7 Skin Conditions Desert Dwellers Should Be Aware of ...

Sure, the sun shines all over the globe, but when you live in the desert, certain sun-related skin conditions are something you’ll need to think about. The sun is especially bright and searing in the desert, even if you live in the city. So, it’s absolutely vital to be sure you take the proper sun protection steps. I once got such a bad sunburn that my body scabbed over. Not only is it painful and unattractive, but a sunburn also increases your risk of skin cancer. Your best bet is to stay indoors during the hottest part of the day, but if you are going to be outside, make sure you slather up with sunscreen every couple of hours.

Dehydration can quickly give you dry skin. It’s hard to stay properly hydrated in a place where the temperature often soars above 100 degrees. Not getting enough fluid in your diet can dehydrate your body, which may dry out your skin, leaving it flaky and tight. It’s important to get enough water on a daily basis as well as eating plenty of foods with a high water content.

In the desert where there isn't a lot of mountains or other natural landforms, there isn’t much protection from the wind. And let me tell you, it can really whip through – sometimes so strong that it’s hard to stand upright. All that wind can really do a number on your skin, leaving it dried out and chapped. If you’re stuck in a windstorm, be sure to adequately moisturize your skin as soon as possible afterward to keep the effects as minimal as possible.

For adults who suffer from eczema, there are certain triggers that really exacerbate the symptoms. While triggers aren’t the same for everyone, the hot, dry weather in the desert is for some people. If you notice a flare up of your symptoms, which include dry, scaly and discolored skin, the weather may be to blame. Talk to your dermatologist about an appropriate skin cream to help combat the condition and prevent the pain and discomfort it often causes.

Many people report an increase in psoriasis symptoms during the winter. This is true even if you live in the desert. When the temperature dips and the days and nights are colder, you might experience a flare up of symptoms. Psoriasis often clears up with sun exposure, so covering up during the cold months can cause the condition to worsen. Because desert nights can get bitterly cold, you aren’t exempt if you move south. Keep this in mind so you’re stocked up with the medications you use to keep psoriasis symptoms at bay.

Acne is an all over the world kind of problem. Most people have it to some degree during their life, no matter where they live. However, living in the desert makes it worse for some people. That may be because the use of moisturizer increases as does the risk of dry skin. If you notice that you’re getting a lot of pimples and other blemishes, talk to a doctor about medications and treatments that can help.

Desert rheumatism is a skin condition that affects both the skin and the lungs. It’s caused by bacteria that a person breathes in. This skin condition can leave you with red, raised welts on your skin in addition to breathing and respiratory issues. If you notice any of these symptoms, get to a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment right away.

Do you notice skin changes in different climates? I hope you learned something from my list! Here’s to great looking skin for all of us.