Cosmetologist listed the common skin infections in summer

In summer, when temperatures and humidity rise, especially favorable conditions are created for the spread of skin infections. Dermatomycosis, which affects the feet and areas between the fingers, as well as candidiasis, are more common among fungal diseases, Natalia Mikhailova, a dermatovenerologist, cosmetologist, and founder of Dr. Mikhailova's network of aesthetic medicine clinics, Reforma, told Izvestia.

"Along with fungal infections, viral skin lesions are common. For example, herpes simplex is a common problem not only on the lips, but also on other areas of the skin, including the nose and the area around the mouth. In addition, shingles caused by the herpes virus can also appear on the body along the nerve fibers," she noted.

According to her, another common type of viral skin infections is papillomavirus. They manifest themselves in the form of various neoplasms on the skin, such as warts. Infection is especially common in summer, when children and adults go barefoot, for example, in the pool, sauna or on the beach. In the presence of microcracks and reduced immunity, the virus easily penetrates the skin and causes the growth of warts, mainly on the palms and feet.

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"Bacterial skin infections are also very common and are most often caused by staphylococci and streptococci. These can be boils, carbuncles, acne and other purulent-inflammatory processes, which, in addition to physical discomfort, can significantly worsen a person's appearance and reduce their self—esteem," the doctor said.

At the same time, there are skin diseases associated with chronic inflammatory processes, such as psoriasis, as well as contact dermatitis, which develop when the skin interacts with irritating substances. In summer, when various liquids are used more often to light fires, barbecue outings and outdoor games are active, children and adults can come into contact with chemicals, which causes burns and skin inflammation, the expert added.

The dermatovenerologist drew attention to the fact that at this time of the year, cases of allergic skin reactions associated with flowering plants, pollen and the consumption of seasonal fruits and vegetables containing potential allergens are becoming more frequent.

"In the summer, the skin barrier becomes especially vulnerable. Wet clothes, prolonged exposure to water, increased sweating — all this leads to maceration of the skin and disruption of its protective functions. In a moist and warm environment, microorganisms, whether fungi, bacteria or viruses, penetrate the skin more easily and multiply faster. Additional friction, especially in the folds and under clothing, also contributes to the development of inflammation and infections," Mikhailova said.

The ways of transmission of skin infections are diverse. Most often, this is a contact method — through touching infected skin or infected objects: towels, shoes, gym equipment, communal benches in baths and saunas.

Transmission through bed linen or clothing is also possible, especially in the presence of microtrauma on the skin and weakened immunity. Herpes and some other viral infections can enter the body by airborne droplets or through infected secretions and rashes, the doctor explained. The risk of infection is especially high in public places with high humidity: swimming pools, baths, saunas, gyms, beauty salons.

"Prevention of skin infections in summer is especially important. It includes personal hygiene, regular showers after visiting pools or gyms, the use of individual towels and hygiene items, wearing dry and clean clothes, changing swimsuits after bathing," Mikhailova said.

Skin injuries should be avoided and any damage treated with an antiseptic. Shoes must be regularly dried and disinfected, especially if they are synthetic and the feet sweat in them. It is advisable not to wear the same pair every day, especially in the heat.

Earlier, on May 28, Marina Gureeva, associate professor of the Department of Pediatric Diseases at the Medical Faculty of the State University of Education, a dermatovenerologist, told Izvestia that the occurrence of rosacea can be affected by sunburn, severe stress, prolonged exposure to high or low temperatures. A diet with the consumption of large amounts of hot food and drinks can also lead to the disease.