After a long, cold winter, Britain has finally touched down in the first of the summer months. But while the warmer temperatures have sent the ice and snow packing, the sun is yet to make a prolonged appearance.
However, UK shops are not letting anything stand in their way and have strategically shifted their supplies of sunscreen, razors and tinted moisturisers to the front of the store in an attempt to remind us to look after our skin in the summer months. The importance of good skin care in the warmer weather is a hot topic – but what are the most common ailments of the season and how can they be treated?
Heat Rash
We Brits aren’t used to warm weather so when it does make a shock appearance our bodies like to kick up a bit of a fuss. A common symptom of our body’s bewilderment is heat rash, which is caused by clogged sweat ducts trapping perspiration under the skin.
by DarlingSnail
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The resulting itchy bumps and blisters usually go away on their own but wearing breathable fabrics and avoiding heavy creams can help sweat to evaporate, keep pores clear and skin rash-free.
Sunburn
We’re all familiar with the consequences of too much sunbathing. Bad sunburn usually looks as painful as it is and even the simplest actions such as sitting down can leave sufferers in excruciating pain.
The damage isn’t just skin deep though. Excessive UV exposure can cause long-term damage to the skin and wearing high factor sunscreen is the best way to stay protected. Keeping out of the sun between 11am and 3pm can help to keep skin damage to a minimum.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is a particularly nasty condition where the sufferer develops an itchy red rash between their toes – and accompanying this is scaly, flaky skin in the affected area. Athletes foot is caused when harmless fungi which live naturally on the skin multiply in warm and humid places, such as the gym or swimming pool changing rooms.
With summer heat come excess sweating and body moisture, creating the ideal condition for these fungi to thrive. The condition can be treated easily with antifungal medicine available from pharmacies without prescription.
Dry Skin
Hot weather can leave skin looking and feeling dry and cracked – something which is not only unsightly but also uncomfortable and potentially painful. Combat dehydration caused by sweating by drinking plenty of water and keep your skin hydrated with a good moisturiser. For cracked lips, try using a good quality lip balm and consider investing in one with UV protection to protect it from the sun too.
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