 Report Abuse |
Get relief from itchy skin
11/3/2013 8:14:51 PM
Rain showers keep unbearable heat at bay, but they can also lead to skin
problems which make skin itchy. Medicines can make the itching go away, but you can
start by wearing the right clothes.
Mumbai-based Abhay Talathi from Skin Space Clinic says fungal infection, insect bite or
sting reaction and allergy are the most common causes of itchy skin. He also advises to
take medication according to the cause.
“If one has fungal infection, then antifungal medicine (tablet and cream) can be used.
Anti-allergy tablets or soothing lotion such as Caladryl can be used in case the cause of
itching is allergy,” Talathi said.
The fungal infections are caused due to moisture,
wearing wet denims for a long time and constant
friction against skin.
“There are two kinds of fungal infections -
Ringworm infection which starts as a small portion
and spreads in a ring form. It commonly occurs in
the sole of the feet, armpits and behind the ears.
Pityriasis versicolor shows as light coloured or
black coloured patches on arms, chest or back,” he explained.
Talathi said that diabetic patients are more prone
to such infections. But it`s advisable that everyone takes precautions. He suggests that people should wear dry clothes and after shower, one should make
sure to dry themselves completely before wearing clothes. Also, powder can be used to
avoid fungal infections, and wear full-sleeved clothes to protect body parts from insect
bites or stings. In case of severe itching, it`s best to seek medical advice. Navin Taneja, director, National Skin Centre, says prickly heat rash is also common
during rainy days.
“Prickly heat rash is a red pimply eruption which is very common in hot and humid
weather. This kind of weather causes sweating, but clogging the skin pores does not
allow the sweat to get out and as a result, prickly heat rash pops up,” said Taneja.
He suggests simple remedies - wear loose cotton and linen clothing. To ease itching,
you can also apply calamine lotion. Taneja said that exposure to sun rays can also cause rashes and burns resulting in red,
scaly and itchy skin.
“Instead of soap, use homemade cleanser that ensures deep pore cleansing to wash
away all the impurities. Use toner made with green leaves or rose water in place of
alcohol-based toner. Aloe vera is a beneficial curing agent for skin diseases caused by
rain. It purifies the blood,” he said.
“Use sunscreen half an hour before going outdoors. Take shower every time after
getting wet in rain,” he added.
|