As the dog days of summer approach and temperatures rise, many of us find ourselves sweating more than usual.
Excess moisture trapped against the skin creates the perfect breeding ground for fungal infections. Common culprits like athlete’s foot and jock itch thrive in sweaty areas, especially between toes, under the arms, or around the groin. You might notice redness, flaking, itching, or a persistent odor. Left untreated, these infections can spread and worsen fast in humid weather.
Another warm-weather threat is intertrigo—a raw, painful rash that develops in skin folds where moisture and friction combine. It often shows up under the breasts, belly, or thighs, and can lead to secondary infections if bacteria or yeast take hold. Similarly, heat rash (or prickly heat) appears when sweat glands become blocked, causing red bumps, stinging, and inflammation, especially in children or anyone in tight clothing.
Excessive sweating can also lead to bacterial infections like pitted keratolysis, which causes crater-like lesions on the soles of the feet and a strong odor, or folliculitis, an inflammation of the hair follicles that looks like acne.
To protect your skin this summer, keep high-friction areas clean and dry. Wear breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics. Use talc-free body powders or antifungal sprays when needed. Change out of damp clothes quickly, and shower regularly.
And if you’re sweating nonstop with no obvious cause, it could be a sign of hyperhidrosis or an underlying medical issue. Don’t ignore it—your skin will thank you for paying attention before a small sweat problem becomes a big skin one.
