Summer in India brings its own set of dermatological challenges. As the temperature soars and humidity levels fluctuate, our skin faces unique stressors that can trigger various conditions. Hi, I’m Dr. Shruti Patil, your board-certified dermatologist and cosmetologist, and today we’re diving deep into the most common summer skin conditions I encounter in my practice.
From heat rash to melasma, these conditions affect millions of Indians every summer. Understanding their causes, symptoms, and effective treatments can help you maintain healthy, comfortable skin throughout the challenging summer months.
1. Heat Rash (Prickly Heat/घमौरिया): The Universal Summer Problem
“The first one is heat rash”
Heat rash, locally known as ghamauriya, represents one of the most prevalent summer skin conditions across all age groups. This condition occurs when sweat ducts become blocked, trapping perspiration beneath the skin surface and creating those characteristic tiny, itchy bumps.
Why Heat Rash Develops
The mechanism behind heat rash is straightforward yet problematic. When excessive sweating combines with high environmental humidity, several factors converge:
- Sweat duct obstruction: Dead skin cells, bacteria, and sebum can plug the narrow sweat ducts
- Increased sweat production: Hot weather triggers our body’s cooling mechanism, producing more sweat than ducts can handle
- Poor evaporation: High humidity prevents efficient sweat evaporation, creating a backup in the duct system
- Clothing friction: Tight or synthetic fabrics can worsen blockages through mechanical irritation
Treatment and Management
Effective heat rash management focuses on prevention and symptomatic relief:
Immediate relief measures:
- Apply calamine lotion for its cooling and drying properties
- Use pure aloe vera gel to soothe inflammation and provide cooling sensation
- Take cool baths with colloidal oatmeal or baking soda
- Avoid scratching to prevent secondary bacterial infections
Preventive strategies:
- Choose loose-fitting, breathable cotton clothing
- Stay in air-conditioned or well-ventilated environments when possible
- Use talcum powder in areas prone to sweating (armpits, groin, under breasts)
- Change clothes immediately after sweating
For persistent or severe cases, topical corticosteroids may be necessary under dermatological supervision.
2. Polymorphic Light Eruption: When Sun Becomes the Enemy
“Second is polymorpic light eruption”
Polymorphic light eruption (PLE) affects approximately 10-15% of the Indian population, presenting as red, itchy bumps or patches on sun-exposed skin areas. Unlike simple sunburn, PLE represents an immune-mediated reaction to UV radiation.
Understanding PLE
This condition typically appears on:
- Arms and hands
- Neck and décolletage
- Face (especially cheeks and nose)
- Upper back and shoulders
The eruption usually develops 6-24 hours after sun exposure and can persist for several days to weeks. Interestingly, PLE often improves as the summer progresses—a phenomenon called “hardening” as the skin gradually adapts to increased UV exposure.
Management Strategies
Effective PLE management requires a multi-pronged approach:
Sun protection measures:
- Wear full-sleeve clothing made from tightly woven fabrics
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
- Seek shade during peak UV hours (10 AM – 4 PM)
- Consider UV-protective clothing for outdoor activities
Treatment options:
- Topical corticosteroids for acute flares
- Antihistamines to reduce itching
- Gradual UV exposure therapy (photohardening) under medical supervision
- In severe cases, systemic corticosteroids or antimalarials may be prescribed
For comprehensive sun protection strategies, check out our detailed guide on surviving Delhi’s heat and pollution.
3. Fungal Infections: The Hidden Summer Threat
“Next is FUngal infection”
Summer’s combination of increased sweating and humidity creates an ideal breeding ground for various fungal infections. These conditions thrive in warm, moist environments exactly what our skin provides during hot, humid weather.
Common Summer Fungal Infections
Tinea versicolor: Caused by Malassezia yeast, this condition creates lighter or darker patches on the chest, back, and shoulders. The patches often become more noticeable after sun exposure due to the organism’s interference with normal melanin production.
Candidiasis: Affects skin folds like under the breasts, groin, and armpits, causing red, itchy, sometimes weeping patches with characteristic satellite lesions.
Ringworm (Tinea corporis): Despite its name, this has nothing to do with worms. It presents as circular, red, scaly patches with raised borders and central clearing.
