Your Essential Summer Skin Survival Guide: Beating Itch, Fungus, & Flies

Summer may be the season of sunshine and long trail rides, but for horses, the associated heat and humidity can bring an uptick in frustrating skin issues. From persistent itching and fungal infections to bacterial hotspots and insect-related irritations, these minor flare-ups can quickly become larger, more painful problems if left untreated. 

That’s why a proactive approach is the key to a stress-free summer. It’s crucial to stock your grooming kit with essential products that soothe, heal, and protect. Let’s break down four essentials to anchor your summer skin defense toolkit. 

The Medicated Deep Clean: EquiShield CK Shampoo

This medicated shampoo is formulated with the powerful antibacterial and antifungal duo of chlorhexidine and ketoconazole. It is specifically designed to help with common issues like rain rot, girth itch, cannon crud, and fungal dermatitis, while its therapeutic lather soothes irritation and promotes healing.

Best for:

• Horses prone to sweat-induced fungus and scald
• Treating active flare-ups of rain rot or greasy heel
• Weekly preventive wash during humid months

The Targeted Treatment: EquiShield CK Salve

This salve is the ideal follow-up to the medicated shampoo, offering a targeted solution for stubborn trouble spots. It uses the same potent combination of chlorhexidine and ketoconazole, but suspends them in a thick, protective base. This moisture-shielding formula clings to the skin, creating a barrier that keeps the active ingredients locked in and contaminants out. Simultaneously, healing agents like aloe vera and vitamin E calm inflammation and encourage recovery.

Best for:

• Treating pastern dermatitis
• Soothing scabs from insect bites
• Targeting small patches of crusty skin and hair loss

The Sensitive Skin Savior: Banixx Horse and Pet Care Spray

This spray offers fast-acting antimicrobial relief without the sting or odor, making it the go-to solution for sensitive horses. Because the formula is pH-balanced and non-toxic, it’s an exceptionally gentle yet effective choice for open wounds, hot spots, fungal infections, and even ear infections.

Best for:

• General skin maintenance
• First aid for minor cuts, abrasions, and skin funk
• Treating horses who are sensitive to stings and odors

The Protective Shield: EquiShield IR Spray

This dual-action spray delivers a one-two punch, combining the repellent power of permethrin with skin-soothing aloe and lanolin. It repels flies, ticks, mosquitoes, and gnats while also nourishing the skin to prevent the irritation cycle leading to tail rubbing.

Best for:

• Horses prone to sweet itch or insect bite hypersensitivity
• Guarding the vulnerable midline and belly from dermatitis
• Essential daily defense during peak bug season

Don't Wait for Skin Problems to Spread

Summer skin issues often start small– but can escalate fast! A proactive care routine with the right products makes all the difference. Whether your horse is battling pesky bugs, funky fungus, or an angry hot spot, keeping these four essentials in your tack room will keep their skin healthy, happy, and itch-free.