Today's Edition
KHALED AL KHAWALDEH (ABU DHABI)
As summer’s scorching heat intensifies, dermatologists are urging the public to prioritise hydration and a balanced diet to maintain healthy skin.
Speaking to Aletihad, Dr. Aishani Shah, a Consultant Dermatologist at Mubadala Health in Dubai, explained how dehydration as well as extreme humidity in the UAE summer results in a higher number of patients experiencing skin damage.
“Excess moisture in the air can affect the skin in various ways. High humidity can increase sebum production, leading to acne breakouts. It can also cause skin rashes, fungal infections, and exacerbate conditions like eczema and psoriasis,” she told Aletihad.
“Including hydrating foods that are rich in antioxidants like leafy greens, cucumbers, watermelon, coconut water and berries, into your summer diet will help protect the skin from cellular damage, and avoiding smoking, which causes free radicals, can go a long way in maintaining optimal skin health.”
Dr. Shah explained that skin loses approximately 400-500 millilitres of water each day, necessitating diligent replenishment to counteract any potential issues.
This was echoed by Dr. Rajesh Radhakrishnan, a Specialist Dermatologist at Aster Clinic Discovery Gardens & Business Bay, who said that getting enough sleep, exercise, and avoiding caffeinated drinks, all resulted in better skin health for patients.
He also recommended simplifying skin care routines, reducing the amount of times hair is washed to avoid dryness, and taking proper sun safety precautions to avoid the worst impacts of the relentless summer sun.
“Summers result in dry and patchy skin, pores clogged with dirt because of excess sweating, tanning, sunspots, and sunburns. A lot of times, people tend to continue the same skin care routine for summers and winters. It is essential to understand that the skin requires extra attention during the summer, and it is extremely essential to meet the essential skincare requirements,” Dr. Radhakrishnan said.
According to a study published in the Journal of Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery, acne is a prevalent issue in the UAE, particularly among teenagers and young adults.
Approximately 60 percent of adolescents in the UAE experience acne, which is influenced by the region’s hot and humid climate. Moreover, research by the Emirates Dermatology Society indicates that eczema, or atopic dermatitis, affects around 15 percent of children in the UAE.
The prevalence in adults is also significant, with many experiencing flare-ups due to the extreme weather conditions.
The UAE has also seen a rise in skin cancer cases, which is partly attributed to increased sun exposure without adequate protection.
According to the UAE Ministry of Health, skin cancer rates have been increasing, with a noticeable rise in cases linked to excessive sun exposure and inadequate use of sunscreen.
For those looking to go the extra mile, Dr. Shah recommends implementing a holistic skincare routine.
She offered several key recommendations, including choosing a hydrating cleanser and a lightweight, water-based moisturizer to prevent pore blockage, which is exacerbated by the hot, humid climate.
Moreover, she said applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of between 30-50 is essential, and should be applied generously and reapplied every three to four hours to protect against UV rays.
She warned, however, that heavy moisturizers can worsen pore blockage, making it preferable to opt for gel-based products or those containing hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and zinc, as these ingredients effectively hydrate the skin without contributing to pore clogging.
Dr. Shah said exfoliation is another important aspect of summer skincare she said.
Removing dead skin cells helps prevent clogged pores and promotes a smoother complexion.
Dr. Shah advised using chemical exfoliants like Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) instead of physical scrubs, which can irritate sensitive skin.
Exfoliating once or twice a week is sufficient to avoid over-drying, and it is crucial to follow up with a moisturizer.
“Always remember that healthy skin is a reflection of the overall health of an individual. If your body is not healthy, the aftereffects will start showing up on the skin. Maintaining a proper and healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and moderate workout will help keep the skin fresh, healthy, and glowing throughout the summer,” Dr. Radhakrishnan said.
