Devotees hear First Friday mass at Quiapo Church in Manila on March 7, 2025. Jonathan Cellona, ABS-CBN News

As many Filipinos head outdoors to enjoy the sunny weather, skin diseases brought on by the dry season and extreme heat threaten to spoil the fun. To stay safe, it’s important to know how to prevent and treat these conditions.

Common skin diseases include bacterial infection, prickly heat or heat rashes, dermatitis and scabies. Some of these skin problems begin with dryness or itchiness worsened by heat. 

"Once your skin is dry, hindi siya moisturized, [due to heat], mas prone siya to skin diseases," said Frances Ordonez, a doctor at the Quezon City Health Department.

Skin diseases, like heat rashes caused by the worsening hot weather, are more commonly observed in young children. But Ordonez noted that such diseases could affect even adults. 

Adding to the problem, there is only one dermatologist for every 100,000 Filipinos, according to a review by the Philippine Dermatological Society, highlighting a shortage of skin experts in the country.

Apart from the heat, other causes of skin problems are dust, pets and allergens, Ordonez said.

Dry season to reach peak in May: PAGASA

Ordonez said hygiene could be a game-changer in addressing these health risks.  

“May mga over-the-counter skincare [products] like moisturizers that keep the hydration of your skin,” she said.

Skin hydration, skin care and self-awareness also play major roles in both preventing and treating skin problems. 

“‘Pag ganito kasing summer, usually, nagda-dry ang skin mo, ang [way] na ma-prevent mo ang skin diseases is to make sure your skin is hydrated,” she suggested. “May mga skincare na pwede mong gamitin like lotions, ointments.” 

Ordonez reminded the public that not all skin diseases are communicable or contagious, unless they are due to bacterial infections. 

When skin irritation or disease persists, community health centers are open to accommodate consultations, Ordonez said, adding that local government are also active in organizing skin health-related lectures and programs. 

The Department of Health (DOH) has cautioned the public of the different health-related risks like skin diseases caused by the extreme heat, recommending hydration and personal precautions from excessive heat or prolonged sun exposure.

READ: DOH warns of health risks as PAGASA declares start of dry season