How Should We Protect Our Skin During the Summer Season?

Yeditepe University Hospitals Dermatology Specialist Prof. Dr. M. Oktay Taşkapan gave information about the skin diseases that are common with the warming of the weather and the methods of protecting the skin against them.

Giving information about the methods of protecting our skin in summer, Yeditepe University Hospitals Dermatology Specialist Prof. Dr. M. Oktay Taşkapan emphasized that the most important thing during this period is sun protection. Dr. Taşkapan stated that the protective product should be selected according to age and skin type. "Especially in children and newborns, products specially produced for this group should be used." People with very sensitive skin also need to be careful when choosing a sunscreen. Sunscreens are of two types: those containing physical and chemical filters. Although chemical filters are very rare, they can cause contact allergies in some people.”

No Products Needed Over 50 Factors

Referring to the points to be considered in terms of factor characteristics when choosing sunscreen products, Dr. Taşkapan: “I do not think protective creams above SPF (sun protection factor) level 50 make sense. Most of them are made for commercial purposes. A product with a factor of 30-50 is sufficient.” Pointing out that the product should also be selected according to the skin type, Dr. Taşkapan also added: “In mixed skin types, I sometimes recommend using a separate product for the face and a separate product for the body. On less problematic skin, the same product can be used in all areas.” Stating that sensitive people should use sunscreen in summer and winter and especially summer, Dr. Taşkapan warns that the product should be applied half an hour before going out into the sun to allow it to penetrate the skin and then reapplied every 2-3 hours.

Emphasizing that Turkey is a very hot and sunny country in summer, Dr. Taşkapan says, “Even if you use a protector, I do not recommend going out in the sun between 11.00-15.00 in summer.”

Humidity and Hot Weather Invite Fungi

Drawing attention to the fact that fungi cases also increase with the increase in humidity and heat in summer, Dr. Taşkapan: “Care should be taken not to keep the skin moist or wet. Various fungal diseases may occur due to moisture, especially in the toes, groins, and other folds. Therefore, it is necessary not to sit in a wet bathing suit, preferably shower after the sea and pool, and dry with a soft towel (to reduce irritation). ”

Reminding that excessive sweating is another condition that can invite fungal and similar diseases on the skin, Dr. Taşkapan states that people who sweat excessively should change their clothes as often as possible.

In skin diseases, patients tend to try to make their own diagnosis and take drugs from the pharmacy. Dr. Taşkapan: “That is not a true approach. When it comes to a complaint, you must consult a dermatologist and act according to the doctor's diagnosis.”