ'S
What's the tip to prevent athlete's feet in public swimming pools?
The best tip is to wear flip flops in communal areas and use antifungal powder to keep the feet dry and prevent fungal infections.
How can sunscreen trigger skin infections?
Usage of sunscreen is safe and can trigger infections, but not oily formulations, because it can trap sweat and moisture, leading to acne.
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