6 Skin diseases to Watch Out for During the Rainy Season

6 Skin diseases to Watch Out for During the Rainy Season
      When the rainy season arrives, skin health risks quietly follow! High humidity, wet surfaces, muddy grounds, and stagnant water create the perfect breeding ground for germs. That’s why skin conditions often flare up during this time.

Let’s explore 6 common skin diseases you should watch out for during the rainy season.

Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)

      Also known as “Hong Kong Foot”, this fungal infection is common during the rainy season, especially among people who wear wet shoes for long periods.

• Symptoms : Itchy, peeling, burning skin between the toes or on soles, possibly with bacterial infection if left untreated
• Cause : Dermatophyte fungi thrive in moisture
• Prevention : Keep feet dry, avoid damp shoes, don’t share towels or footwear
• Treatment : Antifungal cream or oral medication if severe

Ringworm & Tinea Versicolor
      These fungal infections can affect other parts of the body such as the groin, torso, or back.

• Symptoms : Red, itchy, ring-shaped rashes; or white/brown discolored patches (tinea versicolor)
• Cause : Excessive sweating, tight clothing, damp environments
• Prevention : Wear breathable clothes, change into dry clothes often
• Treatment : Topical or oral antifungals depending on severity

Atopic Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
      Those with sensitive skin or allergies may experience flare-ups from humidity and sweat.

• Symptoms : Red, dry, itchy, or inflamed skin—often in folds like underarms or beneath the breasts
• Cause : Heat, sweat, skin friction
• Prevention : Use gentle soaps, avoid irritants or fragrances
• Treatment : Moisturizers, anti-itch creams, or topical steroids as prescribed

Insect Bite Reactions
      Rainy weather brings insects like mosquitoes, midges, and rove beetles.

• Symptoms : Redness, swelling, blisters, burning; severe allergic reactions may cause pus
• Cause : Insect bites or contact with secretions (e.g. rove beetle toxins)
• Prevention : Long-sleeve clothing, insect repellent, avoid dark, damp areas
• Treatment : Clean area, apply anti-inflammatory creams; seek medical help if symptoms worsen

Pitted Keratolysis (Smelly Feet)
      Often mistaken for mere foot odor, this condition is caused by bacterial infection.

• Symptoms : Small pits on soles, peeling skin, foul smell
• Cause : Closed shoes, sweat, or underlying conditions like diabetes
• Prevention : Keep feet dry, change socks daily, use breathable footwear
• Treatment : Topical antibiotics and good hygiene practices

Rainy Season Acne
      Breakouts are common during wet weather due to clogged pores and bacteria.

• Symptoms : Inflamed pimples, pus-filled acne, or heat rash—especially on cheeks, chin, or under masks
• Cause : Humidity and poor ventilation leading to bacterial overgrowth
• Prevention : Wash your face thoroughly, use non-comedogenic products, change masks daily
• Treatment : Acne treatments as prescribed; consult a dermatologist if severe

      The rainy season is known for its high humidity. For those with atopic dermatitis, this season may trigger flare-ups.
The general principle is to apply moisturizers and nourishing creams regularly, avoid stagnant or dirty water, and if contact is unavoidable or has already occurred, clean and dry the skin thoroughly. You may also use body powder, especially for those who have had fungal infections before — antifungal powders can be helpful. In addition, it’s important to keep your body healthy by eating a balanced diet with all 5 food groups, especially vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene, such as corn, carrots, oranges, guava, and tomatoes. Drink plenty of clean water and get adequate rest. If you notice any abnormal conditions on your skin, you should consult a specialist for proper treatment.

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