Skin Care Basics for Bahrain's Hot, Sunny Climate

Bahrain's long, hot summers, strong sunshine and humid air shape how our skin feels from day to day. Add the hours spent in air-conditioned homes, cars and offices, and skin can swing between feeling sweaty and oily outdoors and tight or dry indoors. The good news is that a simple, consistent routine usually goes further than a complicated one. This guide covers the basics, and when it is worth getting a professional opinion.

Cleanse gently, not harshly

Heat and humidity mean more sweat, and it can be tempting to wash often with strong products. However, over-cleansing can strip the skin of its natural oils and leave it irritated. A few simple habits help:

• Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser with lukewarm rather than hot water.
• Wash your face in the morning and evening, and after heavy sweating, such as after exercise.
• Pat your skin dry with a clean towel instead of rubbing.
• Avoid scrubbing hard, as rough washcloths and harsh scrubs can aggravate sensitive skin.

Moisturise, even when it feels humid

Moisturising may seem unnecessary in humid weather, but air-conditioning dries the air indoors, and moving back and forth between hot outdoor air and cool indoor air can leave skin feeling tight or flaky. Applying a moisturiser to slightly damp skin after washing helps hold water in the skin. If you are prone to breakouts, look for products labelled non-comedogenic or oil-free, and ask a pharmacist if you are unsure what suits your skin type.

Make sun protection a daily habit

The World Health Organization notes that too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can cause sunburn, contributes to premature skin ageing and increases the risk of skin cancer. UV levels are usually highest around the middle of the day, and in a sunny country like Bahrain they can be high for much of the year, not only in summer.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is one part of sun protection, not the whole of it. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends a broad-spectrum sunscreen, meaning one that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, with an SPF of 30 or higher and water resistance. Useful habits include:

• Apply enough to cover all exposed skin, including easily missed areas such as the ears, neck, backs of the hands and tops of the feet.
• Apply it before going outside, following the timing on the product label.
• Reapply regularly. The AAD advises reapplying about every two hours, and after swimming or sweating, or as directed on the label.
• Check the expiry date, and avoid leaving sunscreen in a hot car for long periods, as heat can affect many products.

Shade, clothing and hats

Physical protection works alongside sunscreen:

• Seek shade, especially around midday when the sun is strongest.
• Wear lightweight, loose clothing that covers your arms and legs where practical.
• Choose a wide-brimmed hat that shades the face, ears and neck.
• Wear sunglasses that block UV rays to protect your eyes.

Sand, water and pale surfaces reflect sunlight, so you can still burn under an umbrella at the beach. Babies and young children need extra care in the sun, so ask a pharmacist or doctor how to protect very young skin.

Try new products carefully

Even gentle products can occasionally cause irritation or an allergic reaction. The AAD suggests testing a new skin care product before using it widely. A common approach is to apply a small amount to a small patch of skin, such as the inner forearm, for several days, and to stop using it if redness, itching, swelling or a rash appears. Introducing one new product at a time also makes it easier to tell which one is responsible if your skin reacts. Always follow the directions on the label.

When to see a doctor

Checking your skin from time to time, including areas you cannot easily see, helps you notice changes early. If something looks unusual or you are worried, it is always reasonable to have it checked.

If you have questions about sun protection or everyday skin care products, the team at AJ Pharmacy is happy to help. Ask us in store, call +973 3366 8480 or message us on WhatsApp. You can find more practical guides in our health insights, including everyday personal care habits.