Managing Common Skin Conditions in South Florida: The Forever Summer Guide

Whether the calendar says January or July, stepping outside in Delray Beach or Wellington often feels the same. Warm, sunny, and humid. In Palm Beach County, we do not experience a true winter. We live in what feels like a forever summer. While this lifestyle is the reason many of us call Florida home, it creates a unique set of challenges for our skin, which is also our largest organ.

The sun remains a constant, aggressive force. Furthermore, subtle environmental shifts, like a sudden explosion of pollen or a drop in humidity, can trigger common skin conditions in South Florida that many patients misdiagnose. At Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery Institute (DCSI), Dr. Mounir M. Wassef and our team specialize in treating the specific skin issues that thrive in our subtropical climate. Learn more about our patient-first philosophy on our about us page.

The Sun Doesn't Sleep: Year-Round UV Risks

The most dangerous myth in Florida is that you can skip sunscreen during the cooler months or when clouds roll in. In our region, the UV index remains high enough to damage your DNA 365 days a year. Even on overcast days, UVA rays, the ones responsible for aging and skin cancer, penetrate through clouds and car windows. This constant exposure is a primary driver of many skin conditions, specifically precancerous changes that many locals ignore until it is too late.

You do not need to be at the beach to sustain damage. We frequently see significant sun damage on the left side of the face in patients who commute from Boynton Beach or Loxahatchee. This cumulative exposure often leads to rough, scaly patches. These spots feel like sandpaper and are not simply dry skin. They are often actinic keratosis, a precancerous lesion that can progress to squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated. If you notice a spot that is red, scaly, or refuses to heal, it is vital to seek actinic keratosis treatment immediately. Early intervention, often with cryotherapy or topical field therapy, can prevent these lesions from becoming dangerous.

For our avid boaters and golfers, knowing what squamous cell carcinoma early signs are is critical. Look for persistent, scaly red patches or open sores that bleed and crust. To protect yourself, using the best sunscreen for Florida sun is non-negotiable. We recommend a broad-spectrum mineral formula with an SPF of 30 or higher, applied daily.

If you have any concerns about spots on your skin, our team offers specialized care, including Mohs surgery, to ensure the highest cure rates. You can also read more about protecting your skin in our educational sunscreen guide. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, consistent sun protection is the most effective way to lower your risk of skin cancer.¹

The Hidden Itch: Pollen and Common Skin Conditions in South Florida

Many locals know when allergy season hits because their cars in Wellington are covered in a fine yellow dust. However, few realize that pollen can affect the skin just as much as the sinuses. The high pollen counts from oak and grass, particularly in the western communities, contribute significantly to various skin conditions throughout the year.

Pollen is microscopic and lands on exposed areas like the face, neck, and hands. This can lead to airborne contact dermatitis, a condition where the skin becomes red, itchy, and inflamed due to direct contact with allergens. 

Patients often confuse pollen rash symptoms with eczema or a reaction to a new skincare product when the culprit is actually the environment. A frequent but often overlooked symptom is itchy eyelids. If you are searching for itchy eyelids, consider that pollen may be settling on the thin, sensitive skin around your eyes.

This issue is particularly prevalent for residents near green spaces in Loxahatchee and Wellington, where oak pollen skin allergy flare-ups are common. The best defense is to wash your face immediately after spending time outdoors to remove the allergens. If the rash persists, our medical dermatology team can prescribe topical treatments to provide relief and restore your skin barrier.

Humidity Versus Dryness: The Florida Paradox

Our climate oscillates between two extremes. The intense humidity of the outdoors and the dry, cool air of indoor air conditioning. This rapid shift creates a confused state for your skin barrier. Understanding how this rapid shift impacts your skin is key to maintaining a healthy barrier.

When the humidity spikes, sweat gets trapped against the skin. This creates a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. We often treat patients for tinea versicolor, a fungal infection that appears as white, pink, or brown spots that will not tan. Effective tinea versicolor treatment requires antifungal medication to clear the yeast overgrowth.

For our active patients, especially equestrians and athletes, sweat trapped under helmets or gear can cause friction-induced breakouts. When comparing acne mechanica vs. heat rash, distinguishing between the two is important. The former requires exfoliation with salicylic acid, while the latter needs cooling and soothing.

Conversely, the constant use of air conditioning sucks moisture out of the air. This leads to dry skin in humid weather. This A/C effect can cause flare-ups of eczema even when it is 80 degrees outside. It is also important to note that heat is one of the most common rosacea triggers. The transition from a hot patio to a cold room can cause facial flushing and visible blood vessels for those prone to the condition.

You can learn more about managing these issues on our skin conditions page. Additionally, while the ocean breeze is refreshing, salt can be drying. Read about the effects of the ocean on our saltwater benefits blog.

Local Care for Local Lifestyles

DCSI proudly maintains two state-of-the-art facilities in Wellington and Delray Beach. However, our patient base extends across all of Palm Beach County. We tailor our care to match the specific environmental risks of the communities we serve.

• Wellington: The equestrian lifestyle involves long hours in the sun and dust. If you need a Dermatologist in Wellington, Florida, our primary office is perfectly situated to handle the specific skin challenges riders face.² Visit our Wellington location page for details.
• Delray Beach & Boynton Beach: The coastal lifestyle increases exposure to reflected UV rays. We provide comprehensive skin cancer screening that Delray Beach residents trust. Furthermore, for those seeking a Boynton Beach skin cancer specialist, our Delray office is just a short drive away, offering expert surgical care for the coastal community. Visit our Delray location page.
• Boca Raton: Many patients travel to us for Dr. Wassef's expertise in anti-aging. If you are looking for Boca Raton cosmetic dermatology solutions, our nearby Delray clinic offers advanced lasers and injectables to reverse sun damage. Explore our cosmetic services to see how we can help.
• Loxahatchee: Living closer to nature means exposure to specific plants and insects. We regularly treat patients from the western communities who need targeted Loxahatchee skin rash treatment for environmental irritants at our Wellington office.

Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Skin Care

Do I really need sunscreen in the winter months here? 

Yes. The UV index in South Florida remains high enough to cause damage year-round. Consistent protection with sunscreen is vital for preventing long-term issues.

Can pollen cause a rash on my face? 

Absolutely. Airborne pollen can land on your skin and cause redness and itching on your face, particularly on the eyelids and neck.

What are the most common skin conditions in South Florida that look like sun spots? 

Actinic keratosis (rough, precancerous patches) and tinea versicolor (fungal yeast spots) are common skin conditions that are frequently mistaken for simple sun spots.

Your Partner in South Florida Skin Health

Living in our forever summer environment is a privilege, but it requires vigilance. Whether you are dealing with the effects of the sun, pollen, or humidity, understanding the various skin conditions is the first step toward healthy skin. Your skin works hard to protect you from the elements, and we are here to return the favor.

Do not guess about your skin health. Contact our team today to schedule your exam at either our Wellington or Delray Beach office. We welcome new patients and invite you to request an appointment at a time that works for you. You can also stay updated on the latest practice updates by visiting our news and press section. Find a location near you and let us help you enjoy the Florida lifestyle with confidence.