Know All About The Summer Skin Rashes

Overview

Summer in Australia brings sunny weather and beach outings, but it can also lead to skin rashes due to heat, perspiration, and humidity. While these rashes are typically mild, they can be bothersome or indicate an underlying problem. Here’s what to understand.

What are summer skin rashes?

Summer rashes are alterations in the skin's hue or texture caused by irritation or inflammation. They commonly develop in areas prone to sweating, such as the neck, back, armpits, inner thighs, and face.

Types

Here’s a quick overview of the rashes you might encounter during warm weather.

Heat rash (prickly heat or miliaria)

• This occurs when sweat glands become blocked in hot, humid conditions.
• Small red bumps
• Itchy or prickly feeling
• Common among both adults and children

Contact dermatitis

• This results from the skin coming into contact with irritants such as sunscreen, perfume, or pool chemicals.
• Red, itchy, or blistered spots
• Appears at the site of contact

Sun rash (polymorphic light eruption)

• Some individuals experience a sensitivity rash when exposed to sunlight.
• Red, itchy patches
• Small bumps after being in the sun

Fungal infections (ringworm, athlete’s foot)

• Warm, moist conditions foster fungal growth.
• Red, scaly, itchy areas
• Frequently found in skin folds or between toes

Swimmer’s itch

• This occurs after swimming in infected lakes or beaches.
• Red, itchy bumps
• Presents shortly after exiting the water

Hives (urticaria)

• Heat, perspiration, or allergies can cause sudden welts.
• Raised, itchy patches
• Disappear and reappear quickly

Causes

These elements often trigger flare-ups during the summer.

• Excessive sweating and clogged pores
• Extended exposure to the sun
• Friction from tight-fitting clothes
• Irritation from chlorine and saltwater
• Allergic reactions to sunscreen or insect bites
• Bacterial or fungal growth in damp areas