Sweaty hair and discomfort due to high temperatures? We provide solutions for you during the intense hot spell.
Beat the Heat: Tips for Comfortable Outdoor Activities
Staying active and enjoying the outdoors during hot weather doesn't have to be a sweaty, uncomfortable affair. Here are some tips to help you stay comfortable and minimise discomfort caused by heat, sweat, and friction.
Preventing Chafing
Chafing, a common skin irritation caused by repetitive friction from skin rubbing against skin or clothing, can be a nuisance during hot weather. To prevent chafing, keep skin areas prone to friction dry and cool. Frequently pat away sweat, and consider using powders or absorbent products. Trim body hair moderately to reduce friction without causing razor irritation. Wear breathable, moisture-wicking clothing that fits well, such as compression shorts or synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon instead of cotton. Using anti-chafing products like sticks, balms, powders, or creams can further reduce friction by creating a protective layer and absorbing moisture [1][3][5].
Treating Chafing
If chafing occurs, gently clean the irritated area with warm water and mild, fragrance-free soap without rubbing, then pat dry. Apply a healing ointment or an anti-chafing balm to soothe and protect the skin, helping prevent infection and further irritation [3][5].
Preventing Heat Rash
Heat rash, also known as prickly heat or miliaria, happens when sweat gets trapped in blocked pores, causing inflammation and irritation. This is especially common in hot, humid weather and more commonly seen in areas where the skin rubs against skin or clothes. To prevent heat rash, keep the skin cool and dry, and avoid ointments or oil-containing topical products as they block pores and can make the situation worse.
Treating Heat Rash
The best treatment for heat rash is to cool the skin and keep the area dry. Apply anti-itch creams such as calamine lotion or anti-inflammatories such as hydrocortisone cream (for a few days only) [2].
Managing Excessive Sweating
Excessive sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis, can be caused or worsened by warm or humid weather, physical exertion or exercise, anxiety and stress, hormonal changes, medical conditions, certain medications, or a genetic predisposition. If sweating severely disrupts daily activities or occurs without an obvious cause, affects a specific area disproportionately, or if you have a medical condition, medication, or genetic predisposition that causes excessive sweating, you should speak to a healthcare professional [4].
Preventing Footwear Rubbing
Footwear rubbing can result in painful rubbing, sore heels, and unsightly blisters. To prevent this, wear the correct sized shoes, break in new shoes slowly, use anti-blister plasters and heel protectors, carry Vaseline for when feet start to rub, use foot powder to soak up excess moisture, and practice good footcare [6].
Sources:
[1] Marks & Spencer: Anti-Chafe Shorts [2] Dr Nikki Ramskill: Reducing or Preventing Excessive Sweating [3] Nutritionist Alison Bladh: Tackling Heat Rash [4] Dr Robert White: Advice for Chafing Prevention and Treatment [5] Dr Robert: Tips for Preventing Chafing [6] Dr Robert White: Advice for Footwear Rubbing
- For a balanced lifestyle, consider incorporating topics such as health-and-wellness, skin-care, and fitness into your regimen to maintain skin health and prevent common issues like chafing during outdoor activities.
- When it comes to fashion-and-beauty, opt for breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester or nylon to minimize discomfort from friction and sweat while enjoying outdoor activities.
- When you are planning your travel, packing travel-sized anti-chafing balms or sticks can help provide relief if you encounter unpleasant skin irritation.
- In addition to a well-balanced food-and-drink diet, staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining overall health and comfort during outdoor activities, particularly in hot weather.
- Pets, like their owners, can also suffer from heat rash and excessive sweating during hot weather. Keeping them clean, cool, and hydrated can help prevent these issues.
