6 Common Summer Skin Rashes

While summer is the perfect time for you and your family to sit back and relax on vacation, it is also prime season for skin rashes. Since summer is ideal for outdoor activities, you expose yourself to sunlight, insects, heat and other factors that can negatively impact the condition of your skin. You may find rashes on your body due to skin allergies, dermatitis and other potentially serious conditions.

If you notice a new or uncomfortable rash or skin irritation, it is very important that you see your dermatologist immediately. Here are some common skin rashes that you should be on the look out for this summer.

1. Poison-Ivy Rash

A rash caused by poison ivy, oak and sumac are amongst the most common summer skin rashes. The urushiol present in these plants causes the rash. Exposure to the oil can result in an extremely itchy rash, commonly located on areas of the body that are not covered by clothing. In severe cases, blisters can also occur.

2. Heat Rash

This type of rash is often present on children after a long day of playing in the hot sun. A heat rash often occurs when the skin’s sweat glands become blocked and the sweat cannot reach the surface of the skin to evaporate.

This causes tiny red spots to appear on the skin, and you may feel a prickling sensation. These spots are caused by inflammation and will usually fade when the skin is allowed to cool. However, medical treatment may be necessary if the rash become infected.

3. Insect Bites

Mosquitoes and other insects run rampant during the summer season. While insect bites and stings can be annoying and painful, they are only temporary and a natural reaction. However, you should watch out for signs that you are allergic to the insect bite. Symptoms to look out for include: an itchy throat, swelling in the area after a bite, and an increased heart rate.

If you believe that you are showing symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek emergency treatment as soon as possible.

4. Skin Allergies

If you spend your summer outdoors at camp or even maintaining your garden, you expose yourself to many common allergens such as pollen, grasses, molds and other plants. Due to exposure, hives can appear and eczema may worsen in extreme situations.

5. Tinea Versicolor

Also called Pityriasis Versicolor, this rash is caused by an increase in yeast on your skin. When the yeast begins to grow out of control, a rash appears in the form of dark or red spots on the back and chest. Tinea Versicolor is more noticeable in warmer months when people are outside getting tan.

This rash can be a result of the hot climate during summer, oily skin, or even a weak immune system. It is important to remember that tinea versicolor is not contagious because yeast grows naturally on your skin. While this condition can affect anyone, it is more prominent in teens and young adults.

6. Intertrigo

Intertrigo is a rash that usually appears between the folds of the skin such as in the armpits, beneath the breasts, and in the genital area. While this skin rash is very common, it often appears during the summer due to high levels of humidity.

Conclusions

If you want to stay happy and healthy this summer, you consistently check your skin for any abnormal irritations. There are many excellent treatments if you experience any of these skin conditions this summer. Common methods include wearing proper sunscreen, using a safe bug spray or even taking a break from the sun by staying indoors. If you notice any skin rashes on yourself or on family members, be sure to contact your dermatologist immediately.