Common problems and how to care for your skin after exposure to flood water

Contact dermatitis, fungal infections or bacterial skin infections are common skin problems caused by wading in dirty water or humid environments.

You should clean your skin with clean water and use a moisturizer immediately after contact with flood water. (Source: VNA)

The rainy season not only causes damage to property and the living environment but also brings many potential risks to skin health.

Contact dermatitis due to dirty water

When the skin is exposed to water sources containing waste, chemicals and microorganisms for a long time, the risk of contact dermatitis increases. This condition often manifests itself through redness, itching, peeling or even blisters.

According to dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner (Mount Sinai Hospital, USA), floodwater often carries many irritants and bacteria, causing the skin's protective barrier to weaken rapidly.

He recommends washing the skin with clean water immediately after exposure and using a restorative moisturizer.

Fungal skin infections

High humidity and prolonged exposure to water create favorable conditions for fungal growth, especially between the toes and other areas of skin that are frequently rubbed. The patient may experience intense itching, flaking or cracking of the skin.

Dr. Shari Lipner (Weill Cornell Medical College, USA) emphasized that fungal infections after floods are very common and, if not treated early, can lead to serious skin ulcers.

Skin and soft tissue infections

One of the most worrying risks when wading in floodwaters is skin infections, including Aeromonas or Streptococcus bacteria. These bacteria can enter through small scratches, causing swelling, pus or even sepsis.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), soft tissue infections after natural disasters often progress rapidly and require prompt examination and antibiotic treatment.

Eczema and chronic skin flare-ups

People with existing skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or atopic dermatitis are more likely to experience flare-ups after exposure to humid, polluted environments. Experts warn that, in addition to irritants, stress and lack of skin care during floods can also contribute to worsening the condition.

Skin care recommendations after wading through floodwaters

International doctors advise that the most important thing is to quickly clean the skin after contact with floodwater. Dr. Michele Green (New York Dermatology Center, USA) recommends washing the whole body with mild soap and clean water, then drying with a soft towel to limit bacterial growth.

People with open wounds need to disinfect with antiseptic solution and cover with bandage before exposure to humid environment. In addition, keeping the skin dry with clean clothes, avoiding wearing damp clothes for a long time, combined with the use of moisturizing cream will help the skin maintain its natural protective barrier.

In case of unusual symptoms such as swelling, redness, discharge, fever, people need to go to a medical facility for timely examination and treatment.

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