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Summer Skin Conditions

July 9, 2021

With nice weather and sunny days, spending more time outside is a given during the summer months. More time spent outside means more exposure to the sun, however sunburn is not the only problem you might run into. Spending significantly more time outside, especially when it is hot, has the potential to cause several uncomfortable skin conditions.

Increased sunlight can cause a host of issues when it comes to acne. High temperatures lead to more sweat which, when mixed with bacteria and the natural oils produced by your skin, can lead to acne comedones (aka “clogged pores”). To prevent acne, it is important to have a good skincare regimen, which includes a topical retinoid.

Even in the summer humidity, dry skin can still be a problem for many people. Spending time in the sun, swimming pool, and air conditioning can lead to dry and irritated skin. Taking care to moisturize your skin, take cooler showers, and reach for gentle products can aid in relieving some of the discomfort. Often in the summer, it is a good idea to switch from a heavy moisturizer to a lighter hydrator that contains hyaluronic acid. If small changes do not result in improvement, schedule an appointment with your dermatologist.

Melasma is another condition that is aggravated by increased sun exposure. Melasma is a common skin condition that causes dark, discolored patches due to heat, hormones, and sun exposure. These patches most commonly appear on the central face. While this condition is not adverse to your health, there are both topical and laser/light-based treatments to lighten and prevent worsening of discoloration.

Finally, one of the most common skin conditions to affect people during the summer months is sunburn. Sunburn is caused by overexposure to the sun that damages the outer layers of skin. Sunburn not only increases your risk of developing melanoma and skin cancer, but also causes skin aging and the development of wrinkles. Taking care to regularly apply a broad spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) and avoid direct sun exposure especially during midday hours.