How to Nurture Rash-Prone Skin During the Wet Season

The wet season can be a hassle if you have rash-prone skin. Suddenly, everything triggers itching, skin bumps, and infections. The harmless practice of typing on your computer or walking outside can trigger a flare-up, and you can blame it on the humid weather. It brings viral and fungal infections, and increases the risk of eczema. If you’re prone to rashes, check out the following ways to keep your skin protected.

The wet season increases the risk of developing skin diseases, according to the Makati Medical Center’s Department of Dermatology. One of the most common culprits is seasonal allergies, which can be triggered by mold spores, fungi, and pet dander, to name a few. Floodwater is also a major cause of skin issues like wound infections and contact dermatitis, notes the American Academy of Dermatology.

Monitor your exposure to these elements and keep your home dust-free to prevent mold growth. If you’re exposed to contaminated water, shower immediately upon arriving home using a body wash like LIFEBUOY Antibacterial Bodywash Total 10. It has Activ Silver+, a powerful germ-fighting ingredient, and a creamy formula that nourishes the skin. If you can’t bathe ASAP, remove all contaminated clothing and disinfect your skin with alcohol.

Seasonal skin care is very much a thing, especially if you’re prone to wet season flare-ups. A lightweight summer lotion may not be able to give your skin the moisture it needs, especially if it’s already threatening to break out in bumps. Manage your skin rashes with a hypoallergenic lotion or moisturizer with occlusive ingredients.

Look for dimethicone, which smooths the skin while helping with rashes. Oat, shea butter, petrolatum, vitamin E, and ceramides can also help control this type of rash by strengthening the skin barrier. In general, the more oil there is in a moisturizer, the better it is for flare-ups, notes the National Eczema Association.

Unfortunately, rain doesn’t always mean cool weather here in the tropics. Sweat rashes can develop when you’re frequently in humid environments such as enclosed rooms, gyms, and public transportation. The bumps can flare up in damp areas of your body like the neck and groin, armpits, and underboobs. 

To keep itchy bumps from developing on your skin, pat these areas dry with a towel after cleansing. You could also air them out before dressing up to avoid trapping moisture between the fabrics and your skin. And if you get caught in the rain, change into dry clothes immediately (bra included!).

Everyone in the Philippines knows that the wet season means dengue season. During this time, puddles of rainwater can accumulate in canals, empty containers, and the like, creating the perfect breeding ground for mosquitos – which transmit the dengue virus through their bite. 

But even if you’re lucky to dodge an infection, you could still develop skin rashes from a regular mosquito bite. Some people are so allergic to the bites that they develop rashes, soreness, extreme itching, and pain in the area. If you tend to get severe reactions to insect bites, always carry an insect repellent. Spray it on your legs, arms, and other exposed areas.

Keep your topical treatments on hand in case you do develop rashes. The most basic medication for mild itchiness is calamine lotion, which you can use to calm insect bites, sweat rashes, and other minor skin issues.

Keep your rash-prone skin protected during the wet season with good hygiene and a moisturizing skincare routine. Being aware of your allergies and risks also helps. When in doubt, consult your doctor about treatments to keep flare-ups from getting worse.