DOC TALK : A rash solution

Vaishalee Kirane
Laser Surgeon, Trichologist, Dermatologist

The long hot summer months are here. Your skin which looked radiant during winter is now dull, blemished and oily. Also, one tends to develop different skin rashes and infections due to perspiration and heat. The best solution is to follow a regular skin regimen and diet to counter the harmful effects of the sun.
The first and most essential mantra for your skin during summer is: Moisturising. But what moisturiser should you choose? What is the frequency and amount to be applied? And what are the measures to keep rashes at bay? Read on for answers...

Cream allergy
Moisturizers usually do not have an adverse effect on the skin. It is always advisable to test the cream on a small patch behind the ear or on your elbow to rule out any skin reaction.
That is because during winter, the skin's natural oils solidify, but during summer the oil flows freely. The excessive oil may result in skin eruptions. The skin becomes dry, red and itchy. Hence most people need lighter moisturizers. Although oil free or water-based moisturizers are preferred during the hot summer months, it is important to know your skin's needs. A person may also get acne or rashes due to hormonal imbalance and other internal factors. Usually we recommend rose water to be used in the affected area, as it has a cooling effect. The next step is to find out the main cause of the acne and consult a doctor for the right medicines as opposed to self-medication.

Dryness, skin burn and sun tan
The other nagging problems which occur during these months are extreme dryness of the skin, skin burns and tans. Too much exposure to the sun may lead to dryness, irritation, redness. Eventually, the skin starts peeling. During the day, one should protect one's skin, even if one is indoors. Use a sunscreen to avoid excessive tanning and dryness. Normally, a sunscreen of SPF 30 works well with Indian skin. Sunblocks with titanium oxide, zinc oxide and avo benzone protect the skin from the UV rays of the sun. Also, it is always advisable to carry an aloe vera cream as it helps to combat dryness.

Heat boils and skin eruptions
Heat boils and fungal eruptions are a common ailment during this hot and humid season. One should use an anti-fungal powder which will be easily available at your nearest chemist store. Drinking plenty of water, juices and keeping yourself clean helps control the infection to a certain extent. Moreover, wearing loose, cotton clothes are a good option during this period.

Jewellery allergy
Most of us wear watches, hair clips, bracelets, rings and so on. But at times, after using these accessories, you may experience a furious itch, followed by a burning sensation and redness. This happens because you are allergic to a particular metal, and the heat and sweat aggravates the affected area. You should immediately remove the accessory and avoid contact with metal for a couple of weeks till the rash subsides. Avoid nickel-rich food like chocolates, beans, peas for a certain period, or till you are fine.
Above all, be kind to yourself, if your skin breaks out. Don't take matters in your own hands. Consult a dermatologist immediately.

- As told to Barnalee Handique