Treatment Approach
Fungal infections require proper diagnosis and targeted treatment:
Topical antifungals: First-line treatment for localized infections
- Clotrimazole, miconazole, or terbinafine creams
- Apply beyond the visible border and continue for 2 weeks after apparent clearance
Systemic antifungals: For extensive or resistant infections
- Fluconazole, itraconazole, or terbinafine tablets
- Require medical supervision due to potential side effects
Preventive measures:
- Keep skin folds dry and well-ventilated
- Use antifungal powders in susceptible areas
- Change clothes immediately after sweating
- Avoid sharing personal items like towels or clothing
4. Melasma (झाइयां): The Pigmentation Challenge
“Fourth is Melesma – brown patches in skin”
Melasma, commonly known as jhaiyan in Hindi, represents one of the most challenging pigmentation disorders dermatologists encounter. This condition manifests as symmetrical brown patches, typically on the face, and shows a strong correlation with sun exposure and hormonal influences.
Understanding Melasma Development
Melasma occurs when excessive sun exposure triggers overproduction of melanin in specific facial areas. The condition typically affects:
- Cheeks (malar pattern)
- Forehead and temples
- Upper lip and chin (centrofacial pattern)
- Jawline (mandibular pattern)
Several factors contribute to melasma development:
- UV radiation: The primary trigger causing melanocyte hyperactivity
- Hormonal fluctuations: Pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and hormone replacement therapy
- Genetic predisposition: Family history significantly increases risk
- Heat exposure: Even non-UV heat can worsen existing melasma
Comprehensive Treatment Strategy
Melasma treatment requires a multi-faceted approach combining prevention, topical treatments, and professional interventions:
Sun protection (non-negotiable):
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ applied every 2-3 hours
- Physical blockers (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) often work better than chemical sunscreens
- Wide-brimmed hats and UV-protective clothing
- Seek shade during peak UV hours
Topical treatments:
- Vitamin C serum: Antioxidant protection and mild brightening effects
- Hydroquinone: Gold standard for melasma treatment (requires prescription)
- Tretinoin: Accelerates cell turnover and enhances other treatments
- Azelaic acid: Gentle alternative with anti-inflammatory properties
Professional treatments:
- Chemical peels (glycolic acid, mandelic acid, TCA)
- Microneedling with vitamin C infusion
- Q-switched lasers for resistant cases
- Combination therapy for optimal results
Skincare routine modifications:
- Gentle cleansers with salicylic acid to promote cell turnover
- Avoid harsh scrubbing which can worsen pigmentation
- Consistent moisturization to maintain barrier function
For those dealing with pigmentation concerns around the eyes, our comprehensive guide on dark circles in Delhi provides additional insights into pigmentation management.
Additional Summer Skin Concerns
Beyond these primary conditions, summer often exacerbates other skin issues:
Acne flares: Increased sweating and humidity can worsen existing acne through pore blockage and bacterial proliferation.
Contact dermatitis: Sunscreen ingredients, insect repellents, and pool chemicals can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Photoaging acceleration: Cumulative UV damage throughout summer months accelerates the aging process, particularly affecting collagen and elastin production.
Creating Your Summer Skin Defense Strategy
Successful summer skin management requires a proactive approach:
Morning routine:
- Gentle cleansing with appropriate active ingredients
- Vitamin C serum application
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen (reapply every 2-3 hours)
- Protective clothing and accessories
Evening routine:
- Thorough cleansing to remove sunscreen and pollutants
- Treatment products (retinoids, hydroquinone) as prescribed
- Barrier repair moisturizer
- Overnight treatments for specific concerns
Weekly maintenance:
- Gentle exfoliation to prevent pore blockage
- Deep conditioning treatments for sun-damaged skin
- Professional treatments as recommended
When to Seek Professional Help
Certain situations warrant immediate dermatological consultation:
- Persistent or worsening skin conditions despite proper care
- Signs of secondary bacterial infection (increased redness, warmth, pus)
- New or changing pigmented lesions
- Severe allergic reactions or widespread rashes
- Conditions affecting quality of life or self-esteem
Professional evaluation ensures accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, preventing minor issues from becoming major problems.
Looking Ahead: Seasonal Skin Health
Summer skin conditions often resolve with cooler weather, but the damage can be cumulative. Early intervention and consistent preventive care throughout the summer months protect against long-term skin health issues while maintaining comfort during the challenging hot season.
Remember, healthy skin is an investment in your overall well-being and confidence. By understanding these common summer conditions and implementing appropriate preventive and treatment strategies, you can enjoy the season while maintaining optimal skin health.
“Stay healthy, stay beautiful.” These aren’t just words they represent a commitment to evidence-based skincare that protects and enhances your natural beauty throughout every season.
Dr. Shruti Patil is a board-certified dermatologist and cosmetologist practicing at Dr. Mahajan Skin To Bone Clinic, Pashim Vihar, New Delhi. With extensive experience treating summer-related skin conditions in the Indian climate, she specializes in comprehensive dermatological care combining prevention, treatment, and aesthetic enhancement.