With its humid summers and mild winters, residents of Tennessee experience a wide range of challenges throughout the year. Environmental factors, allergens, and sun exposure contribute to common skin conditions, making finding balance difficult for the body. If you notice any skin changes, you must get a quick diagnosis and visit a dermatologist for support. Let’s look at some of the most common skin conditions in Tennessee and the impact of the state’s climate on your skin health.
The Impact of Tennessee’s Climate on Skin Health
The high humidity and heat in the summer months in Tennessee can often lead to excess sweating and clogged pores. These seasonal changes are particularly challenging for individuals with dry skin or certain skin conditions, which face impacts from temperature and humidity changes. When spending time outdoors in the summer, the increased sun exposure raises concerns about skin cancer and aging. If you notice you are susceptible to these climate changes, you’ll want to try and put a plan in place each year before the hot summer months to try and control your skin health.
Common Skin Conditions in Tennessee
Acne & Breakouts
Acne isn’t just something that teenagers need to be concerned about, as the high humidity levels in the summer months can lead to increased oil production and clogged pores. Common triggers for those living in Tennessee with acne include sweat, wearing sunscreen more often, and poor diet. If you are suffering from acne, you’ll want to work with a dermatologist to find a treatment that works for you and is more potent than typical facial care products in stores.
Eczema & Atopic Dermatitis
Seasonal allergies in Tennessee contribute to eczema flare-ups and can make it unbearable to spend time outdoors. Common eczema and atopic dermatitis triggers include pollen, heat, fabrics, and detergents. If you have eczema, you’ll want to make sure you use gentle products suitable for individuals with this skin condition. Avoid putting harmful chemicals on your skin, which may cause your skin to break out and increase itching.
Poison Ivy & Contact Dermatitis
There is a high prevalence of poison ivy in Tennessee’s outdoor spaces. If you notice you break out in a red rash, experience swelling, or have blisters, you may need first aid to overcome these symptoms. We recommend seeking medical attention if your rash doesn’t disappear or you experience difficulty breathing.
Skin Cancer & Sun Damage
Tennessee’s high UV index increases your chances of sun damage and skin cancer, especially when exposed to the sun in the summer months or when working outdoors. The most common skin cancers in the U.S. and within the state include Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Melanoma. We always recommend that you book an annual skin check or consult your doctor or dermatologist immediately if you notice any changes to your skin.
Bug Bites & Allergic Reactions
Tennessee’s mosquitoes, ticks, and chiggers can affect the skin if you are unlucky enough to be bitten by any of these bugs. If you notice rashes or infections from an allergic reaction or bug bites, look for creams or medications to support your recovery. To avoid bites in the first place, wear loose-fitting full-length pants and tops and use insect repellent when spending time outdoors.
How to Protect Your Skin in Tennessee
To avoid some of the skin conditions we’ve shared above, wear sunscreen and practice good sun protection year-round. In humid conditions, make sure you shower and change your clothes often so that you don’t leave sweat and bacteria on your skin for too long. If you are struggling with allergies or skin conditions, change your detergent, hygiene and beauty products, and clothing to products that are more suitable for sensitive or allergy-prone skin.
Individuals living in Tennessee should take a proactive approach to skincare to help protect themselves from future issues. We recommend scheduling a dermatologist visit for concerns or persistent skin issues so that you can get proper treatment for any problems you face. Our team will be happy to review your symptoms and share advice on how to avoid the recurring problems. Book an appointment at Curcio Dermatology with our Nashville dermatology team today.
