Atopic dermatitis is a chronic, inflammatory skin disease characterized by dry skin, itching, rashes, and impaired skin barrier function. The disease can occur in both children and adults, and is especially likely to worsen with changing seasons and climatic conditions. The high temperatures and humidity of summer are often a serious challenge for patients with atopic dermatitis. Hot weather makes the patient's skin more susceptible to irritation and also adds to the complexity of skin problems.
The effect of the summer climate on the skin
High temperatures and humidity are two of the distinguishing features of summer. High temperatures tend to make the skin sweat, and sweat itself is one of the sources of skin irritation. Salts and other metabolites contained in sweat can irritate the skin, causing symptoms such as redness, swelling, and itching. In addition, increased humidity can make the skin more moisturized, and the skin in this environment tends to become too soft, further disrupting the skin barrier and making it more susceptible to external stimuli.
In summer, the intensity of ultraviolet rays also increases significantly. Prolonged sun exposure not only makes the skin dry and peeling, but can also trigger an inflammatory response in the skin, which puts an extra burden on the skin of people with atopic dermatitis. In particular, chloride in swimming pools can also trigger skin irritation, and these chemicals can further irritate sensitive skin.
Summer characteristics of atopic dermatitis
The aggravation of symptoms of atopic dermatitis in summer is mainly reflected in the following aspects:
Increased itching: Itchy sensation on the skin tends to intensify due to increased sweat and humidity. Itching is one of the main symptoms of atopic dermatitis, and the summer heat and humidity make the skin more dry and sensitive, triggering a stronger itching sensation.
Increased risk of skin infections: When humidity is high, the skin is prone to cracks, which facilitates the invasion of bacteria and fungi. Summer is also the season of high incidence of various skin infections, and the skin of people with atopic dermatitis is already fragile and more susceptible to infection.
Impaired skin barrier function: High temperatures and humidity can affect the skin's natural barrier, making it less defense-resistant. Damage to the skin barrier can make it easier for external allergens to penetrate into the skin, triggering allergic reactions and inflammation.
Increased exposure to allergens: The concentration of allergens in the air increases due to the increase in plant pollen in summer, which creates an additional burden on the skin of people with atopic dermatitis.
Prevention and management strategies
Keeps skin clean and moisturized: Creates a comfortable skin barrier
For patients with atopic dermatitis, one of the most critical care strategies during the summer months is to ensure that the skin remains properly clean and moisturized. Due to the increased heat and humidity, the skin is more prone to sweating and drying, which makes the skin barrier vulnerable to damage. Choosing the right cleaning product is crucial. It is recommended to use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers that effectively remove sweat and dirt while avoiding further irritation to the skin. When using cleansing products, it is advisable to wash with warm water, as hot water will remove the skin's natural oils, exacerbating dryness and irritation.
The use of moisturizers should not be neglected either. In summer, choose lightweight, easily absorbable moisturizers, such as those containing hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which effectively lock in moisture from the skin without being greasy. Apply a moisturizer at least twice a day, especially immediately after bathing or swimming, to help lock in moisture and repair the skin barrier. Avoid moisturizing products that contain alcohol or fragrances, which may cause skin irritation or irritation.
Clothing and environmental conditioning: providing a suitable "breeding ground" for the skin
Choosing the right clothing is an important part of managing atopic dermatitis in the summer. It is advisable to wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing, preferably natural fibres such as cotton, which can reduce friction on the skin and help absorb sweat. Avoid wearing tight-fitting, synthetic clothing, as these materials may increase sweat buildup and skin irritation.
In addition, proper environmental regulation is also essential to reduce skin problems. In your home or office environment, keep the room well ventilated and use air-conditioning equipment to maintain the right temperature and humidity. Using an air purifier and dehumidifier can help reduce dust and moisture in the air, which can negatively affect the skin. Try to avoid prolonged exposure to strong sunlight, use sunscreen when you're outside, and choose sunscreen products with a high SPF value to protect your skin from UV rays.
Dietary regulation: skin care from the inside out
Diet also plays a crucial role in the management of atopic dermatitis. Avoid foods that can trigger allergic reactions, such as seafood, nuts, or certain dairy products. Each person's allergens may be different, and it is advisable to record and monitor your own dietary reactions to find possible allergic foods and avoid them.
Increasing foods rich in anti-inflammatory effects can help reduce skin inflammation. Foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, such as deep-sea fish (e.g., salmon, sardines), flaxseeds, and walnuts, are recommended and can help reduce inflammation levels in the body. At the same time, increase your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially foods rich in vitamins C and E, which have a positive effect on skin repair and antioxidants.
Routine care details
Bathing precautions: Avoid overstimulation
Bathing is an important part of your skin care routine. The high summer heat increases the frequency of bathing, but the excessively hot water temperature may exacerbate dry skin. It is recommended to use warm water for bathing, and the water temperature should be controlled below 37°C to avoid overstimulation of the skin. Choosing fragrance-free, non-irritating bath products, such as mild liquid soaps or body washes, can reduce potential irritation to the skin.
After bathing, try to pat your body dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing vigorously to avoid rubbing against your skin. Apply a moisturizer immediately afterwards to help lock in moisture and restore the skin's natural barrier function. For areas with particularly dry skin, a heavy moisturizer can be opted for topical treatment.
Sweat Management: Keeps skin refreshed
Increased sweating is common in the summer, and skin irritation from sweat may worsen dermatitis symptoms. Keeping your skin dry can be an effective way to alleviate these problems. It is advisable to use sweat-absorbent clothing and change soaked clothing in a timely manner. Additionally, skincare products that contain antimicrobial ingredients can be used that can help reduce skin discomfort caused by sweat.
For sweaty skin, you can use mild wet wipes or water to quickly clean it off to avoid sweat staying on the skin for a long time. For areas that are particularly prone to sweating, such as the underarms and back, specially designed sweat-absorbing pads or anti-sweat products can be used to reduce sweat irritation to the skin.
Dealing with sudden symptoms: Deal with skin discomfort in stride
Even with all precautions, occasional skin discomfort may occur. Small areas of rash can be treated topically with topical creams containing low-dose steroids, which can be effective in reducing inflammation and itching. For more severe symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly, and the doctor may adjust the treatment regimen or prescribe appropriate medications depending on the specific situation.
Together, by combining these strategies, patients with atopic dermatitis can effectively reduce skin discomfort in the summer and maintain healthy and comfortable skin.