Clean & clear

Dr Sukhdeep Kaur

Monsoon brings in much-needed relief from the scorching heat. We all love the good things that monsoon brings, be it the cloudy weather, the cool breeze, the rain drops or a hot cup of tea. But don’t forget the various skin infections, which flare up during this hot and humid weather.

Bettle Dermatitis: It is a specific form of acute irritant contact dermatitis caused by a vesicant chemical present in the body fluid of the beetle. The beetle does not bite or sting, but accidental brushing against or crushing over the skin provokes the release of its coelomic fluid, which is a potent vesicant. The disease is characterised by a sudden onset of redness, swelling and blisters on the exposed body parts and is associated with burning, stinging and itching. The dermatitis is most commonly seen in regions with warm and humid climate. Proper diagnosis of the disease and treatment from a dermatologist is required.

Papular Urticaria: This is insect bite induced hypersensitive reaction. It results in red coloured itchy papules all over the body. The advice is to wear covered clothing, use mosquito repellents and avoid moving out in places that have wild grass growth.

Acne & oily skin: This is bothersome for teenagers and the outburst increases in hot and humid climate. Proper treatment from a dermatologist is essential as acne can turn infectious and if untreated, leave marks and scars. The best preventive measure is to wash your face with soap and water twice a day, and take proper anti-acne medicines. Don’t apply oily creams over the face.

Folliculitis: This is caused by bacterial infection of the hair follicle and it results in pus forming lesions with lot of pain and swelling. A proper antibiotic from a dermatologist is required. Good personal hygiene is essential to prevent recurrence.

Fungal infections: These are most prevalent during hot and humid weather. Use of antifungal dusting powders daily in between the folds like underarms, between the thighs et al helps in controlling fungal infections. Dry the body thoroughly after bath and wear cotton clothes. Don’t wear wet clothes and wet shoes. Clean the feet nicely in between the toe spaces with towel and sprinkle anti fungal powder to prevent fungal growth. Avoid tight clothes, undergarments and closed footwear. In case of fungal infections consult a dermatologist.

Prickly heat rash: It is also called Miliaria and is a rash that can develop after a person sweats far more than usual. In this case, the glands become blocked. Babies and children can also get prickly heat rash during hot or humid weather because their sweat glands are not fully developed.

Prickly heat causes an itchy rash of small red raised red spots with a prickling or stinging sensation. Avoid excessive heat and humidity and cool off with a fan, take a cool shower or bath and let your skin air dry, or if you have air-conditioning, use this to cool yourself. Once the skin is cool and dry again, don’t use any type of oil-based product, which might block your sweat glands. Calamine lotion can relieve itching and irritation.

(Dr Sukhdeep is a Chandigarh¬-based dermatologist)