You’ve probably never thought much about a rash until you’re in the middle of a Yuma summer, itching your way through what was supposed to be a relaxing evening outside.
The truth is, spending time outdoors in Yuma summers comes with a unique set of skin challenges. But knowing what’s behind that irritation and how to soothe it can make all the difference.
Here’s something worth knowing: not all summer skin irritants are created equal. Heat rash happens when sweat gets trapped under the skin, leaving behind red, itchy bumps that clear up once you cool down. Tinea versicolor, a common fungal infection, thrives in warm and humid conditions and can cause patches of skin to shift color, often more noticeable after time in the sun. For people sensitive to sunlight, even a few hours outside can trigger polymorphous light eruption, an itchy rash that tends to show up on the chest, neck and arms within hours of sun exposure.
And if you’ve been spending time near tall grass along the river or in open fields, bug bites could be the culprit behind those stubborn clusters of raised, itchy bumps. Late summer also brings ragweed into bloom, which can cause a red, streaky rash in people with allergies.
Most of these rashes clear up with over-the-counter creams, daily showers, loose-fitting clothing and a little time. But if a rash is spreading, blistering or simply not improving, that’s your cue to check in with your primary care provider.
