Our tropical climate can bring skin challenges like heat rashes, fungal infections, and sun damage. Learn how to prevent and manage the most common local skin issues.
Living in paradise has its perks, but for your skin, the heat, humidity, and sun exposure can stir up a unique set of challenges. From sun damage to fungal infections, certain skin conditions are more common in tropical environments like The Bahamas.
Knowing what to look for, and how to treat or prevent these conditions, can help you stay comfortable and confident year-round.
🌞 Sunburn and Long-Term Sun Damage
Even a short time in the sun without protection can lead to sunburn, and repeated exposure raises the risk of premature aging and skin cancer. UV rays are especially strong near the equator, meaning your skin may be absorbing more than you realize.
đź‘€ What to watch for: Redness, peeling, tenderness, or new dark spots that appear after sun exposure.
💡 Pro tip: Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every day, especially on your face, neck, and arms. Reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors or sweating.
🌡️ Heat Rash (Prickly Heat)
This common rash happens when sweat ducts get blocked, trapping moisture under the skin. It shows up as tiny red bumps, especially in skin folds or under tight clothing.
đź’¬ Sound familiar? You get itchy or prickly skin after a workout or hot afternoon outside.
đź’ˇ Pro tip: Wear loose, breathable clothing and shower immediately after sweating. Keep affected areas dry and cool to prevent further irritation.
🍄 Fungal Infections (Ringworm, Athlete’s Foot, Yeast)
Warm, moist environments make it easier for fungi to thrive, especially in feet, groin, underarms, or under breasts. These infections can cause redness, scaling, or itchy patches.
👀 What to watch for: Scaly rings on the skin, peeling between toes, or itchy rashes that don’t go away with lotion.
đź’ˇ Pro tip: Keep your skin dry and clean, especially after swimming or sweating. Antifungal creams or powders can help, but persistent symptoms may need a prescription.
🦟 Bug Bites and Allergic Reactions
Mosquitoes, sand flies, and other insects are active year-round in tropical climates. For some, bites can cause significant swelling or allergic skin responses.
đź’¬ Sound familiar? You scratch bug bites until they scar, or you react more than others to the same exposure.
đź’ˇ Pro tip: Use insect repellent when outdoors, and treat bites with hydrocortisone cream or antihistamines. If swelling is extreme, a healthcare provider can help manage the reaction.
🌬️ Eczema and Contact Dermatitis
Sweat, salt, chlorine, or new skincare products can trigger flare-ups of eczema or cause contact dermatitis — an itchy, inflamed skin reaction. These often appear on the neck, hands, or areas exposed to irritants.
đź‘€ What to watch for: Dry, cracked, or inflamed skin, especially after swimming, using scented products, or doing chores.
đź’ˇ Pro tip: Choose fragrance-free, hypoallergenic skincare products and moisturize daily with a thick cream. Avoid triggers once identified.
The More You Know, the Better Your Skin Can Feel
Tropical life requires tropical skin care. Whether you’re dealing with a stubborn rash, recurring fungal infection, or sun-damaged spots, knowing what’s normal — and what’s not — can keep your skin healthier for the long run.
We offer comprehensive skin consultations, treatment plans, and guidance tailored to The Bahamas’ climate and lifestyle.
đź“ž Call (242) 702-9310 to book a skin health visit with Dermatologist Dr. Rokeisha Clare-Kleinbussink.