We all look forward to the warm touch of the sun’s rays on our skin, especially after winter. However, basking in the sun and enjoying endless outdoor activities can make dry skin more sensitive to the effects of UV rays.
Dry skin (Xeroderma), also known as xeroderma, produces very little natural oil, leaving the skin feeling or looking:
- Sensitive to the touch, stinging, or raw
- Itchy, irritated, or painful
- Rough, cracked, or patchy
- Flaky and red
- Tight and rough
What Happens to the Skin in Hot Weather
As temperatures rise, the heat can become unbearable. Heat causes the skin to perspire, which may cause the skin to produce more oil, also known as sebum, to protect itself. As a result, pores can dilate, which may increase the appearance of pimples and acne for those with oily skin.
The sun’s heat may also affect the outer layer of the epidermis, known as the stratum corneum, which acts as the skin’s barrier. This barrier is made up of lipids and dead or dying skin cells and helps prevent harmful toxins from entering the body. If it becomes damaged by the sun’s rays, it can result in dry or irritated skin. This is why applying sunscreen is essential to help keep the skin hydrated, moisturized, and protected from the sun.
Dehydration
Warm weather increases water loss from the body and skin, which can lead to dehydration. This may cause skin irritation, sunburn, and cracked lips. Dehydration can be caused by sun exposure, air conditioning, diet, or repeatedly wiping the face. The skin also loses moisture from within, making it feel itchy, dry, wrinkled, and dull.
If you are dehydrated, you may feel lightheaded or confused, and your tongue and mouth may feel dry. One of the best ways to help prevent dehydration is to drink plenty of water to moisturize the skin from the inside out. Carry a bottle of water with you and sip from it regularly throughout the day. Fruits like watermelon and other skin-friendly juices can also help support hydration. Drinking water also helps eliminate toxins, unclog pores, and keep the skin soft and smooth. It is also helpful to minimize coffee and alcohol consumption.
Humectants can also help moisturize the skin by drawing moisture into the skin and helping maintain hydration. Avoid harsh soaps and facial scrubs, especially gritty ones, since they can further irritate the skin. Some products may help seal in moisture, support the skin barrier, and reduce damage from environmental factors.
Heat Rash
Sweat, dust, and heat can clog or block the sweat ducts, leading to heat rash. This traps perspiration beneath the skin, causing blisters or bumps that can irritate the skin. Heat rash can also become very itchy. The rash often develops in hot or humid weather. Once the skin cools down, the rash usually goes away, but severe forms of heat rash may require medical attention from a skincare expert to rule out other skin disorders.
If you sweat a lot, make sure to keep your skin clean by bathing regularly and keeping the skin dry. If your skin is irritated, applying something cool may help calm the area. Creams may also help soothe irritation.
Sunburn
Sunburn occurs when the skin is exposed to UV, or ultraviolet, rays that damage the skin. This can cause red patches, and your skin may feel warm to the touch. After a few days, the skin may flake or peel.
To help avoid sunburn, limit direct sun exposure whenever possible. Always wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on your face, arms, legs, and neck before leaving the house. Be sure to reapply sunscreen regularly, especially after sweating, swimming, or spending extended time outdoors.
It is also advisable to wear clothing that covers the skin as much as possible, such as wide-brimmed hats and long sleeves.
Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation can be caused by hot and humid weather or inflammatory skin conditions like acne or eczema. UV rays trigger the production of melanin pigment in the skin’s melanocyte cells. Heat can also affect the skin by causing blood vessels to dilate, which may trigger inflammation. This inflammation can cause melanocytes to produce more pigment, leading to hyperpigmentation.
To help prevent hyperpigmentation, keep the skin as cool as possible, protect your skin from the sun, and exfoliate regularly. Pay attention to your diet and consider using antioxidant-rich serums as part of your skincare routine. Topical creams may also help improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation. Severe cases may require laser or skin rejuvenation treatments.
Premature Aging
Spending too much time in the hot sun can disrupt the skin’s moisture barrier and reduce its elasticity. It can also lower antioxidant levels and increase protein activity that breaks down collagen. This may lead to early signs of aging, including fine lines and sagging skin. Skin rejuvenation treatments may help restore a more youthful appearance.
Buildup
Dry air can increase the buildup of dead skin cells. An accumulation of dead skin cells can block pores and prevent skincare products from penetrating the skin effectively, leaving it dry and flaky.
To help reduce buildup, remove dead skin cells and excess oil through non-invasive treatments or regular exfoliation. Both physical and chemical exfoliation can help loosen and remove dead cells and dry patches.
UV Ray Damage
UV rays can change the skin in several ways. The sun’s rays can darken the skin and make it appear freckled. Excessive UV exposure may also cause swelling, wrinkles, pigmentation, and premature aging.
To help prevent this, minimize the amount of time you spend outdoors during peak sun exposure. Always wear a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher during extended outdoor activity. This helps protect the skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays.
How to Take Care of Your Skin During Warm Weather
Maintain good hygiene because warm, humid weather can encourage bacteria to grow. Start by cleansing your skin to remove excess oil. Use an oil-removing cleanser to help control excess sebum. Avoid harsh soaps and cleansers, as they tend to dry out and irritate the skin.
Follow with a quality toner to help restore the skin’s pH and support its barrier against the sun’s hot rays. Use salicylic acid products when appropriate, and always wear a good-quality, broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher whenever you are outdoors. Moisturize your skin while it is still damp from the shower, and avoid hot showers or baths since they may dry your skin further.
Once a week, deeply exfoliate your skin to remove dead skin cells and other debris that may accumulate. This helps open clogged pores, reduce excess sebum, and brighten the skin. Choose non-comedogenic products, since they do not clog pores or cause breakouts. Avoid wearing makeup in humid climates; if you do wear makeup, avoid thick or greasy formulas.
If your skin has been severely damaged by the sun, seek medical treatment as soon as possible. For more information, please contact The Medspa @50th.