Dr. Chad Hendrickson

With many stores and attractions still closed because of COVID-19, Pennsylvanians are heading outdoors for exercise and entertainment.

And while spending time outdoors is beneficial, extra sun exposure can be harmful to a person's skin.

It's important to be mindful of skin health as summer approaches.

“The skin is your body's protection against all types of insults from the outside world,” said Dr. Chad Hendrickson, a dermatologist for Butler Health System. “A healthy barrier protects against bacteria, viruses, fungus, chemicals, pollutants, UV radiation and more.”

Perhaps the most talked about skin problem resulting from excessive outdoor summertime activity is skin cancer.

Hendrickson said though skin cancer can appear any time during the year, people are at more risk for exposure to damaging UV rays during sunnier months.

“Skin cancer isn't seasonal,” Hendrickson said. “It's generally believed to be the result of repeated exposure to the sun in susceptible people.”

As much as 90 percent of skin cancers are linked to sun exposure, according to the Mayo Clinic. The clinic recognizes about 5.4 million new cases of skin cancer in the U.S. are reported annually.

Citing the American Academy of Dermatology, Hendrickson noted skin cancer is the most common cancer type in the U.S. It may manifest in different ways, including as a sore on the skin's surface that won't heal.

“Skin cancers are usually detected as red or brown-black growths on the skin,” Hendrickson said. “They may grow rapidly, or take years to become visible.”

He added most skin cancer is directly related to sun exposure, but people can decrease their chances of developing it with a few simple steps. Avoiding mid-day sun, applying sunscreen and wearing protective clothing can help long-term.

Hendrickson said skin cancer isn't the only thing people should be mindful of when they start spending more and more time outside.

Plant allergens and insect bites can be problematic enough to end in trips to the ER. Poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac are among the most common summertime afflictions, according to Hendrickson. Stings and reactions to water-borne larva are also cause for concern.

“I always advocate for preparedness,” Hendrickson said. “Have sunscreen, hats, insect repellent and other protection available.”

Hendrickson said many people further damage their skin “in the name of cleanliness and hygiene.”

A number of his patients exhibit severe rashes related to using hot water, harsh soap and dry heat. Showering with tepid water and using a gentle cleanser help promote skin health, according to Hendrickson.

“I believe the biggest misconception about skin care is that we need all kinds of products to make it healthy,” Hendrickson said. “A healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, exercise and a healthy diet, go a long way towards having healthy skin.”

Hendrickson said protection is the number one thing people can do for healthy skin.

“The skin has an amazing ability to regenerate and protect itself,” Hendrickson said. “If we allow it.”