The rainy season not just brings respite from the heat, but it also brings with it a host of skin problems like rashes and fungal infections.
After the scorching heat of the summer comes monsoon with the much-needed respite. But with the change of temperature and increase in humidity, the rainy season also rings allergies and skin-related issues.
Skin allergies are some of the most commonly encountered problems during this time. People who are prone to rhinitis i.e an allergic runny nose with frequent sneezing and/or food allergies are more commonly affected with similar itchy reactions developing on the skin during this season. The main reason for this is the increase in airborne pollen and dust in the air.
But what are some of the common allergic reactions during this time? Let’s find out
The best way to prevent the occurrence of eczema and protect the skin is to hydrate and moisturize it. A home remedy that works wonders is the liberal use of coconut oil and avoiding the use of hot water and harsh soaps while taking a shower.
2. Scabies
Scabies is an infection caused by a mite, that causes intense itching mainly at night. It is extremely common in children who contract it from their infected friends at school time or even in a kindergarten or crèche setup. As soon as one member of the family gets infected, it easily spreads to the other family members who may give a history of itching all over the body.
Scabies needs proper treatment with lotions containing permethrin and it’s recommended that you visit a dermatologist for the same. Additional measures that can be taken include washing all clothes and linen in hot water with the addition of antiseptic agents and getting the entire family treated at the same time.
3. Athlete’s foot
It is one of the most common infections in monsoon and occurs due to increased sweating or moisture retention due to the wetting of shoes and socks. Your feet may show powdery scaling and peeling of skin along with itching.
Home remedies to prevent athlete’s foot is to avoid closed footwear, make sure to wash and dry feet completely especially after coming home from outdoors (do not forget to dry the area in-between your toes) and using an antifungal powder to keep sweating under control.
4. Ringworm
It is a fungal infection affecting the body and resembles red rings which can cause itching. It is similar to athlete’s foot. It requires proper treatment with oral and topical antifungal medications and it is highly recommended that if you suspect that you are suffering from a ringworm infection, please DO NOT self-medicate.
Certain measures to be taken if you are suffering from this infection are washing your clothes separately in hot water and then ironing them inside-out; make sure you dry your skin completely after a shower especially the body folds as moisture can increase the infection; avoid touching or scratching the infected area; wear loose cotton clothes and avoid synthetic materials or denims; and make sure not to share your towels or bed sheets with other non-infected members of the family.
But this is one infection that should be immediately treated with the help of a proper dermatological therapy.
5. Rashes
Monsoons bring with it a lot of different rashes due to an increase of allergens in the hair as a result of increased humidity and decrease in temperature.
These rashes are common in people suffering from recurring allergies like rhinitis or sneezing episodes.
These tips will keep you safe from skin allergies during the rainy season:
1. Avoid keeping any potted plants indoors as these can be the cause of pollen allergy
2. Try and stay away from pets as the hair shedding can also be a trigger
3. Avoid keeping carpets at home as these are a breeding ground for dust and dust mites
4. Make sure your house is cleaned, vacuumed, and mopped on a daily basis to get rid of suspended dirt particles
5. Routinely use a moisturizer post-bath as it forms a protective layer over your sensitive skin and may reduce the occurrence of any skin rash
6. If you are in a dusty or polluted environment, please do wear a mask as well as full-sleeved clothing
7. If you are suffering from an episode of rashes, applying calamine lotion may soothe the skin, and taking oral antihistamines may relieve your itching temporarily.
However, for long term relief, please do consult a dermatologist.
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