What Causes Sensitive Skin in Summer?
Summertime means swimming in chlorinated pools all weekend long, and being exposed to a lot more allergens, heat, humidity, and stronger sunscreens than we’re used to in the winter months. Although many of us love a warm, languid summer, there’s no denying that it can sometimes play havoc on our skin, especially if we have skin that is prone to being more sensitive or irritated. Major factors that can cause more irritated skin during summer are:
- Increased exposure to the sun's UV rays can cause skin sensitivity and irritation. Sunburns, in particular, can make the skin more prone to sensitivity during the summer months.
- High temperatures and humidity levels can lead to excessive sweating, which can irritate the skin and cause sensitivity. The combination of heat and moisture can disrupt the skin's natural balance.
- Summer brings an abundance of allergens such as pollen, grass, and insect bites. These allergens can trigger allergic reactions and skin sensitivity in individuals with allergies or sensitivities.
- Some stronger skincare products are not suitable for sensitive skins during the summer. Harsh cleansers, exfoliants, or ingredients can strip the skin's natural oils and cause sensitivity.
- Chlorine is commonly used in swimming pools to maintain water hygiene. However, it can irritate and dry out the skin, leading to sensitivity for some individuals.
To manage sensitive skin in summer, it is important to protect your skin from the sun using sunscreen and appropriate clothing. Things such as avoiding prolonged exposure to heat and humidity can go a long way, as well as choose gentle and hypo-allergenic skincare products. When you ensure that your skin stays hydrated and take precautions while swimming in chlorinated pools (such as rinsing off thoroughly after swimming and moisturising the skin) it all helps you towards your goal of taking care of your skin.
And of course, you can also try these home remedies for managing sensitive skin:
Aloe vera gel
Aloe vera gel is a top-notch natural element for sensitive skin. Its soothing properties, coupled with the presence of vitamin E, make it effective in healing skin redness and itchiness.
1. Split open the leaf of an aloe plant.
2. Extract the gel from inside.
3. Apply the gel onto the affected area.
4. Let it dry overnight, then rinse it off with plain water in the morning.
5. It's normal to feel mild itchiness after applying the gel.
Honey
Honey is more than just a soothing agent; it also possesses antibacterial properties that keep sensitive skin moisturised without causing any irritation. Using honey on your skin can provide an instant radiant glow as well.
1. Place 2 tbsp of honey in a bowl.
2. Add 2 tsp of cinnamon powder and mix thoroughly.
3. Apply the mixture onto the affected area, leaving it on for 15 minutes.
4. Rinse off with water to achieve smooth and supple skin.
Overripe banana
While an overripe banana might not be suitable for consumption, it can be repurposed into an excellent skin moisturiser for sensitive areas of your body. It effectively exfoliates, removing dead skin cells, and locks in moisture, preventing dryness and itchiness on your skin.
1. Mash an overripe banana in a bowl.
2. Add 1 tsp of honey and 2 tsp of curd to the mashed banana.
3. Thoroughly mix the ingredients and apply the mixture onto the affected area.
4. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then wash it off and gently pat dry your skin. And then, after you’ve applied your home remedy, reach for the Dove.
Which Type of Body Lotion is Good for Sensitive Skin?
Dove Body Love Light Care Body Lotion for All Skin Types, although not developed specifically for sensitive skin, is a light formulation that can add that much needed moisture top-up:
- Dove Light Care is fast-absorbing within the skin for soft, instantly refreshed skin
- It is dermatologically tested and promises to moisturise your skin for up to 48 hours.
- Dove Body Love Light Care is enriched with Ceramide Restoring Serum for superior hydrating, that increases your skins softness and prevents oiliness.
How To Alleviate Sensitive Skin in Summer with A Good Body Lotion
Always moisturise your skin with a good moisturiser such as a Dove’s Light Body Lotion, after you’ve showered or bathed. Stay away from using any harsh soaps or washes that can cause irritation or inflammation of the skin during showering. Dry yourself with a dry, soft towel and generously apply the body lotion to all areas of your body using light massage movements. If your sensitive skin is from a medical condition, it is important to first check in with your dermatologist on the correct course of action to alleviate it.
How Else To Alleviate Irritated Skin?
- Never use a harsh soap or body wash. Our Dove Sensitive Beauty Bar is fragrance-fee and hypo-allergenic, helping you to calm your skin with every shower or bath, and to manage flair-ups and irritation.
- Make sure you drink enough water and keep yourself hydrated during the day.
- Use an SPF-50 sunscreen that is hypo-allergenic and formulated for sunscreen for those hot summer days.
- Avoid extreme temperatures if possible, and always be mindful of the sun. Try to avoid hours of direct exposure to the sun.
Dove, where beauty is not defined by shape, size, or colour.
FAQs
Do you need a different body lotion in summer to alleviate sensitive skin?
You can use Dove Body Love Light Body Lotion all year around, but we highly recommend you first identify the cause of your sensitive skin with a dermatologist.
What body lotion is best for sensitive skin in summer?
Choose a body lotion that has been dermatologically tested to be safe on sensitive skin and avoid a lotion that uses harsh chemicals or a lot of added ingredients.
Can we use normal body lotion for sensitive skin?
While some people continue to use normal body lotion, it helps to check in with your dermatologist and ensure your lotion doesn’t worsen your sensitive skin. Always start with a patch test to see if your skin reacts to it in any way. This will help you see how your skin reacts to the lotion.
Is a body cream or a body lotion better to use in summer for sensitive skin?
You can decide which type of product your skin prefers. However, a body lotion tends to be lighter and doesn’t leave an oily feeling afterwards which is ideal for summer. Depending on your skins needs, you’ll be better able to find a product to alleviate your sensitive skin with the right product.
When should I apply body lotion in summer for sensitive skin?
You should apply your body lotion every time after every bath or shower, whether at night or in the morning or both.
