TAKING CARE OF YOUR SKIN IN SUMMER – A Quick Guide
Out in the sun
Everybody wants to lie drowsily in the sun and let the summer rays turn the skin to a healthy and sexy looking dark brown. However, there are some health-related issues you should be aware of before spreading that beach towel. Sun exposure causes skin cancer, the most common type of cancer reported among the residents of the United Kingdom and USA. US authorities report that one in every three new cancer cases is skin cancer.
The sun sends out ultraviolet radiation, most of which is stopped from reaching the Earth’s surface by the ozone layer. The UV radiation that makes it past the ozone layer is strong enough to alter the DNA of skin cells and trigger, in time, the formation of carcinomas and melanomas. UV radiation is also responsible for sunburns and skin ageing.
SUMMER SKIN RASHES
Everybody loves to stay out under the warm and pleasant rays of the summer sun and in the midst of nature, but this is not always wise. Too much exposure to sun rays and nature may cause skin rashes. Although many people believe that rashes are simply allergic reactions, this is simply not true.
The most common type of summer skin rash is the Sun Rash. Small reddish blisters appear on those parts of the skin that have been exposed to the sun for too long. This type of rash is mostly confined to people whose skins are very sensitive and cannot stand harsh sunlight for long.
The second most common type is Miliaria, or Prickly Heat. This type of rash is caused by exposure to high heat and humidity which obstruct the ducts of sweat glands located in the skin and triggers the eruption of small, red papules, accompanied by a prickling sensation.
Rashes may also be caused by chemical agents, such as the substances contained by cosmetics or drugs. Photoallergic Dermatitis is a type of rash caused by the reaction of chemicals found in makeup, perfumes, soaps or suntan lotions to prolonged sun exposure. Drug-Induced Photosensitivity is the scientific term for rashes experienced by people who take blood pressure medicine, certain antibiotics and anti-acne products, Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, birth control pills and antihistamines.
Ever heard of the Poison Oak? I bet you have. This means you know that some plants can cause rashes and other skin problems. You would do well to stay away from Poison Sumac, Daffodils, Hyacinths, Primrose, Ivy, Stinging Nettles and Pencil Trees.
The best way to treat rashes is leave them alone. Once you are no longer exposed to the sun or to the toxic substances of plants, the rash will go away on its own. Above all, avoid scratching. Mild rashes go away in a couple of hours, but scratching is almost guaranteed to trigger an infection. If the rash is accompanied by fever or by unbearable itching, pay a visit to your doctor at once.
Basic Knowledge to Care for Your Skin
Your skin is one of the most essential body organs and it needs proper care and attention. It is also the body organ that becomes most affected by extreme sun rays.
The sun has ultraviolet rays that can cause various skin problems, such as skin cancer. However, this can be prevented by obtaining basic knowledge regarding proper care of your skin. The sun’s rays are fiercer from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., within which period, it is better if you stay inside your home or under a shade even if it is cloudy. You must remember that you are more likely to get sunburned near beaches.
The sun’s rays affect everybody; it does not matter if you are young or old. However, children are more at risk since they like playing outside when the sun’s rays are at its most intense. The most effective way to prevent sunburn is to dress your children with dark-colored clothes that cover as many parts of their bodies as possible. You must also apply sunscreen on their skins.
