Heat wave: Docs advise sunscreen, long sleeves to avoid skin problems

Ludhiana: The heat wave has increased skin problems but the city’s dermatologists claim that all this itch, rash, and tanning can be checked with proper care.
Dermatologist Dr Alka Dogra gets five to six cases a day of summer-related skin problems such as photo-contact dermatitis, hydrated and inflated pimples, fungal infection such as athlete’s foot and bacterial infection such as boils. She said: “The exposed skin is being tanned due to strong sun. Long exposure to sun leads to sunburn and irritation across all age groups.”
Another city-based dermatologist Dr Jastinder Gill said: “The immediate reactions of sunburn are swelling, redness of the skin, and irritation on the face but, in case of patients with chronic skin ailments, the itching in the sun-exposed areas is more severe. The middle-aged or old skin is vulnerable especially.” She advises people to avoid the 11am-to-4pm sun or wear sunscreen or a hat. They should also carry an umbrella.
Dr Bimal Kanish, dermatologist and president of the Ludhiana chapter of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), said photo dermatitis occurred if the face or outer forearm is exposed to direct sunlight. The affected area becomes reddish first and then turns white. He said: “In case of fungal allergy, there is itchy disorder due to sweat and it affects the foot, groin, and arm areas mostly. But these can be avoided by taking preventive measures.”
He recommends wearing arm-length clothes instead of sleeveless outfits. He also advises his patients to use a good talcum or anti-fungal powder along with applying sunscreen if they are stepping outside. Cotton, he says, is the best skin-friendly fabric and ideal for summer.