Global average temperatures have risen in 2024, surpassing the previous 12 months's record. Extreme heat poses quite a few health risks, a few of that are visible on our skin. Understanding how heat affects your skin can aid you take steps to stop or reduce heat rash, eczema, rosacea, melasma pigmentation, and lots of other skin conditions which might be more vulnerable to flare-ups. are produced or destroyed by heat.
How does heat affect your skin?
Hot flashes can trigger or worsen many skin conditions.
- Heat rash (Malaria) is attributable to blockage of the sweat ducts on the skin, that are accountable for helping the body maintain a standard temperature by releasing water to the surface of the skin. As these sweat glands change into clogged with excessive sweating on a very popular day, they don’t function properly and red itchy patches form.
- Grover's disease, Small, red, itchy spots on the chest and back can be triggered or worsened by overheating and sweating. Often it clears up inside a couple of weeks or months. Symptoms can persist for years, with less frequent flare-ups in the summertime months.
- Eczema is a chronic skin condition characterised by dry, itchy plaques that affects tens of millions of individuals within the United States. Sweating During heat waves may cause irritation and inflammation of the skin, exacerbating the symptoms of eczema. Dehydration as a result of fluid loss through sweat could make the skin more at risk of eczema flare-ups.
- Russia, It can be sensitive to heat, which causes facial redness, blood vessels and acne-like breakouts. Heat causes blood vessels to dilate because the body tries to chill itself down, leading to redness and swelling. High temperatures, especially combined with sun exposure, may cause flare-ups.
- Melasma. Hyperpigmentation disorders corresponding to melasma are also worsened by heat. Melasma is characterised by irregular dark spots on the face and is commonly triggered by UV exposure from the sun. Heat can increase the activity of melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment, making these patches more visible. Additionally, the combined effects of warmth and UV rays speed up the degradation of collagen and elastin, causing the skin to lose its elasticity.
- Risk of skin cancer Increases with increasing exposure to UV radiation. Heat waves – now starting earlier, ending later, and lasting longer – contribute to UV exposure, especially amongst individuals who work outdoors. And preliminary research suggests. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures May increase the danger of skin cancer. This might be of particular concern to firefighters, who’re exposed to extreme heat.
Heat waves, air pollution and skin
During heat waves, levels of Environmental pollution As ozone and particulate matter may increase. And a response occurs between these pollutants, heat, and UV radiation. Secondary pollution corresponding to peroxyacetyl nitrates (PANs). Such pollution can irritate the skin and contribute to inflammation through oxidative stress and DNA damage, so inflammatory conditions like eczema and rosacea can worsen.
Does heat affect medications?
High temperatures affect the effectiveness of certain medications. For example, EpiPens, that are critical for managing life-threatening allergic reactions, can lose their potency when exposed to high temperatures. Check the directions on all of your medicines to see which medicines needs to be stored in a cool, dry place or within the fridge. If you usually are not sure which medicines could also be affected by heat, consult with your pharmacist or doctor.
Retinoids in skincare products, antibiotics taken for pimples, and immunomodulators for autoimmune diseases could make the skin more at risk of sun damage. This may cause severe sunburns or rashes called photodermatoses. If you experience this, contact your healthcare team for advice.
Protect your skin when the temperature rises.
Keep skin cool
- Wear light, breathable clothing. Choose natural fibers like cotton and linen to manage body temperature and forestall skin problems as a result of sweat. Avoid synthetic fabrics, which might trap heat and moisture.
- Take a cool bath or shower. Use cold or warm water for bathing. Avoid hot showers, which might strip the skin of natural oils, resulting in dryness and irritation.
- Find cool places. If your private home isn't air-conditioned, find cool spots and ways to chill off during heat waves.
Keep skin hydrated
- Drink and eat loads of water. Foods wealthy in water. Foods like watermelon and cucumber can provide extra hydration.
- Moisturize your skin. Apply a light-weight, non-comedogenic moisturizer immediately after showering. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, that are useful for reinforcing skin hydration.
Limit exposure to sun and pollution.
- Use protective clothing. Wear wide-brimmed hats, UV-blocking sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts to guard skin from harmful radiation.
- Wear sunscreen. Apply broad-spectrum mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or iron oxide to guard against UV rays and pollutants.
- Use topical antioxidants. Use products like vitamin C in your morning skincare routine to scale back oxidative stress.
- wash off Cleansing your face and body at the top of the day may help limit your exposure to skin pollutants while also washing away sunscreen residue.