After the scorching heat of April-June, finally July with showers and drizzles of happiness and relief. But unfortunately, as the rainy season approaches, it brings loads of skin and health problems in the form of eruptions, allergies, boils, infections, etc. And these allergies can be a little cumbersome to treat, so try to follow this famous phrase, especially in monsoon- "Prevention is better than cure". During monsoon, different guidelines are released from the health department; follow those steps to keep dengue, malaria, and skin infections at bay. The first and foremost concern is storing water; stored water can be the hotbed of dengue mosquitoes and insects. So, try to take special care of your plants and ensure you drain all the water from the pot after it rains.

The humid and cloudy weather in monsoon is the perfect atmosphere to welcome viral and fungal infections, germs, and insects. The most common skin allergies in monsoon are Skin Eczema, Scabies, Acne, Dermatitis, Heat Rash, Redness for itching, Pimples, etc. When the humidity in the weather rises, our skin becomes susceptible to allergies and rashes. Also, the chances of insect biting can increase during the monsoon. In addition, the monsoon climate triggers excessive oil secretion on the glands that cause acne and pimples.

Types of skin allergies in monsoon:

Acne:

In monsoon, both the genders go through the same trouble. It happens due to the apparent rise of humidity in the weather, which stimulates excessive sebum production in the sebaceous gland. It might not be a life-threatening disease, but it can worsen if left untreated. So instead of rushing to the salon or investing in concealers, try to eliminate the problem from its roots. Visit a dermatologist and take proper suggestions on the healing of monsoon acne. Also, try to make some changes in your diet; antioxidant-rich food options often help reduce acne.

Symptoms:

• Skin bumps
• Papules or small red spots on the skin
• Pustules or small red bumps with yellow or white pus
• Redness around the skin infections
• Nodules or large solid, painful lumps
• White and blackheads
• Scarring on the skin
• Continuous itching

• Wash your face with lukewarm water
• Use a mild cleanser for deep cleaning
• Moisturize regularly
• Don't rub your face with dirty hands
• Hydrate your skin
• Keep your skin clean; switch to organic soaps like TheBetterHome's Tea tree bath soap. This plant-based bathing soap controls excessive oil secretion and is loaded with the goodness of tea tree essential oil. This sulphate and toxic-free bathing bar also consist of anti-septic and anti-bacterial properties.

Fungal infection:

Fungal infection or ringworm is one of the most common infections in monsoon, which happens due to the lack of moisture in the climate. Ringworms thrive in areas that are shady, sweaty, and not exposed to the sunlight. Ringworm or fungal infection can be transmitted through towels, utensils, and public toilets. Avoid scratching the infected area; otherwise, fungal infection can spread over the body.

Symptoms:

• Red patches around the neck, armpits, and soles of feet
• Itching and inflammation around the body fold like the groin area, armpit, inner thighs
• Brittle and yellowish-green nail tips

• Wear open footwear to avoid sweaty feet
• Wear clean and dry clothes
• Change undergarments after exercise
• Apply anti-fungal powder in socks and footwear
• Switch to paraben-free soaps

Athlete's foot:

Athletes' foot is recognized through itchy, scaly patches on their feet. A fungus called candida causes Athlete's foot, resulting in brittle toenails and nail infections. The signs and symptoms of Athlete's foot are closely related to the fungal infection and joke itch. This contagious infection can spread through floors, towels, socks, or footwear.

Symptoms:

• Scaly or cracked skin between the toes
• Itchiness after taking off the shoes
• Inflammation and reddish spots
• Blisters
• Burning sensation
• Dry skin on the bottom of the foot that gets extended on the side

• Keep your feet dry and clean
• Apply anti-septic powder or gel
• Wear comfortable sandals
• Avoid wearing socks that are made with thick material
• Don't roam around barefoot, especially in pools and gym areas
• Wear alternate shoes every day
• Don't share towels or shoes with an infected person

Hyperpigmentation:

Hyperpigmentation happens due to excessive melanin production in the skin cells. Due to the humid nature, melanin production becomes hyperactive and causes dark spots and uneven skin tone.

Symptoms:

• Black sunspots on the skin
• Inflammation and redness
• Discolouration of the skin tone
• Dark patches growing in size

• Avoid direct sunlight
• Apply water and some apple cider vinegar to the patches
• Apply aloe vera gel before sleeping
• Avoid direct sunlight exposure
• Apply wet green tea bags to the patches
• Milk lightens the skin tone due to the presence of lactic acid
• Use a hat to protect your scalp
• Drink adequate water to get hydrated skin
• Limit touching your skin
• Apply sunscreen everyday
• Use or eat Vitamin C enriched products

Eczema:

Eczemas are skin rashes or allergies caused by dermatitis. Humidity and the fluctuating temperature insist skin Eczema during monsoon. Avoid scratching the infected areas that can damage the skin and lead to bleeding or secondary skin infections. Mostly children and newborn babies are prone to skin Eczema.

Symptoms:

• Dry skin
• Severe itching that may increase gradually
• Red or brown patches on hands, feet, chest, ankles, wrists, face, scalp, elbows, and knees
• Small bumps that leak fluid it scratched badly
• Cracked scaly skin
• Raw and swollen spots after scratching

• Keep moisturizing your skin
• Try not to get too sweaty
• Try not to be too stressed
• Don't use harsh soaps or solvents