June 2009 Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource Highlights Summer Skin Problems, Low Vision a...(f the neck on the chest arms and thighs....),Health

People with fair skin and limited sun exposure in the winter are most susceptible. With increasing sun exposure, this type of light sensitivity usually decreases over time. But the same rash may recur next spring after a winter without sun exposure.

Prevention -- Using sunblock and limiting sun exposure can reduce the risk of PMLE.

Treatment -- Cool compresses, hydrocortisone cream and anti-inflammatory medications (Advil, Motrin, others) can help relieve symptoms. PMLE usually clears up on its own in seven to 10 days. When symptoms don't improve, patients should check with a doctor to consider other conditions or possible allergies.

Poison ivy and poison oak: Contact with these plants causes red, swollen skin, blisters and severe itching within days or weeks of exposure. These plants produce an oily substance called urushiol, which causes an allergic reaction in most people. Urushiol can stick to almost anything, including clothes, pet fur, and even gardening tools.

Prevention -- Avoidance is the best prevention. Since leaves from both plants grow in groups of three, a helpful catch phrase to remember is "leaves of three, let them be." For high-risk activities -- hiking or camping -- some dermatologists recommend an over-the-counter skin product that contains bentoquatam, which prevents urushiol from penetrating the skin.

Treatment -- Immediately washing with soap and water after exposure can help. For a mild rash, cool showers, calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream can relieve symptoms. For severe rashes, or rashes that involve the face, eyes or genitals, a doctor's care is advised. Prescription medications, such as an oral corticosteroid, may be needed to reduce itching and swelling.

Chigger and tick bites: Chiggers -- tiny red mites found in grass and w
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