Keep skin infections at bay this summer

Chennai

The commonest of skin problems is prickly heat, an itchy rash of small and raised red spots that causes a stinging or prickling sensation on the skin, points out Dr Subhashini Mohan a dermatologist. She adds that though people think that a coating of talcum powder will keep the skin dry, it also tends to clog the pores of the skin. “Prickly heat can be kept at bay  through adequate consumption of water and seasonal fruit like watermelons, musk melons and tender coconuts,” she says, adding that many develop skin diseases because there is no space for the skin to breath, due to tight clothes. “Constricted clothing are a big no during  summer,” she adds.

Prickly heat can also progress to become boils that can be painful. “Boils on the skin can later become bacterial infection and one must consult a doctor and follow the required medication like antibiotics,” Dr Subhashini says.

One must also watch out for fungal infections during this season. “They appear on the chest, back and groin in the form of white patches. Again keeping one hydrated can help people to counter these infections. One must also be careful about hygiene and ensure that these body parts are dry,” she says.

Some of the most common skin problems in summer are related to the blaring heat from the sun and the sweat it produces, says Dr. Deepika Lunawat, dermatologist at Fortis Malar. “Sunblocks with SPF between 30 and 50 are really useful during summers. They have to be applied 30 minutes before stepping out in the sun and reapplied every three hours. To avoid skin infections, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal soaps can be used,” she says.

FOR A HAPPY SKIN

Hydrate yourself with lots of water and seasonal fruits

Wear loose-fitting, cotton clothes

Shower twice a day

Cover often over exposed skin parts