The Philippines is teeming with beaches and is also known as a summer lover's paradise. Most people go to the beach to unwind, swim, catch up with friends, etc., and of course, achieving that much-desired sun-kissed glow is a must.
However, sun-kissed glow is not always beneficial to the health according to Dr. Ma. Margarita Isabel Carlos-Tanchiong, MakatiMed. "That tan on your skin is a sunburn. It may look nice, but it also damages your skin. The intense heat and humidity can also lead to frustrating skin issues like acne and fungal inspections."
MakatiMed's Dr. Tanchiong cites common sun-related skin conditions and what to do about them.
SUNBURN. Too much sun exposure doesn't just tan your skin; it can cause it to flake and peel or develop painful blisters. "If this happens, get out of the sun immediately and stay in a cool room, or bathe in cool water. Gently apply aloe vera or a ceramide-containing lotion or moisturizer, and do not pop the blister. Take a pain reliever to ease the sting of the burn. You may also need topical and oral medications to treat the sunburn."
Next time you go out into the sun, prepare by slathering a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. "Re-apply to your face and exposed skin every two hours, especially if you've been swimming or sweating. Don't forget to include your ears and the back of your neck. Wearing sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and choosing clothing made with Ultraviolet Protection are helpful tips to keep your skin protected from further ultraviolet damage. It is also best to stay out of the sun between 10am and 4pm. That's when the UV rays are strongest, causing the most skin damage."
ACNE. The heat and humidity of the Philippine summers make us sweat more than usual. This causes an overproduction of sebum (oil) on the face, which clogs our skin's pores. The result? Unsightly pimples. "Wash your face regularly with a soap-free cleanser or one that contains salicylic acid to help unclog pores. Use a sunscreen that is non-comedogenic- meaning it doesn't cause blackheads or whiteheads- and choose gel-based and oil-free moisturizers over their creamy counterparts during the hot summer months. If the pimples are on your back or neck, wear loose, cotton clothing to stay cool."
FUNGAL INFECTION. Fungus thrives in heat and humidity, so do not be surprised if you find yourself scratching an unbearable itch from red or discolored rashes. "Athlete's foot develops between your toes. The rash usually presents as scaly, red patches with accompanying itch. Ringworm gets its name from its appearance as a circular rash with raised edges that spread outward. Jock itch's rashes are found in warm, sweaty parts of the body like the groin, inner thighs, our buttocks. Areas of the body where skin folds and moisture tend to form, like under the breasts or in between layers in the tummy, are where yeast infections usually start. You'll note the appearance of red scaly patches with satellite bumps that are usually itchy."
As a parting note, Dr. Tanchiong shares that OTC prescription anti-fungal creams are best at addressing these conditions, and it is also worthwhile to consult a doctor to identify properly the skin condition. "To prevent infections from developing or worsening, keep those areas in your body clean and dry, wash your towels and clothing regularly, and resist the urge to scratch, or you may spread the infection."
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