for the majority, summer is synonymous with freedom. For those with atopic or sensitive skin, It can be a time of doubt.: can I swim in the pool? Does the sun feel good or bad to me?? How do I avoid an outbreak without giving up anything?? The good news is that enjoying summer with atopic skin is completely possible — it just requires knowing your triggers and having the right routine..
What is atopic skin and why does summer affect it?
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic condition that disrupts the skin barrier, making the skin lose water more easily and be more vulnerable to external irritants. In summer, several environmental factors can destabilize it more frequently than usual.
The summer routine for atopic and sensitive skin
More than adding products, It's about choosing well the ones you already use and applying them at the right time.. These are the pillars:
- Gentle cleaning: soap-free gels, unscented and with neutral or slightly acidic pH, that cleanse without removing the natural hydrolipidic mantle of the skin.
- Immediate hydration: apply moisturizer right after showering, with skin still slightly damp. In atopic skin, That moment is key to sealing the skin barrier.
- Specific sun protection: preferably with mineral filters, Unscented and formulated for sensitive skin. The sun can temporarily improve some symptoms, but unprotected exposure damages the barrier in the long term.
- Breathable clothing: Natural fabrics such as cotton reduce friction and heat accumulated on the skin, two of the main triggers of itching.
What about children with atopic skin??
Atopic dermatitis is especially common in childhood. In summer, children spend more hours in the sun, in the pool and in contact with sand — all factors that can destabilize your skin. The key is to maintain the same routine as always., adapted to the environment: gentle cleaning, constant hydration and sun protection formulated for sensitive children's skin.
Instituto Español has a range developed specifically for the needs of the atopic skin: unscented formulations, without dyes and with ingredients that respect and reinforce the skin barrier. Designed for daily use by the whole family, including the smallest, and especially indicated in the summer months when the skin needs more support.
