Summertime symbolizes beaches, tiki torches, mosquitos, and late-night fun. However, for the many individuals who have skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, it means another season that brings, in some cases, a rollercoaster of symptoms that can flare-up more often than not. Skincare is essential all year, but with a little know-how, you can help keep the lid on summer skin issues.
Eczema and Psoriasis Summertime Care
Let’s look at two of the most common skin conditions and what you can do to manage during these summer months.
Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
Managing eczema during any time of the year can be a challenge due to it flaring up in extreme heat and cold fluctuations. Staying moisturized is vital in maintaining the much-needed protective barrier with eczema. Some of The National Eczema Foundation recommendations for managing the skin condition in the summer include:
- Hydrate from the inside out by drinking plenty of water.
- Swim! Chlorine helps eczema tremendously, but rinse and moisturize immediately after.
- Wear loose-fitting, light clothing.
- Carry a cooler bag with a bottle of cold water and a washcloth to wipe the sweat off right away.
- Keep gels and lotions in the fridge to keep them cool.
Psoriasis
Summer humidity and sunshine help soothe psoriasis symptoms, while the potential dry out from chlorine and the constant AC running can trigger a flare-up. Some recommendations to keep your psoriasis better managed during this time are:
- Protect your skin from sunburn. Approximately 50% of people with psoriasis experience Koebner phenomenon where psoriasis forms at the site of skin injury, like sunburn. Alternatively, protected and limited sun exposure is beneficial.
- Rinse off after swimming and moisturize within three minutes of any shower. Reapply moisturizer during the day to prevent skin from drying out.
- Saltwater can soothe psoriasis, so take that dip in the ocean!
Other Summer Skin Issues
Even without the diagnosis of a skin condition, other summer skin issues such as acne, folliculitis, heat rashes, and sun allergies can wreak havoc on summer fun. Changing out of tight, wet clothes, wearing loose-fitting clothing, and paying attention to specific plants and infested ocean waters can help you to avoid most of these. Learn more about preventing common summer skin issues on the AAD website. Also, remember to bring anything concerning to your dermatologist immediately.
Clinical Research is Improving Options for Skin Conditions
Chronic skin condition symptoms often persist despite the strictest routines and lifestyle changes. In many cases, working with a dermatologist and following their recommended treatment plan is the next step. However, there are still individuals that remain unable to benefit from the many options that exist. Clinical research studies are helping to ensure everyone has access to safe, effective skin management choices.
Volunteers participating in research studies make these opportunities possible. Qualified participants have the opportunity to gain access to potential new options not currently available and learn more about their skin condition along the way. ActivMed is currently looking for participants to enroll in a variety of dermatological studies. To explore now enrolling opportunities, click the link for our Portsmouth, NH location, or Beverly, MA location.
References:
https://nationaleczema.org/summer-tips/
https://www.everydayhealth.com/psoriasis/living-with/ways-to-soothe-psoriasis-summer
https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/routine/prevent-summer-skin-problems