Summer Skin Care Tips for People with Lymphedema

Summer brings longer days, outdoor activities, vacations, and more time spent in the sun. While many people look forward to warmer weather, summer can present unique challenges for individuals living with lymphedema.

Heat, humidity, sun exposure, insect bites, and changes in routine may all affect swelling and skin health. Because healthy skin plays an important role in lymphedema management, taking extra precautions during the summer months can help you stay comfortable and reduce the risk of complications.

Here are several summer skin care tips to help support healthy skin and manage lymphedema throughout the season.

Why Summer Can Be Challenging for Lymphedema

Many people with lymphedema notice that their symptoms may worsen during hot weather. Heat can cause blood vessels to expand, which may contribute to increased fluid accumulation and swelling in affected areas.

Summer activities can also increase exposure to common lymphedema triggers, including:

• Excessive heat
• Sunburn
• Insect bites
• Cuts and scrapes
• Dehydration
• Prolonged standing or sitting

Understanding these potential triggers can help you plan ahead and protect your skin.

Stay Cool Whenever Possible

High temperatures may increase swelling and discomfort for some individuals with lymphedema.

During periods of extreme heat, try to:

• Spend time in air-conditioned spaces when possible
• Limit prolonged outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day
• Take breaks in shaded areas
• Use fans or cooling towels when outdoors
• Avoid overheating during exercise

If you notice increased swelling during hot weather, moving to a cooler environment may help improve comfort.

Protect Your Skin from the Sun

Sunburn can damage the skin and increase the risk of complications, including infection.

When spending time outdoors:

• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher
• Reapply sunscreen regularly, especially after swimming or sweating
• Wear lightweight, protective clothing
• Seek shade whenever possible
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors

Even mild sunburn can irritate already sensitive skin, making sun protection especially important.

Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration is important year-round, but it becomes even more important during the summer months.

Drinking enough water helps support overall health and may help your body function more efficiently during hot weather.

Consider these hydration tips:

• Carry a reusable water bottle
• Drink water throughout the day rather than waiting until you feel thirsty
• Increase fluid intake during outdoor activities
• Limit excessive alcohol consumption, which can contribute to dehydration

Staying hydrated can help support your overall wellness during periods of increased heat.

Protect Against Insect Bites and Skin Injuries

Summer often means spending more time outdoors, which may increase exposure to bug bites, scratches, and minor injuries.

Because skin injuries can increase the risk of infection, taking preventative measures is important.

Consider the following:

• Use insect repellent when outdoors
• Wear gloves while gardening
• Avoid walking barefoot outside
• Treat cuts and scrapes promptly
• Keep skin clean and moisturized

Even small injuries should be monitored closely for signs of infection.

Continue Wearing Compression Garments as Recommended

Many people find compression garments less comfortable during hot weather, but maintaining your prescribed compression routine remains an important part of lymphedema management.

To stay comfortable during summer:

• Choose lightweight clothing when possible
• Ask your healthcare provider about garment options designed for warmer climates
• Keep a second garment available while washing another
• Follow manufacturer instructions for proper garment care

If heat makes compression difficult, speak with your healthcare provider before making changes to your treatment plan.

Take Extra Care While Traveling

Summer is a popular travel season, and trips often involve prolonged sitting, heat exposure, and changes in routine.

When traveling:

• Wear compression garments if recommended by your healthcare provider
• Stay hydrated during flights and road trips
• Take movement breaks regularly
• Avoid carrying heavy luggage on affected limbs
• Pack extra skin care and compression supplies

Planning ahead can help make summer travel more comfortable.

Moisturize Daily

Hot weather, swimming, sun exposure, and air conditioning can all contribute to dry skin.

Keeping skin moisturized helps maintain the skin barrier and may reduce the risk of cracks and irritation.

Look for moisturizers that:

• Are fragrance-free when possible
• Provide long-lasting hydration
• Are gentle on sensitive skin

Apply moisturizer daily, especially after bathing.

Know the Signs of Infection

People living with lymphedema should be aware of symptoms that may indicate infection.

Contact your healthcare provider promptly if you notice:

• Increased redness
• Warmth in the affected area
• Rapid increases in swelling
• Pain or tenderness
• Fever or chills
• Red streaking on the skin

Early treatment is important to help prevent complications.

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