Summer Skin Conditions

Summer means good weather, a pleasant mood, vacations, and of course, increased temperatures, which bring more sun exposure, heat, humidity, sweating, and generally ideal conditions for the appearance of various unpleasant skin conditions.

First of all, chronic sun exposure without proper protection causes so-called PHOTOAGING, which, as the term indicates, means premature aging of the skin. The skin becomes rougher, develops pronounced wrinkles, and loses its firmness.

HYPERPIGMENTATION (Melasma, Chloasma) are those annoying spots that range in color from light brown to very dark, almost black. They occur more often in women and mainly on the face. In addition to sun exposure, hormonal factors, genetic predisposition, certain medications, and some cosmetic ingredients play a significant role in their development.

SUNBURN — unprotected exposure to strong sunlight, especially in fair-skinned individuals, can cause sunburn, initially appearing as redness and potentially progressing to more severe forms with blisters. It is important to know that sunburn, especially in young ages, is considered a predisposing factor for skin cancer in adulthood.

PHOTODERMATITIS — the combination of certain chemicals in cosmetics or the use of perfumes applied on sun-exposed skin followed by sun exposure can cause intense rashes with itching. Avoiding these products before sun exposure is essential, especially for sensitive individuals.

POLYMORPHOUS LIGHT ERUPTION usually appears at the beginning of summer, during the first sun exposures, and often recurs at the same time each year. It manifests with redness, papules, or even blisters on areas of skin previously protected from sunlight. The rash is itchy. As the skin gradually adapts to sun exposure during the summer, the condition improves. Sunscreen use and appropriate treatment help resolve the problem.

SUSPICIOUS MOLES (NEVI) — a significant factor in the malignant transformation or recurrence of a mole is cumulative and intense sun exposure. It is important to follow the ABCDE rule to identify suspicious lesions and consult a dermatologist:

• A (Asymmetry) — the lesion has an asymmetrical shape
• B (Border) — irregular or unclear borders
• C (Color) — more than one color
• D (Diameter) — larger than 5–6 mm
• E (Evolving) — rapid change or growth

Frequent self-examination with the help of a mirror is recommended to check difficult-to-see areas. Prevention saves lives.

ACTINIC KERATOSES appear on sun-exposed areas, mainly the head, face, neck, and hands, in middle-aged and older individuals. These reddish lesions with a central scale are considered precancerous and can progress to skin cancer (SCC) if neglected.

Other skin conditions favored by heat and humidity include FUNGAL INFECTIONS. The most common forms are:

1. Tinea versicolor — appears as scattered light-brown spots, mostly on the back, shoulders, and chest. This infection spreads in shared spaces such as gyms and requires attention on sand and sunbeds. Using a towel between the skin and surfaces is helpful.
2. Athlete’s foot — mainly occurs between the toes, with itching, redness, peeling, and sometimes cracking of the skin, often accompanied by odor. Prolonged use of closed or synthetic shoes increases moisture, creating ideal conditions for fungal growth.
3. Intertrigo — occurs in skin folds, such as between the genital area, underarms, and under the breasts (especially in women with larger breasts). Poor ventilation of these areas, particularly in hot and humid summer conditions, promotes the condition.

WARTS — a contagious condition caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus. Often included in summer skin conditions because many people walk barefoot on sand, shared surfaces, or around pools, which is a common source of infection. Warts can appear anywhere on the skin, commonly on hands, feet, and face. They initially appear as small skin-colored bumps and gradually enlarge, becoming raised. Plantar warts can cause significant pain when walking.

Finally, sun exposure can trigger flare-ups of HERPES SIMPLEX (cold sores), another viral condition.

Proper use of sunscreen, suitable clothing, prevention, and timely dermatological consultation for persistent or unusual skin lesions provide the most effective solutions.

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