Summer is in full swing, and for most of us that means plenty of sun with accompanying doses of saltwater and chlorine. It can also mean more topical allergies from plants and insects, including some new species you may encounter outdoors or on vacation. Unless you suffer from a chronic skin condition, it can be easy to take your skin for granted – until a problem surfaces. Here is a brief overview of some common seasonal skin conditions and causes, as well as some precautions to take as we spend more time outdoors.

Sunburn

Sun precautions bear repeating: Use a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or more; cover your skin (including your head); stay in the shade as much as possible; and remember that many windows, at home and in vehicles, still allow UVA rays in that can damage your skin. If you do end up with a sunburn, the American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends taking cool baths or showers, followed immediately with an application of a moisturizer containing aloe vera or soy. Drink more water than usual and take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen for pain. You can also apply hydrocortisone cream to areas that are especially painful. If you develop blisters, leave them be so they can heal and keep you protected from infection.

Contact dermatitis

We all know the hazards of poison ivy and poison oak, but many other common plants are known to be frequent culprits of “contact dermatitis” – rash and itchy skin – in many people. Common garden and yard plants that can be problematic include:

• Strawberries
• Tomatoes
• Garlic
• Comfrey
• Hot peppers
• Tulips, daffodils and hyacinth bulbs
• Borage
• Rosehips

Also, if you get citrus juice on your skin, be sure you clean it off before you go outside, as those fruits contain light-sensitizing chemicals that can create a rash when exposed to sunlight.

Insects

Mosquitos may be synonymous with summer, but there are many other insects that can create skin irritations or cause serious allergic reactions (if you do have a history of severe reactions be sure to wear your medical ID if you are away from home and have an epinephrine autoinjector handy for you or a family member). For most of us, however, common sense measures, in addition to insect repellant, can help mitigate skin reactions:

• Wear clean light-colored clothing, covering as much of yourself as possible.
• Shower or bathe daily.
• Keep your yard or work area clean and free of food and standing water.
• Use caution around flowering plants that attract insects.
• Don’t swat at nearby flying insects.
• Get indoors if possible or get away quickly if you are attacked by a swarm.
• Don’t disturb mounds of dirt that could contain fire ants.
• If you are bitten by fire ants, remove them quickly. Within a day or two, the bites should fill with fluid.

Remember, just as with selecting any lotion or moisturizer, you can now find a sunscreen that works best with your skin type to keep it healthy year-round for normal, dry, oily, combination, and even sensitive skin. You can also find sunscreens specifically designed for your face. Those concerned about sunscreen chemicals will also find expanded choices.

For those who still like their skin to have a summer golden glow, you can find several non-toxic self-tanners available.

Finally, be sure to seek medical attention for any prolonged, persistent or severe skin condition, or a mole that appears to have changed. For even greater convenience you can use your Transocean telemedicine or Nurseline benefits for an easy consultation—both of which are described in more detail on the My Journey page.

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