Playing in the sand, swimming, or simply enjoying the sunset at the beach is indeed very enjoyable. Yet, have you experienced the post-beach itch? The condition where all over your body developed a rash and felt scratchy? Ever wondered about its causes?

Causes of After Beach Itch

There are several factors that can cause itching after playing or swimming at the beach, including:

1. Marine Parasites

In ponds, lakes, rivers and sometimes sea water, there are larvae of parasites released by infected snails. These parasite larvae are quite microscopic, making them difficult to see with our naked eye.

Actually, these parasites prefer to infect birds or other mammals as hosts rather than infecting humans. However, sometimes these parasites will come in contact with humans while swimming at the beach. 

The parasites then penetrate the skin surface and cause allergic reactions such as itching. This reaction can occur within minutes to several days after playing at the beach.

Itching due to marine parasites is known as swimmer’s itch. In medical terms, it is called cercarial dermatitis. Here are the symptoms that generally appear when you have swimmer’s itch:

• Burning, itching, and numbness of the skin.
• Small red spots appear within 12 hours after infection.
• The spots may turn into small blisters.

You don't need to panic when experiencing this. Because this allergic reaction generally does not require medical help to treat it.

To relieve the symptoms, you can do the following:

• Apply corticosteroid cream.
• Compress the affected area with ice or a cold cloth.
• Bathe with Epsom salt or baking soda.
• Soak in colloidal oatmeal water.
• Apply baking soda paste to the rash.
• Apply anti-itch lotion.
• Avoid scratching to prevent further infection.

2. Sun Allergy

Some of you may thoroughly enjoy sunbathing at the beach. However, some individuals may experience itching when doing so. 

This type of after beach itching is actually an allergic reaction to excessive sun exposure, medically known as solar urticaria. 

Here are the itching symptoms that usually occur in someone experiencing sun allergy:

• Hives.
• Stinging sensation.
• Burning sensation.

3. Sunscreen or Lotion Allergy

Sunscreen and lotion may contain ingredients that cause allergies when exposed to sunlight. The substance typically responsible for allergies is para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA). 

In this case, itching usually manifests with other symptoms:

• Bumps.
• Blisters.
• Scaly skin.
• Bleeding skin.
• Skin discomfort.

4. Wetsuit Allergy

When engaging in diving activities, wearing a wetsuit is necessary to protect your body. However, under certain conditions, you may notice red bumps occur on the skin. 

This is typically caused by a bacterial infection called Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which grows on neoprene fabric (scuba fabric), the main material used in wetsuits. 

Individuals with autoimmune diseases such as cystic fibrosis are generally more susceptible to this bacterial infection.

5. Dry Skin

Spending time at the beach can cause your skin to become drier, making you more prone to itching. To avoid this, make sure to always wear sunscreen when going to the beach (avoid those containing PABA). 

To avoid worser dry skin, immediately after playing at the beach and engaging in other activities, you have to rinse your body. 

Make sure to use a mild soap. Avoid using antibacterial soaps as they can further dry out your skin. 

After showering, apply lotion immediately, preferably within 5 minutes. For best results, choose a fragrance-free lotion. 

Now you know what causes the after-beach itch and how to effectively treat it. Although most itching that occurs after playing at the beach can be self-treated, you still need to monitor the progression of symptoms. 

If the itching persists, worsens, or becomes very uncomfortable, do not hesitate to consult a doctor. 

When this happens while you are in Bali and need to consult a doctor, Bali International Hospital is one of the best options. Located in the heart of The Sanur, the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) for Health, it is easily accessible from all parts of Bali. 

Bali International Hospital is equipped with cutting-edge medical technology, a team of internationally renowned doctors, and commitment to provide comprehensive examinations. 

Thus, the accuracy of the diagnosis and treatment provided is guaranteed. You can walk in the Emergency Room for immediate treatment.