Skin care in humid weather

Heat and humidity make sweat rashes, fungal infections and acne more common. A simple routine usually helps.

Everyday routine

• Wash the face twice a day with a mild cleanser and lukewarm water; do not scrub hard.
• Use a light, non-greasy moisturiser.
• Use sunscreen on skin exposed to the sun and reapply when you sweat a lot.
• Wear loose cotton clothes and change out of sweaty clothes soon; dry skin folds well after bathing.

Avoid

• Steroid creams or mixed "fairness" creams without a prescription: they can damage the skin.
• Squeezing pimples.

See a doctor if

• A rash spreads, itches a lot, oozes or comes with fever.
• Acne leaves marks or scars, or does not improve after some weeks of care.
• Swelling of the lips, eyes or face, or difficulty breathing after a cream or food: go to hospital now.

This article is general information and not a substitute for an in-person examination. In an emergency call 999 or go to the nearest hospital.