Jacksonville’s humid subtropical climate makes it a popular spot for a vacation, but it comes with challenges for skin health. Hot summer months are also high in humidity, which causes people to sweat a lot more. A result of this increased sweat and oil production can be clogged pores, breakouts, and a greater risk of heat rashes. Furthermore, Jacksonville summers have a high UV index, so regular sun exposure can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
While the summers are hot and humid, the winters are more mild. The changes in the weather from season to season, while subtle, can affect skin health in myriad ways. The lower humidity level draws moisture from the skin, causing dryness. During these cooler months, using a hydrating moisturizer can go a long way.
Seasonal changes in pollen and other allergens in Jacksonville can irritate the skin or trigger eczema flare-ups, especially during the spring and fall months. It’s important to keep up a regular skincare routine, with a special emphasis on hydration, sun protection, and gentle cleansing. In these ways, you can maintain healthy, resilient skin, regardless of Jacksonville’s varied climate.
The city of Jacksonville has a high UV index, especially in the summer months, making it critically important to protect your skin from the damaging effects of UV rays. Staying out in the sun in Jacksonville, even for short periods of time, can lead to significant UV exposure. UV rays are strongest during midday hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and especially on clear, sunny days. These rays can penetrate the skin and contribute to a range of problems, including sunburn, premature aging, dark spots, and a higher risk of skin cancer.
When you spend time in the Jacksonville sun, it’s critical to take precautions to protect the health of your skin. Most dermatologists recommend using broad-spectrum sunscreen (protecting against UVA and UVB, the two types of UV radiation). It’s important to use SPF 30 or higher and be sure to reapply it every two hours, especially if you’ve been sweating or swimming. Beyond sunscreen, protective clothing is an absolute must. Some smart clothing options include: wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses with UV protection, lightweight long sleeves. You should also try to avoid direct sunlight during those peak midday hours.
Practicing sun safety, such as seeking shade and wearing sunscreen, helps prevent UV-related skin damage in Jacksonville’s sunny climate.
In Jacksonville, whether you need a referral to see a dermatologist entirely depends on your health insurance. Some plans, such as Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), do require a referral from a primary care physician for you to go see a specialist–including dermatologists. Some Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs) and other private plans, however, let you make an appointment directly with a specialist, no referral needed. Before trying to make an appointment, check with your insurance provider. That said, if you intend to pay out of pocket, no referral is needed.